Ajwain or carom is a seed that tastes strong and smells bitter. It is like cumin and fennel seeds. It is a common spice in Indian households. It is used to boost the flavor and taste of food. Generally, in bread and biscuits, Ajwain is sprinkled for taste and aroma. It has rich fiber content, good amounts of vitamins and minerals, and antioxidant properties. It is very good for digestion because of the presence of digestive fibres. Ajwain can be consumed raw by chewing, or by consuming it by adding to water or tea. Ajwain water is fed to children who suffer from stomach problems. It eases the digestive system and releases flatulence. This is a yellow-colored, oval-shaped shrub. Let us see the some key health benefits of Ajwain.
Important chemical compounds present in ajwain
Ajwain seeds and their oil consist of 20 bioactive compounds such as p-cymene, thymol, gamma-terpinene, terpenoids, and essential oil. Thymol and Carvacrol are known for their antifungal and antibacterial property. These thus help in preventing the growth of bacteria and fungi.
One teaspoon i.e a single serving of ajwain comprises 1 gram of carbohydrates, 1 gram of fiber, and less than 1 gram of fats and protein. It contains 0 grams of sugar and has potassium, calcium, and iron. Due to these above nutritional elements there are numerous ajwain benefits.
Controls cholesterol
Consuming Ajwain regularly leads to gradual weight loss so that you can ultimately drop your cholesterol and triglyceride levels in the body. A higher amount of cholesterol leads to many cardiac issues. Ajwain does not only decrease LDL but also improves good cholesterol, i.e. HDL levels in the body. So, it controls body weight by reducing cholesterol.
Ajwain is a rich source of fibre, carbs, fats, and protein. Sodium, potassium, thiamine, phosphorus, calcium, and niacin are rich in Ajwain. So, this is a nutritive seed.
Prevents infections
Carvacrol and thymol are the two active elements in Ajwain. These two compounds in ajwain benefits by preventing the growth of bacteria and fungi. They work against food poisoning bacteria such as Escherichia coli (E.coli) & salmonella. Hence regular consumption of Ajwain keeps you away from all such dreadful infections. So you can keep any kind of infection at bay. It even prevents you from eye infections like conjunctivitis. It is the best anti-bacterial and anti-fungus component.
Cures respiratory issues
Ajwain helps to keep the lungs clean so that there will not be any occurrence of blockage. This effect is known to be a bronchodilatory effect. It effectively treats persons who suffer from asthma. It makes breathing easy by relaxing the air passageway in the lungs. Chewing Ajwain, particularly during the rainy season helps asthma patients to keep away from severe wheezes.
Helps in relieving pain
People who suffer from Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) may consume Ajwain water daily to get relieved from the painful condition. They can gradually see improvements in swelling and pain. Its anti-inflammatory properties reduce chronic inflammation and lower the release of elastase enzyme which plays a main role in inflammation.
Helps in menstruation
According to a study, its anesthetic and anti-inflammatory properties induce a regular menstrual cycle. Also, Ajwain benefits by helping in relieving abdominal pain and cramps during the menstruation cycle.
Stops greying hair
Some studies suggest that Ajwain improves cell reinforcement and nutrition content of the elements like calcium, and iron. Thus, it prevents premature greying of hair and also makes the hair hale and healthy.
Prevents acne
The presence of different antioxidants and anti-inflammatory components helps in reducing skin irritation, and acne. Carvacrol and thymol elements in Ajwain seeds fight against bacterial growth. Applying Ajwain powder lightens up the acne scars. Using Ajwain extract Methoxsalen drug is prepared. This drug helps to treat skin problems such as vitiligo and psoriasis. It is available in the form of topical cream and capsules in the drug market.
Ajwain water is a good mouth wash as it completely kills bacteria. It helps to maintain good oral hygiene. This water resolves digestion problems among pregnant women and cleanses the stomach and uterus, which in turn solves irregular menstruation problems. Drinking Ajwain water improves metabolism rate which in turn burns body fat. Even the combination of Ajwain and ginger extract helps to relieve bronchitis and asthma problems. Studies suggest that Ajwain water has the capacity of relieving cough by producing a compound that is greater than the anti-coughing agent codeine. During common colds, it prevents nasal blockage and helps in discharging mucus easily. Ajwain water is used to wash any cuts, wounds, and injuries. The antibiotic property heals the wounds, cuts, and treats infections. Hence the health benefits of Ajwain are many.
Interactions of Ajwain
Sometimes Ajwain can slow down the blood clotting. When you are on blood thinner medications, you should be cautious while consuming Ajwain. Aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, and warfarin are some of the blood thinner medicines.
It also interferes with medicines that get broken down in the liver. Drugs like ketoconazole, itraconazole, and lovastatin are broken down in the liver. If you are taking these medicines please consult the doctor before taking Ajwain.
Take away
Ajwain seeds have been used in our dishes for ages. They have been used in ayurvedic medicines and cooking. Its anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties make it an herb for treating diseases. Ajwain is also used in the preparation of lotions, and ointments used for skin treatments. . Ajwain seeds and Ajwain water helps to boost your immunity and keeps you disease-free.
