Ajwain: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, and More!
- Author :
- TATA AIG Team
- ●
- Last Updated On :
- 10/06/2024
Ajwain, also known as carom seeds and bishop’s weed, is a herb widely used in the field of medicine. Ajwain is also used in Indian food, thanks to its medicinal benefits and the ability to add strong flavour to dishes.
People often confuse ajwain with cumin seeds, but it is important to note that its uses and benefits are quite different from them.
So, to help you get complete knowledge about this classic regional Indian spice, we present this blog which is going to cover Ajwain benefits, the ways to use it, and the side effects it can cause if you use it excessively.
What Is Ajwain?
Ajwain is an ancient medical herb and a famous Indian spice which is very small in size. The Ajwain plant is very aromatic and is grown once every year and grows up to 2 feet.
There are two main parts of this plant (leaves and seeds) that humans use for culinary and healing purposes. Its leaves and seeds provide many benefits to human health and can do wonders if used correctly.
Besides having different names in different regions, Ajwain is also called “a powerful cleanser” due to its detoxifying properties.
Biological Name | Trachyspermum ammi |
---|---|
Family | Apiaceae or Umbelliferae |
Origin | Middle-East |
Major Places of Cultivation in India | Gujarat and Rajasthan |
Other Names | Ajowan Caraway, Oman (in Tamil), Bishop’s Weed, and Thymol Seeds |
Parts that Can Be Used | Leaves and Seeds |
Ajwain Nutrition
Nutrient | Value Per 100 G |
---|---|
Protein | 17.1 g |
Minerals | 7.9 g |
Carbohydrates | 24.6 g |
Energy | 363 kcal |
Phosphorous | 443 mg |
Iron | 12.5 mg |
Fat | 21.8 g |
Calcium | 1525 mg |
Sodium | 10 mg |
Benefits of Ajwain
The Ajwain benefits and uses are varied. Here are some of the most common benefits of Ajwain.
Below is a list of some of the scenarios in which you can use Ajwain to treat and prevent the problems you may suffer from.
Ajwain for Stomach Ache
The first and foremost advantage of using Ajwain is its potential to solve gastrointestinal problems. Ajwain has been used as a natural remedy for several centuries.
The carminative properties of Ajwain combined with its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory action prove to be very helpful in treating health issues, such as stomach pain, indigestion, flatulence, stomach pain, diarrhoea and bloating.
Use: You can take a small amount of Ajwain directly with water or you can make Ajwain tea to treat stomach ache.
Ajwain Leaves for Cough
Ajwain also helps relieve cough and respiratory problems, like asthma and bronchitis. The antibacterial properties of carom seeds defend the body from seasonal infections, clogged nose, and chronic colds and coughs.
Use: The best way to reduce cough with Ajwain is to chew its leaves. Within a few minutes, you will be able to notice the difference.
Ajwain to Reduce Weight
Thymol present in Ajwain is considered to be effective in losing weight. Its antioxidant properties boost the metabolism and hence lead to reduced weight. In addition to this, Ajwain also helps in improving digestion and nutrient absorption in the body.
Use: To lose weight with the help of Ajwain, soak Ajwain for 8-10 hours, strain water and drink that water, in the morning, on an empty stomach. Another option is that you can boil Ajwain with 2 cups of water and then drink the water.
Ajwain for Menstrual Cramps
Ajwain plays a key role in treating menstrual cramps. The presence of thymol in Ajwain relieves cramps and bloating during periods. This Ajwain benefit for females is due to the analgesic effects it has on the body.
Use: Ajwain leaves can be consumed to alleviate menstrual pain and ease muscle cramps. You can drink Ajwain water daily to get the best Ajwain water benefits and prevent period cramps in the long term.
Ajwain Benefits for Males
Ajwain is an excellent fix to male reproductive problems such as low libido, poor sperm quality, and premature ejaculation. This herb is especially beneficial for males as it can increase sperm count, cure erectile dysfunction and even improve their fertility rate.
Use: Males can consume 1 tsp of Ajwain seeds with water once a week to get positive results.
Ajwain in Pregnancy
There are several problems a woman goes through during pregnancy, including constipation, indigestion, chest congestion or increased blood pressure.
The antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anti-hypertensive properties of Ajwain provide relief in pregnancy. Besides, Ajwain intake also helps in increasing hunger, decreasing acidity and strengthening the uterine wall, which in turn, is necessary for a healthy pregnancy.
Use: Either take Ajwain seeds orally or drink Ajwain water or tea. It is important to note that you shouldn’t add anything new to your diet without consulting your doctor. So, talk to your doctor before consuming Ajwain in pregnancy.
Ajwain for Headache and Migraine
Severe headaches, like migraine and neuralgia, can also be treated by inhaling the aroma of Ajwain.
Use: For relieving headaches, you can make Ajwain tea or wrap Ajwain seeds in a thin cloth and smell the aroma.
Ajwain for Oral Health
Ajwain’s uses also extend to the treatment and prevention of gum problems and toothache. Thanks to its strong smell, Ajwain is also helpful in preventing bad breath and freshening up the mouth.
Use: To treat oral problems, make a paste of Ajwain seeds and apply it to the affected area.
Side Effects of Ajwain
There are no particular side effects of Ajwain, however, consuming it limitlessly can result in serious problems. Here are some possible Ajwain side effects that can be caused by its overconsumption:
Peptic Ulcers- Ajwain stimulates the secretion of gastric fluid. Excess of these secretions can have harmful effects on those who have peptic ulcers.
Acidity or Reflux- Consuming Ajwain excessively can cause gas in the stomach, which in turn, results in acidity or reflux.
Dizziness- The thymol present in Ajwain can lead to dizziness or vomiting.
Pregnancy: If consumed in large quantities, Ajwain can stop the foetal development.
Health Insurance Policies: Your Health Companion
While home remedies can save you from day-to-day health issues, you may need expert care and medical treatment for more serious health issues.
To avoid potential financial crises that may come your way due to the rising treatment costs, it is beneficial that you buy a health insurance policy today.
With Tata AIG, you can now get different covers, such as maternity cover and ambulance expenses cover, under a health insurance plan. Additionally, if you want to have financial security against critical illnesses, you can opt for our critical illness insurance.
In case you have dependent parents at home and you want health insurance for them, then let us inform you about our senior citizen mediclaim policy, which is designed to provide financial assistance to those whose age exceeds 60.
Conclusion
With various properties and a pack of several nutrients that give an absolute number of advantages, it is clear that Ajwain is a gift of nature to us. You can use Ajwain for almost any type of health issue, starting from diarrhoea, arthritis, and respiratory problems, to fighting infections.
However, when consuming Ajwain, it is also essential that you remain aware of its possible side effects. Knowing the disorders that can arise from excessive consumption of Ajwain is a must to ensure that you remain safe at all times.
FAQS
Is Ajwain cold or hot for the body?
Ajwain is considered warm in nature but its moderate intake does not cause any side effects. However, if you do not put a limit on its consumption, it can produce heat in the body.
Which chemical is in Ajwain?
Ajwain is rich in thymol, a compound that has strong antiseptic properties. Along with this, Ajwain also has a good amount of carvacrol in it.
Can we take Ajwain daily?
Yes, Ajwain can be consumed daily but its intake should be restricted. You should not consume more than 10g of Ajwain per day.
Is Ajwain good for the nerves?
Yes. Ajwain is effective in relaxing nerves, especially during periods. It helps relieve menstrual cramps. Apart from this, Ajwain also reduces inflammation and nerve irritation.
Can Ajwain be taken at night?
Yes, but it is advisable to consume Ajwain on an empty stomach. Drinking Ajwain water in the morning provides additional benefits to the human body.
Disclaimer: This is a general guide on Ajwain: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, and More! It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and should not be relied on as health or personal advice. It is advisable to consult a qualified health professional for treatment in severe cases.
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