Ajwain seeds come from herbal plants that grow up to three feet. They are olive green or brown in color. It is quite similar to cumin seeds in appearance.
Their flavour resembles thyme as it contains essential oil and thymol. Ajwain originates from Eastern Mediterranean and is spread over India and other countries. Ajwain seeds are rarely consumed raw. They are commonly dry-roasted in dry ghee.
Carom Seeds In Other Languages
Take a look at the picture of the seeds above. Have you been able to recognize it? Well, most cooking aficionados would by now realize what carom seeds are, but for novices, here is a ready list of all the names that carom seeds is known by:
English | Carom Seeds |
---|---|
Hindi | Ajwain |
Marathi | Ouwa |
Tamil | Vitaikal |
Malayalam | Ayamodagam |
Kannada | Oma |
Urdu | Ajwain |
Arabic | Nanakha |
Gujarati | Ajmo |
So if you see some of the above names in any recipe, you will know what it really refers to! Go ahead, start using Ajmo in your dishes!
But before we proceed to the awesome benefits of having Ajmo seeds, here is how you can actually identify the seeds. Mind it, carom seeds may look similar to other types of seeds that we commonly use in our dishes.
Seed Properties
Shape: It is an oval and elongated seed, with ridges in between
Size: If you are familiar with fennel seeds, you will be able to compare the size of carom seeds with these- they are pretty similar
Colour: Brownish, sometimes yellowish-brown too
Taste: If you take a bite, you will get a sharp and strong taste
Leaves: Ajwain leaves look like a blown-up version of mint leaves. They are small and willowy
Fragrance: Carom seeds have a very peculiar fragrance that is strong and pungent
Carom seeds are very easy to recognize once you know the above properties. The size, the smell and the taste will help you identify carom seeds easily. Before we go into the benefits of carom seeds, here is the table for their nutritional values.
Nutrition values | |
---|---|
Calories | 305 |
Total Fat | 25 g |
Saturated | 4g |
Polyunsaturated | 15g |
Monounsaturated | 5g |
Trans | 0g |
Cholesterol | 0g |
Sodium | 10g |
Potassium | 0g |
Total Carbs | 43g |
Dietary Fiber | 39g |
Sugars | 0g |
Protein | 16g |
Vitamin A | 0g |
Vitamin C | 0g |
Calcium | 0g |
Iron | 0g |
Ajwain seeds are not consumed as food, and it is mostly used as a condiment in most Indian dishes.
If you wish to know about the advantages of adding these seeds to your diet, then here you go:
Here is the List of Benefits of Ajwain Seeds for Hair, Skin and Health:
1. Ajwain for Acidity:
Ajwain is a natural remedy to treat digestive issues. It is also useful for treating acidity and acid reflux problems.
How to Use:
- Mix one tsp of ajwain seeds and cumin seeds each. Add little ginger powder to it.
- Consume this mixture daily.
Note: Try this remedy whenever you have acidity and acid reflux problems.
2. Ajwain for Constipation:
Ajwain seeds are an effective remedy for treating digestive problems. It can help one to treat constipation.
How to Use:
- Eat ajwain seeds directly or include in daily diet to treat indigestion.
Note: Ajwain seeds can help women during pregnancy and breastfeeding period to improve digestive disorders.
3. Ajwain for Kidney disorder:
Ajwain seeds can help to treat kidney stones by dissolving it or passing it through urine.
How to Use:
- Have a mixture of ajwain seeds, honey, and vinegar for a period of two weeks.
Note: Consume it daily until it reduces the pain that comes with kidney disorders.
4. Ajwain for Asthma:
Ajwain seeds contain anti-bacterial agents that can provide relief from respiratory problems like asthma.
How to Use:
- Mix ajwain seeds with warm water to get instant relief from cold and expel cough from the body.
- Another remedy is to consume the ajwain seeds with jaggery twice a day.
Note: You can also massage your chest using ajwain infused oil to get relief from congestion.
5. Ajwain for Liver:
Ajwain seeds help in the treatment for liver enlargement and spleen swelling.
How to Use:
- Mix ajwain seeds in a glass of water to cure intestinal pain caused by indigestion and infection.
Note: This mixture can help in treating liver malfunctions.
6. Ajwain for Mouth problems:
Ajwain seeds are a natural treatment for all dental related problems. It can bring instant relief from toothache and bad breath.
How to Use:
- Floss your mouth with a mixture of ajwain seeds, clove oil, and water for treating toothache or decay.
Note: It is one of the best natural ways to maintain your oral hygiene.
7. Ajwain for Cold:
Ajwain seeds are effective in the treatment of cold, cough, flu, and viral fever. These seeds are rich in macronutrients which makes it an effective remedy for cold.
How to Use:
- Drink ajwain seed water for instant relief from cold.
Note: You can also try a steam inhalation from ajwain seeds infused hot water.
8. Ajwain for Itching, Boils & Eczema:
Ajwain seeds can help in the treatment of itching, boils, and eczema. You can wash the affected using boiled ajwain seeds infused water.
How to Use:
- Crush ajwain seeds with lukewarm water to form a smooth paste.
- Apply the paste on any affected area.
Note: You can also make a paste of ajwain seeds and lemon juice to treat swelling of boils and eczema.
9. Ajwain for excessive bleeding and irregular menses:
Women who experience irregular periods or excessive bleeding should drink ajwain water. Ajwain seeds can regulate periods and also relieve menstrual pain.
How to Use:
- Soak a handful of ajwain seeds in a pot of water overnight.
- Crush the mixture and drink it first thing in the morning.
Note: Try this remedy two or three days before the expected menstrual date.
10. Ajwain for Digestion:
Ajwain seeds can help in the treatment for digestive issues or disorders such as abdominal discomfort and vomiting. It can aid in digestive disorders and stimulate the appetite.
How to Use:
- Chew one tsp of raw ajwain seeds mixed with sugar to prevent digestive issues.
Note: You can also mix ajwain seeds, ginger powder, salt, cumin seeds, fennel seeds, ghee, in cooked rice for aiding in digestion.
11. Ajwain for Arthritis:
Ajwain is helpful in the treatment for arthritis pain. It can provide relief from joint pain related to arthritis.
How to Use:
- Mix cumin, fenugreek, and ajwain seeds, to form a smooth paste.
- Take ½ tsp of this mixture every morning.
Note: You can also massage with ajwain oil to treat arthritis pain.
12. Ajwain for Diarrhea:
Ajwain seeds are an effective remedy for treating dysentery or diarrhoea. It has antiseptic, germicidal and antispasmodic agents to cure diarrhoea.
How to Use:
- Boil a handful of ajwain seeds in one glass of water.
- Consume this mixture twice a day.
Note: Consume the ajwain infused water once or twice a day depending on the severity of your condition.
13. Ajwain for Viral Infections:
Viral infections are common during seasonal changes. Ajwain seeds can help in seasonal disorders like cold, flu, and viral fever.
How to Use:
- Drink a mixture of ajwain seeds water for instant relief.
14. Ajwain for Flu:
Ajwain seeds are a great remedy for treating common flu during monsoon season.
How to Use:
- Boil ajwain seeds with cinnamon in water to form a smooth paste.
- Strain the mixture.
- Drink the mixture four times to treat flu.
15. Ajwain for Mosquito repellent:
Ajwain seeds are a natural mosquito repellent and insecticide. It can help to drive off mosquitoes from the room.
How to Use:
- Mix mustard oil with ajwain seed powder.
- Dip cardboard pieces in the ajwain infused mixture.
- Tie in the corners of the room to drive away mosquitoes.
Note: You can also sprinkle the mixture of ajwain seed powder and mustard oil in the corners of your room.
16. Ajwain for Lost appetite:
Ajwain seeds are great for treating stomach disorders like loss of appetite. You can revive your taste buds by adding ajwain to your daily diet.
How to Use:
- Mix fennel seeds, dried ginger powder, salt, black cumin seeds, and ajwain seeds.
- Add hot ghee into the mixture.
- Use the mixture with cooked rice.
17. Ajwain for Piles:
Ajwain seeds are a natural treatment for piles. There are several ways to use ajwain seeds for serious piles condition.
How to Use:
- Mix ajwain seed powder and rock salt in a glass of buttermilk.
- Consume this mixture after each meal twice a day.
18. Ajwain for healing pain:
Did you know that ajwain seeds can be used for the treatment of body-related pain? You can drink a mixture of ajwain seeds to heal your pain.
How to Use:
- Take few ajwain seeds and mix it with onion seeds, fenugreek seeds, and isabgol.
- Mix all these ingredients together and grind it well to form a fine powder.
- Mix one tsp of this powder in one glass of water.
- Drink this mixture once daily.
Note: Consume this drink on an empty stomach for best results.
19. Ajwain for Sexual disability:
If you have been suffering from a sexual disability, then you should try a natural remedy like ajwain seeds. It can boost sexual disabilities.
How to Use:
- Roast ajwain seeds, tamarind kernels, and clarified butter.
- Grind all these ingredients together.
- Take one tsp of this mixture to a glass of milk and honey.
Note: Consume this mixture once daily at night for best results.
20. Ajwain for Breastfeeding:
Ajwain seeds are an effective remedy for the cleansing uterus and increasing milk production. Breastfeeding mothers should drink a mixture of ajwain daily to see results.
How to Use:
- Add one tsp of fennel seeds and ajwain seeds in one glass of water.
- Boil this mixture for five minutes.
- Strain the mixture and set off to cool.
Note: Consume the ajwain infused drink for effective results.
21. Ajwain for Menstrual cramps:
Ajwain seeds serve as a nerve tonic and help relax your nerves during the menstrual period. It can lower cramps associated with menstrual pain.
How to Use:
- Apply the ajwain seed oil on your lower abdomen muscles for instant relaxation or relief.
22. Ajwain for Stomach problems:
Ajwain is an excellent remedy for curing indigestion, loss of appetite, and other stomach problems.
How to Use:
- Add three or four tsp ajwain seeds in lime juice.
- Allow this mixture to dry in the sunlight.
- After the mixture dries, add little black salt.
Note: Drink this mixture once at least twice a day mixed with warm water.
23. Ajwain for belching:
Belching can lead to an act of the expelling gas from the stomach through the mouth. You can cure indigestion and belch with the help of ajwain seeds.
How to Use:
- Mix dried ginger, black salt, and ajwain seeds.
- Add these ingredients to warm water.
- Drink this mixture after your meals.
Note: You can also add cinnamon powder to this ajwain infused water.
24. Ajwain for Migraine:
Migraine is caused due to several factors and induces severe headache. If you suffer from migraine, you can make use of ajwain seeds.
How to Use:
- Put ajwain seeds in a tissue paper.
- Wrap it up.
- Smell this mixture to reduce migraine.
Note: You can also inhale fumed ajwain seeds mixture or apply ajwain seeds paste on the head.
25. Ajwain for Heart health:
Keeping your heart healthy is important. You can avoid heart problems by making use of ajwain.
How to Use:
- Mix one tsp of carom seeds in a glass of warm water.
- Drink this mixture for positive results.
Note: You can also add one tsp of jaggery into this solution for immediate relief.
26. Ajwain for Alcoholic:
Addiction of alcohol can be harmful to the body. You can try home remedies like ajwain seeds to get rid of drinking people.
How to use:
- Chew ajwain seeds daily to get rid of alcohol craving.
Note: Chew the ajwain seeds in moderate quantities. Overconsumption can lead to serious side effects.
27. Ajwain for Sperm count:
If you are concerned about your sexual performance like an ejaculation, reduced erection and sexual desire, then you need not worry as it can be fixed. You can try ajwain seeds mixture to increase your sperm count.
How to use:
- Mix one tsp of ajwain mixture to a glass of milk.
- Drink the mixture every night.
28. Ajwain for Insecticide:
Ajwain seeds contain therapeutic agents and can be used as an insecticide. It can also be used for treating poisonous insect bites.
How to use:
Use ajwain seeds in your food preparations by either roasting it or deep fry in oil.
Note: Apply ajwain seeds mixture on insect bite affected area.
29. Ajwain for Used in cooking:
Ajwain seeds are popularly used while preparing several Indian dishes. It can also be added to salads, soups, and pickles for resolving health disorders.
How to use:
- Ajwain seeds can be roasted and fried in oil.
30. Ajwain for Pimple:
Acne is a common skin condition. It can leave behind ugly scars giving your skin an uneven texture. You can make use of ajwain seeds for lightening scars caused by acne.
How to use:
- Mix powdered ajwain seeds with yogurt.
- Apply this mixture onto skin.
- Allow it to stay for 30 minutes.
- Wash off using warm water.
31. Ajwain for Reduce weight:
If you want to reduce fats, then you should drink ajwain seeds infused water on an empty stomach. This mixture can help to dissolve your fats and reduce body weight.
How to use:
- Soak ajwain seeds overnight.
- Mix it half glass of water in the morning.
- Consume on an empty stomach.
Note: Studies have revealed that consuming this solution can allow you to reduce four-five kg in 30 days.
32. Ajwain for Bed Wetting:
Bed-wetting is a condition common amongst children. They can wet the bed with no underlying condition. But if you are a concerned parent, then you can try this homemade remedy.
How to use:
- Take 50 gm black sesame, 25 gm ajwain seeds and 100 gm jaggery.
- Mix these ingredients well.
- Consume one tsp of this mixture twice a day.
Note: This remedy can also be helpful for adults to control frequent urination problems.
33. Ajwain for Ear pain:
Ear pain can be related to an infection. The pain in the ears can also be caused for treating boils in ears.
How to use:
- Heat one tsp and two tsp ajwain seeds in sesame oil.
- Once the mixture turns red, remove from flame.
- Strain the mixture and set it off to cool.
- Apply as ear drops twice or thrice daily.
Note: You can also use these ear drops for treating boils in the ear.
34. Ajwain for Flatulence:
Flatulence is referred to the gas that forms in the digestive system. Though this is not a serious condition, it can lead to discomfort. You can try an ajwain based remedy for best treatment.
How to use:
- Soak three tsp ajwain seeds in lime juice.
- Allow it to dry in a cool place.
- Once it dries, make a fine powder using the ajwain mixture.
- Sprinkle a little amount of black salt.
- Add this mixture into warm water.
- Consume this solution daily twice a day.
35. Ajwain for Joint pains:
Joint damage can be caused due to an injury or underlying disease. It can cause a lot of pain. Several medical conditions can lead to painful joints, including strains, arthritis, and gout.
How to use:
- Mix Shatavari, cumin seeds, fenugreek seeds, and ajwain seeds.
- Grind all these ingredients into a fine powder.
- Take ½ tsp of this mixture every morning.
Note: This mixture can reduce the pain and swelling related with joint pains.
36. Ajwain for Greying of Hair:
There are several factors put together that can result in greying of hair. However, there are ways to treat this problem. Ajwain seed is one natural solution for grey hair.
How to use:
- Add two to three curry leaves, two dry grapes, one pinch of ajwain seeds in one cup of water. Bring it boil.
- Add sugar to taste.
- Strain the mixture.
- Drink one glass of this mixture once daily.
37. Ajwain for Colic:
Taking care of colicky babies can be frustrating for parents. It can be marked by episodes of distress and crying in an otherwise healthy baby. If your child is suffering from this condition, then you can try this remedy.
How to use:
- Boil one tsp of fennel seeds and ½ tsp of ajwain seeds in ½ liter of water.
- Bring it to boil on low flame for five minutes.
- Strain the mixture and set it off to cool.
Note: Feed your child with one glass of this solution once daily after meals.
38. Ajwain for Diabetes:
A diabetic patient suffers from elevated glucose levels or high sugar levels in the bloodstream. You can keep your blood sugar in check by trying this homemade remedy.
How to use:
- Dry a handful of neem leaves in direct sunlight.
- Grind the leaves into fine powder.
- Store it in an airtight container.
- Mix one tsp of this powder into hot milk.
- Add ½ tsp of powder cumin and ajwain seeds.
- Consume this mixture for a month.
Note: Drinking this mixture can control glucose levels and prevent diabetes.
39. Ajwain for Paralysis:
Paralysis can be permanent or a temporary condition caused by loss of muscle function in body. Its common causes are stroke, spinal injury, and multiple sclerosis. Trying an ajwain based solution can be useful for treating paralysis.
How to use:
- Soak ajwain seeds in water.
- Consume this infused drink daily for treating paralysis.
40. Ajwain for Eye cleanser:
Eyes are the most delicate body organs. It is essential to strengthen and maintain eye health. You can do so by making an eye cleanser using ajwain seeds.
How to use:
- Boil a handful of ajwain seeds in a vessel of water.
- Bring it to boil and remove from flame.
- Cool and strain the mixture.
- Use this solution as eye drops twice daily to clean your eyes.
41. Ajwain for Deafness:
Deafness or hearing loss can happen at any age. It can be caused due to a number of factors. You can create ajwain based ear drops to treat hearing problem at an early stage.
How to use:
- Put few drops of ajwain oil into your ears to treat this condition.
42. Ajwain for Body cleanser:
On a daily basis, we are exposed to a number of toxic chemicals. It is important to cleanse or detoxify body by doing natural cleansing. One remedy can be ajwain seeds.
How to use:
- Consume ajwain seeds infused tea daily before meals to cleanse your body toxins.
Note: This ajwain based tea can help in purifying blood and improving blood flow in our body. You can refer to tips on making use of ajwain seeds to learn how to make the ajwain infused tea.
43. Ajwain for Calculus:
Treating an underlying condition can prevent the formation of stones often known as calculus. Consuming an effective remedy like ajwain seeds can help treat this condition.
How to use:
- Consume six grams of ajwain seeds on a daily basis for treating calculus.
44. Ajwain for Menorrhagia:
Most women suffer from menorrhagia condition, which leads to prolonged menstrual bleeding. It can cause excessive blood flow. One way to treat this problem is by using ajwain seeds.
How to use:
- Soak 25 gm of ajwain seeds in a pot filled with water overnight.
- Grind this mixture.
- Drink the solution first thing in the morning.
Note: It is advisable to have this solution two or three days before your menstrual period commences.
45. Ajwain for Urticaria:
Urticaria also known as hives is a skin rash caused by red itchy bumps. It can be trigged due to an allergic reaction to medicine, food, and other irritants. Making use of ajwain seeds can treat this condition.
How to use:
- Mix one gm of ajwain seeds with three grams of jaggery.
- Consume this mixture for immediate relief.
Note: You can also apply the paste of ajwain seeds on affected areas.
46. Ajwain for Hypothyroid:
Hypothyroidism occurs because of abnormal functioning of thyroid gland. This condition can be triggered when thyroid gland is not stimulated by pituitary system. Herbs are highly recommended for treating hypothyroid condition. One of them is ajwain seeds.
How to use:
- Include ajwain seeds in food preparation to treat hypothyroid.
Note: Do not use the ajwain seeds with certain vegetables such as Brussels, cabbage, spinach, and broccoli.
47. Ajwain for Babies:
Ajwain is an effective remedy for treating cold and cough in children. This herb is safe for babies and it can be prepared in several ways.
How to use:
- Add one tsp of ajwain, eight to ten tulsi leaves, ½ tsp of dry ginger powder, one clove, five black pepper, ½ tsp turmeric, 1/3 cup jaggery in ½ cup of water.
- Mix all the ingredients in a pan.
- Allow to boil for 10 minutes.
- Strain the mixture and set it off to cool.
- Feed one tsp of this solution twice daily after food for three days.
Note: If your child is older than one year, then you can increase the dosage to 1 ½ tsp twice daily after meals for three days.
48. Ajwain for Loose Motion:
Ajwain seeds have been used for several centuries to treat stomach related problems. It is often recommended for toddlers. It can have a positive effect on loose motions.
How to use:
- Mix one tsp of ajwain seeds, and a pinch of salt in a glass of water.
- Drink this mixture for instant relief.
Note: You can also infuse ajwain seeds water by boiling the mixture together. Consume two to three glasses of this solution daily.
49. Ajwain for Constipation:
Ajwain is known for its medicinal properties. It can be an effective remedy for digestive problems. It contains natural oils helpful in promoting intestinal health.
How to use:
- Roast one tsp of ajwain seeds in a pan.
- Grind the roasted seeds into a fine powder.
- Mix one tsp of black salt,and hing to the ajwain mixture
- Add all these ingredients to a glass of warm water and drink.
Note: You will instantly feel a bowel movement. This solution will instantly cleanse your colon system.
50. Ajwain for Paralysis:
Ajwain is extremely effective for treating numbness and paralysis. It can treat symptoms like trembling and shaking of limbs associated with paralysis.
How to use:
- Soak ajwain seeds in water.
- Consume the mixture daily.
51. Ajwain for Kidney Stones:
Kidney stones are hard deposits that are stuck together in concentrated urine. It can get quite painful while passing urine. One way to treat kidney stones is to have an ajwain mixture.
How to use:
- Mix ajwain seeds, honey, and vinegar.
- Consume this solution for 10 days to dissolve kidney stones.
Note: The kidney stones can get dissolved and pass through urine.
Ajwain Seeds Side Effects:
While ajwain seeds are safe to use daily when taken in moderation, monitor the intake if it is for a longer period of time.
- It might cause photosensitivity in some individuals, especially when are taken daily for a long period.
- This spice should not be taken by patients who suffer from liver diseases, ulcerative colitis, and diverticulitis conditions.
Precautions to Take Ajwain Seeds:
- Store the seeds away from direct sunlight.
- Do not over consume ajwain seeds as it might lead to nausea, vomiting, allergy, skin irritation and headache.
- Store the seeds in an airtight container.
- People with a history of liver issues and hyperacidity should avoid taking these seeds.
- Do not over consume ajwain seeds during pregnancy as it might increase heat in the body.
Tips for Taking Carrom Seeds:
- You can prepare an ajwain infused tea by mixing two tsp of fresh ajwain seeds in a pan. Roast this on low flame and set it off to cool. In the meantime, boil 500 ml of water. When the water comes to boil, add the roasted ajwain seeds into the water. Allow it to boil for 15-20 minutes. Strain the mixture and drink once a day.
- You can make a healthy drink by mixing half tsp of ajwain seeds and one tsp of roasted fennel seeds to four cups of water. Bring the water to a boil. Set it off to cool before drinking.
- You can also add ajwain seeds in your daily diet. Dry roast 250 gm of ajwain seeds and store it an airtight container after it cools down. Have one tsp of this mixture daily before breakfast.
Final Words about Ajwain Benefits:
- Ajwain seeds can be added to salad dressings and snack recipes.
- These seeds can be used as a substitute for oregano and thyme.
- Ajwain seeds can be added while making pickles.
- These seeds can remain fresh for one year.
I hope this article has given an insight to some of these queries; carom seeds benefits, ajwain seeds in English, ajwain side effects, ajwain seeds in Tamil, ajwain seeds in Telugu, ajwain benefits for hair, how much ajwain to take in a day, ajwain water at night.
If you still have a question, comment below.