Cumin Seeds(Jeera)

Cumin, also known as 'jeera' in India, is a widely used ingredient in Indian cuisines. It is referred to as the dried seed of 'Cuminum cyminum' that belongs to the parsley family. Cumin seeds are derived from the plant of cumin, a herbaceous annual plant, that has slender branched stems about 30 cm tall. Cumin seeds are a popular form of spice that are known for their aroma and are used in Indian, Pakistani, Cuban Mexican cuisine, etc. Some of the major market players of cumin seeds are Iran, India, Syria, Pakistan and Turkey.

Cumin tastes strongly aromatic, tart, bitter and penetrating but is also slightly sweet and earthy. Despite the similarity between its appearance and that of caraway, cumin tastes entirely different. The fruits contain up to four percent essential oil.

Cumin seeds are a very good source of relieving digestive disorders. They are largely helpful in curing indigestion, nausea, diarrhea, etc. As the seeds of cumin are rich in antiseptic properties, they also help in reliving common cold. Research has also found the presence of anti-carcinogenic properties in cumin seeds that help in preventing stomach or liver tumors. Cumin seeds are also a rich source of iron, a vital nutrient that helps in keeping the immune system healthy and strong.