Cumin is the dried seed of the herb Cuminum cyminum, a member of the parsley family. Cumin seed is used as a spice for its distinctive flavor and aroma. It is globally popular and an essential flavoring in many cuisines, particularly South Asian (where it is called Jeera (Cumin), Northern African, and Latin American cuisines. Cumin can be found in some cheeses, such as Leyden cheese, and in some traditional bread from France. Cumin can be used ground or as whole seeds. It imparts an earthy, warming and aromatic character to food, making it a staple in certain stews and soups, as well as spiced gravies such as curry and chilies.
In Sanskrit, cumin is known as jiraka “that which helps digestion". In traditional medicine practices of several countries, dried cumin seeds are believed to have medicinal purposes.

Cumin is the dried seed of the herb Cuminum cyminum, a member of the parsley family. Cumin seed is used as a spice for its distinctive flavor and aroma. It is globally popular and an essential flavoring in many cuisines, particularly South Asian (where it is called Jeera (Cumin), Northern African, and Latin American cuisines. Cumin can be found in some cheeses, such as Leyden cheese, and in some traditional bread from France. Cumin can be used ground or as whole seeds. It imparts an earthy, warming and aromatic character to food, making it a staple in certain stews and soups, as well as spiced gravies such as curry and chilies.
In Sanskrit, cumin is known as jiraka “that which helps digestion". In traditional medicine practices of several countries, dried cumin seeds are believed to have medicinal purposes.