What is Cumin used for?
Traditional/Ethnobotanical uses Traditional uses of cumin include anti-inflammatory, diuretic, carminative, and antispasmodic. It has also been used as an aid for dyspepsia, jaundice, diarrhea, flatulence, and indigestion. Cumin powder has been used as a poultice and suppository, and has been smoked in a pipe and taken orally. Cumin is a major component of curry and chili powders and has been used to flavor a variety of commercial food products. The oil, which is derived by steam distillation, is used to flavor alcoholic beverages, desserts and condiments. It has been used as a fragrant component of creams, lotions, and perfumes. The seeds are used in cooking. The oil flavors food and scents cosmetics. Other uses In studies of diabetic animals, cumin reduced blood glucose levels. Cumin seeds contain flavonoids, which are now generally recognized to have antioxidant activity. Cumin appears to have an anticancer effect, as demonstrated in animal studies. Cumin stimulates bile acid secret