It’s always fascinating to me to learn about the health benefits of common kitchen spices. We use ground cumin powder when we make chili, tacos, curry, or fajitas (which is often!). In fact, cumin is the star in a whole host of Mexican, Spanish, Middle Eastern, and Indian dishes.
In the US, cumin is commonly used in packaged taco seasonings, but please … don’t eat those! Make a quick and easy spice mix (listed later in this post) and skip the sodium and fillers found in those little packets.
Cumin is so much more than just another spice to add to a spice blend. It has a distinct flavor that makes it a favorite for many, but of course its health-supporting properties are impressive too! I always order cumin in bulk by the pound and keep a quart-size mason jar in my spice cabinet for easy use. Here’s why:
A Little History of Cumin
Like cinnamon, cumin enjoys a long and venerable history. In fact, it’s one of the earliest herbs to be cultivated in Asia and Europe.
Originally indigenous to Egypt (the ancient Egyptians actually used it in their mummification process!), this tiny seed of a small plant belonging to the parsley family became popular in ancient Greece and Rome. Interestingly, in the Middle Ages cumin symbolized love and fidelity, and was often featured at weddings or baked into loaves of bread sent with soldiers into battle. Spanish and Portuguese colonists later introduced it to the Americas.
As with most spices, these and other cultures valued cumin not just for its scent and flavor but for its medicinal properties. Traditional texts describe its use as a diuretic, to settle the stomach, and to stop flatulence. Some cultures have used it for female health and to stimulate menstruation.
Like many herbs, cumin can be made into a poultice, especially for swelling or sore throat. I even found a reference to a remedy of mixing cumin and ghee to relieve hiccups!
Benefits of Cumin
This common spice has many uses and benefits as a remedy and has been well studied for its effects:
Source of Vitamins
Cumin is considered a good source of iron, manganese, magnesium, phosphorus, and other minerals. It also contains vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, and B6, as well as beneficial amino acids.
Improves Digestion
Some research shows cumin may stimulate the production of pancreatic enzymes and help digestion. This Cumin Coriander and Fennel Tea is my go-to for tummy aches and gas at our house. It’s also good for anyone trying to heal their gut.
Good for the Brain
One study found cumin protects against memory loss and the damaging effects of stress on the body. It stimulates the central nervous system, which has even sparked studies about its potential benefits in Parkinson’s disease patients.
Rich in Antioxidants
Another study evaluated its antioxidant content and found it more effective than other common antioxidants including vitamin C. Some lab research found that it might even have a role in fighting cancer.
May Help Balance Blood Sugar
Yet another study found cumin effective in increasing insulin sensitivity, making it beneficial for diabetics. In fact, a study looking at diabetic rats given cumin extract revealed that cumin was more effective at reducing blood glucose and AGE production than glibenclamide, an anti-diabetic drug.
Yet more research found that cumin extract reduced total cholesterol, triglycerides, and pancreatic inflammatory markers in diabetic rats. It even seems to stop excess weight gain.
Relieves Asthma
Still more research found anti-asthmatic properties in cumin since it works as a brochiodiator and can help asthmatic patients. As an expectorant, it works to loosen phlegm and make it easier to remove.
Ways to Use Cumin
This pungent spice has a plethora of culinary uses but it is so much more than just a spice! Try these many uses to get the benefits daily!
Culinary Uses
There are endless ways to use this spice in the kitchen. It is vital to these spice blends:
- Taco Seasoning Recipe
- Fajita Seasoning Recipe
- Curry Powder Recipe
In a pinch (no pun intended) when I don’t have a spice blend made, I sometimes use just plain cumin to flavor tacos or fajitas and we hardly miss the other spices!
Adding cumin to omelets and egg scrambles also works well, or try it as a dry rub on meats before grilling. Sprinkle on veggies before roasting or add to some rice for a taco-flavored rice blend.
Skin Care
It may not be the first thing that comes to mind but cumin is also great in skin care recipes. Specifically, it makes an excellent face scrub when mixed with honey. It is naturally antibacterial and lightly exfoliating to scrub away impurities. A rich source of vitamin E, it also helps the skin repair damage and stay young looking.
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