What Plant Does Cumin Come From

cumin, (Cuminum cyminum), also spelled cummin, annual plant of the parsley family (Apiaceae) and the spice made of its seedlike fruits. Native to the Mediterranean region, cumin is also cultivated in India, China, and Mexico and is used to flavour a variety of foods. See also list of herbs and spices.

Is cumin an herb or spice?

Native to the eastern Mediterranean, parts of the Middle East, and India, cumin is a very popular aromatic herb with a long history of use as a culinary spice and as a medicine. Seeds were used in ancient Egypt as both a spice and a preservative in mummification.

What part of the cumin plant is used?

Its seeds – each one contained within a fruit, which is dried – are used in the cuisines of many cultures in both whole and ground form. Although cumin is used in traditional medicine, there is no high-quality evidence that it is safe or effective as a therapeutic agent.

Is coriander a cumin?

Is cumin ground coriander? Cumin and ground coriander are not the same spice. Although they both add a lemony warmth to recipes, they are different spices.

Does cumin grow in the US?

Growing and Saving the Seed Of Cumin Latin name Cuminum cyminum is an annual member of the Apiaceae, or carrot, family. The seeds of the cumin plant are popular in a range of cuisines, from the Middle East to Mexico and Asia. This annual grows best in USDA zones 5-10; plants prefer a hot summer.

Is the cumin plant edible?

Cumin plants are not grown for its foliage, however, fresh leaves can be harvested from mature plants to add a light tangy flavor to salads or used as a herb garnish to soups and stews. Once harvested, treat the leaves like a herb or fresh salad and store in the refrigerator for up to a couple of days.

What's cumin good for?

Using cumin as a spice increases antioxidant intake, promotes digestion, provides iron, may improve blood sugar control and may reduce food-borne illnesses. Taking higher doses in supplement form has been linked to weight loss and improved blood cholesterol, though more research is needed.

Is cumin an anti-inflammatory?

Has an anti-inflammatory effect. The active ingredients in cumin seeds have an anti-inflammatory, antiseptic effect. This means that if you have pain or inflammation that trigger other conditions, cumin in your diet may counter the effects.

Is cumin good for high blood pressure?

Yes, Cumin helps reduce blood pressure. It has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant properties. It reduces blood pressure by making nitric oxide more available in the blood. Nitric oxide relaxes narrowed blood vessels and lowers blood pressure[14].

Is drinking cumin seeds good for you?

Nutrition. Cumin contains compounds called flavonoids that work as antioxidants in the body. Antioxidants can help neutralize unstable particles called free radicals that cause cell damage. By neutralizing these particles, antioxidants can help prevent diseases like cancer, heart disease, and high blood pressure.

What are the side effects of cumin?

Cumin is known to have narcotic properties and therefore, they should be consumed with cautiousness. Side-effects of cumin seeds include mental clouding, drowsiness and nausea—which may be caused by excessive consumption of them.

Why do Indians use cumin?

Cumin is the most commonly used spice in Indian cooking and is known as Jeera. This is used as a whole spice and tempered in oil to allow its aromatics to penetrated the oil. It forms a lovely partner with mustard seeds especially in vegetarian dishes. Once ground it is used in marinades and masala pastes.

What is cilantro also called?

In the US, cilantro is the name for the plant's leaves and stem, while coriander is the name for its dried seeds. Internationally, the leaves and stems are called coriander, while its dried seeds are called coriander seeds.

Is turmeric called cumin?

Although their names sound similar, curcumin and cumin have different properties and offer distinct benefits. A polyphenol, curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric, a rhizome that's a member of the ginger family. Grated turmeric root and ground turmeric both turn foods a rich, golden color.

Is cumin same as Paprika?

Cumin spice (or ground cumin) is made from the dried seed of the cumin plant and has a strong, earthy flavor. It is usually light brown or gray in color. Paprika is made from dried peppers and has a milder, sweeter flavor. It is also more colorful, ranging from bright red to orange or yellow.

Which state is famous for cumin?

Gujarat is the largest producer of cumin seeds in India which accounts for 55% to 65% of the total production of India. The rest of the production comes from Rajasthan. Rajasthan and Gujarat is part of approximately 99% of India's production.

Is cumin seeds allowed in USA?

Most spices are allowed, most seeds are not, I guess it will depend whether the US counts cumin seeds as a spice or a seed. The worst that would happen is that they would be confiscated, as long as you declared them up front on arrival. It's usually lying that gets you in real trouble with customs on such matters.

Which state produces the most cumin?

Cumin accounts for 5.81% of total spice produced in India and Gujarat and Rajasthan alone produces 99% of total Cumin production.

What does cumin do to the brain?

Better memory Packed with a bunch of minerals and vitamins such as riboflavin, vitamin B6, zeaxanthin, and niacin consuming cumin is beneficial for the brain to function properly. Cumin helps in promoting better mental health and sharpen the memory by nourishing the brain cells.

What happens when you drink Cumin seed water?

Cumin water is a healthy way to lose weight. It helps in regulating blood sugar levels, lowers LDL cholesterol levels and is a great way to get a healthy and clear skin. For controlling obesity and to get a flat belly, you must try this wonder drink.