Top 9 Benefits and Uses of Carom Seeds (Ajwain)

Carom seeds are a dry spice found in almost every Indian household, without which no scrumptious Indian main course is complete. Also known as Ajwain, these seeds range in color from light olive green to dark brown. Because of the powerful aroma of this herb, it is also known as "Ugragandha" in Sanskrit. The seeds have a bitter and strong flavor, similar to oregano, and are commonly used in curries and pickles. The health benefits of Carom (Ajwain) Seeds and water are talked about by many people because they are high in fiber, minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants.

There are numerous health benefits of Carom (Ajwain) Seeds and water for your digestive system. Ajwain water benefits indigestion-related abdominal discomforts, such as stomach pain or burning sensations. They stimulate the appetite of people who experience a loss of appetite. Carom seeds are a few spices that may serve as both a flavor enhancer and a health supplement.

Super Benefits Of Ajwain (Carom Seeds) For Hair, Skin And Health

Before using it in a meal, some people dry roast it or toast it in ghee or butter. They can be eaten raw or added to water or tea to get the most out of them. They are frequently used in masalas as well as in the dough for rotis and bread before baking.

The health benefits of Carom (Ajwain) Seeds and water are numerous, and one should be aware of them to consciously make the most out of the seeds.

What is Ajwain or Carom Seed? 

Ajwain is a shrub with a flavor similar to oregano and anise that looks like fennel and cumin seeds. It has been a part of cooking and medicine in India, Middle Eastern countries, and Africa since ancient times. Ajwain is a seed-like fruit commonly used as part of a spice mix in Indian cooking. It comes as seeds and powder; although, the seeds are more commonly used for cooking.

Coriander, cumin, and fennel all belong to the same family as Ajwain. It is one of the most used herbs because of its aromatic nature, and just a few teaspoons of these Carom seeds can result in a strong flavor and essence. Ajwain water benefits are many so people use it a lot to resolve health issues.

Taste and Origins

Persia and Asia Minor are said to be the origins of the Ajwain plant. It then moved to India and is currently grown in the Middle East and North Africa as well. The element 'thymol' is present in both thyme and Carom seeds, so this spice has a similar flavor profile to the green herb.

Ajwain blends this earthy, minty flavor with oregano's bitterness, cumin's sharpness, and anise's licorice flavor, which is so strong that it can overpower other flavors.

How to Use and Store Carom Seeds?

Ajwain is a spice that is typically used in everyday cooking and has a strong, overpowering flavor. This spice, in Indian dishes, is specifically used for tadka. Tadka, or Tempering, is a cooking process in which whole spices are added and fried in oil or butter while being heated to a high temperature. This oil and spice mixture is then put into the cooked lentils or as a finishing touch or garnish.

Carom seeds are also used in the dough for bread and biscuits and even sprinkled on top after baking. They should be roasted, cooled, and finely ground to make a powder if required for a recipe. Carom seeds can be stored in a cool, dark place, which lasts for at least a year. 

Top Benefits of Carom Seeds

Relieves Acidity and Indigestion

Ajwain water benefits ulcers in the digestive tract, including the stomach, intestines, and esophagus. Heat a small amount of these roasted seeds in water, filter them, and drink the flavored water. Carom seeds also help to keep your belly in good shape. Its active enzymes work to strengthen digestive functions by stimulating the release of gastric fluids.

Carom seeds can provide relief from acid reflux, gas, and chronic indigestion. To treat digestive issues, chew a half teaspoon of Carom seeds or drink them with water. Ajwain water benefits also include easing heartburn. Take a half teaspoon cumin and one teaspoon ginger powder every day with water and see it work wonders! 

 Treats Common Cold

Carom seed powder can help to clear nasal congestion and ease sinus discomfort. Make a small pack or potli with Carom seeds and heat over an iron pan in a thin cloth or handkerchief. To relieve a headache or congestion, gently place this hot bag of Carom seeds on your head or chest. Consuming Carom seeds promotes the easy discharge of mucus, which helps to avoid nose blockage.

Make a mixture of Carom seeds and jaggery by boiling them together and take two teaspoons twice a day to feel better. Carom seeds also assist in the treatment of respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. If you're suffering from a cough, boil these seeds in water, filter them, and sip the hot liquid like tea.

 Eases Ear and Tooth Pain

Toothaches, earaches, as well as skin infections, can be treated with Carom seeds. If you have a toothache, put one teaspoon of Carom seeds in a glass of lukewarm water with a sprinkle of salt. Gargle twice a day with this warm water until you feel completely relieved.

Carom seed oil is widely available in medical supply stores. If you have an earache, you must apply the oil directly to it for instant results.

 Heals Wounds

Carom seeds are antiseptic and antibacterial, making them excellent cleansers for minor wounds and skin diseases. They contain thymol, a powerful germicidal agent. Thymol in Carom is a powerful fungicide and germicide and can be applied to the skin to keep infections at bay. It assists in wound disinfection and speeds up the healing process. Crushed Carom seeds can treat skin infections and sores.

 Oma Water

Carom seed water, also called Oma water, is an Ayurveda miracle, especially for females. It cures dyspepsia in pregnant women by cleaning the uterus and stomach while also helping with irregular periods. Oma water is also typically given to babies to alleviate the problem of gas, which causes discomfort.

Boil two tablespoons of roasted Carom seeds in water to make Oma water. Drink after straining the mixture. You can also add one teaspoon of honey for flavoring. Regularly drinking Oma water is proven to boost your metabolism, burn fat, and reduce body fat. The health benefits of Carom (Ajwain) Seeds and water are many.

 Prevents Hair Greying

Ajwain water benefits and prevents hair from greying prematurely and help with hair loss problems. In one cup of water, add a handful of curry leaves, a few raisins, one teaspoon of sugar, and a teaspoon of Carom seeds. Cook for five to seven minutes and then strain the liquid after removing it from the heat. Drink this liquid every day, once a day for a month. Reduce the frequency of consumption to thrice or twice a week once you notice benefits.

 Acts as a Mosquito Repellent

If the mosquito repellent you bought at the store doesn't work, you can always create your own. Mix mustard oil with Carom seeds and apply to objects in the corners of your room to keep mosquitoes away. Unlike the fumes emitted by coils, using this spice as a repellent fills your house with a lovely smell.

 Skin Cleanser

Carom seeds are particularly effective at lightening acne scars. Make a paste of these seeds and water and apply to the affected region and leave it on for 10-15 minutes before rinsing. This efficient home remedy is beneficial in removing impurities from the skin.

Carom seeds contain thymol, a component that supports the fight against fungus and bacteria. Carom seeds relieve minor skin irritation in minutes. Carefully crumble the Carom seeds and apply them immediately to the area of skin that is irritated. 

Eases Arthritis Pain

Ajwain seeds have two properties that benefit in the treatment of arthritis. They have antibacterial characteristics that help to reduce inflammation and redness. The health benefits of Carom (Ajwain) Seeds and water is that they have anaesthetic qualities, which help to alleviate pain and swelling. You can soak in a tub of hot water with a handful of Carom seeds at home. Because of their anti-inflammatory characteristics, Carom seeds can help you get rid of redness around your joints in arthritis. It also assists in relieving pain and reducing swelling associated with arthritis.

Those mentioned above are a handful of the many benefits of Carom seeds. They have long been a part of Ayurvedic herbal formulas and traditional Indian cuisine. They exhibit potent antibacterial, antifungal, and antioxidant properties. Lotions and ointments that contain carom seed oil help treat skin issues. The antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities of Carom seeds prove useful for healing peptic ulcers and lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Carom seeds are considered safe to consume by most individuals. If you're pregnant, consult a doctor before consuming Carom seeds in any form, including seed, extract, or powder.