Ajwain | 10 Amazing Uses And Benefits of Ajwain- (अजवायन)
Ajwain, also known as carom seeds, is an ancient spice that has been used for centuries in India as a digestive aid and for its medicinal benefits. Its mostly found in majority of indian houses and well known for it’s multipurpose benefits from kid’s to grown ups and Senior Members.
Ajwain, ajowan, or Trachyspermum ammi—also known as ajowan caraway, omam, thymol seeds, bishop’s weed, or carom—is an annual herb in the family Apiaceae. Both the leaves and the seed like fruit of the plant are consumed by humans. The name “bishop’s weed” also is a common name for other plants. (wiki)
It is a member of the parsley family and has a strong, pungent flavour. Ajwain is a rich source of several essential oils and vitamins, including thymol, which is a powerful antioxidant. It also contains several minerals, including iron, copper, manganese, and zinc.
Ajwain has active components such as thymol, carvacrol, and terpenes, which give it its pungent taste and aroma. These active components are known to have antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties.
The seeds are used as a spice and in Ayurvedic medicine for its various medicinal properties. They are known to have digestive, anti-inflammatory, anti-bacterial, and anti-fungal benefits. It is widely used in Indian cooking and is a key ingredient in many recipes. But what many people don’t know is that ajwain is also incredibly beneficial for your health. In this blog, We will discuss 10 of the best uses and benefits of ajwain.
- Digestive Aid: Ajwain is a great way to help with digestion. Its carminative properties help to reduce gas and bloating, while its antispasmodic properties soothe the stomach and intestines. It also helps to stimulate the production of digestive juices, further aiding the digestive process.
- Detoxification: Ajwain has been used for centuries in Ayurveda to help detoxify the body. It is said to help clear toxins from the liver, kidneys, and other organs, as well as the blood.
- Respiratory Aid: Ajwain can help to clear the lungs and respiratory tract of mucus and infections. It is an expectorant, meaning it helps to loosen and expel phlegm from the lungs.
- Weight Loss: Ajwain is known to be a great aid for weight loss. It helps to boost metabolism and reduce fat accumulation, making it easier to shed those extra pounds.
- Skin Care: Ajwain has anti-inflammatory and antiseptic properties, making it an ideal ingredient for treating skin conditions. It can help reduce acne, wrinkles, and other skin blemishes.
- Headache Relief: Ajwain is known to be an effective remedy for headaches. It can help to reduce pain and inflammation, as well as alleviate stress and tension.
- Heart Health: Ajwain is known to be beneficial for heart health. It can help to reduce cholesterol levels, prevent atherosclerosis, and reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
- Blood Pressure: Ajwain can help to regulate blood pressure, helping to reduce both high and low blood pressure.
- Stress Relief: Ajwain is said to have calming and stress-relieving properties. It can help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation.
- Immunity Booster: Ajwain is known to be an effective immune booster. It can help to fight off infections and strengthen the immune system.
As you can see ajwain has a number of health benefits and can be used in a variety of ways, including:
1. Cooking: Ajwain can be used in a variety of Indian dishes, such as dals, curries, and vegetables. It can also be used to flavor breads, soups, and stews.
2. Tea: Ajwain can be boiled in water to make a tea that can help reduce digestive issues and provide relief from cold and flu symptoms.
3. Essential Oil: Ajwain essential oil can be used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis, as well as reducing inflammation. Ajwain is a powerful spice that can be used to improve digestive health, reduce inflammation, and boost immunity. Make sure to talk to your doctor before using ajwain for any medical condition, as it can interact with certain medications.
This spice is indigenous to Egypt but is also grown in many parts of South & West Asia, including Iran, India, Pakistan, and other countries. Gujarat and Rajasthan are regions within India that are well known for cultivating ajwain.
In Indian recipes, Its used in curries , Roti (Flat Bread) , pakoras , dals. Middle Eastern recipes incorporate carom to boost the flavour of meat and rice dishes and as a preservative in chutneys, pickles, and jams.
Ajwain Water is also very popularly known for helping Digestion , Cold and Stomach Ache. It can also be combined with Jaggery to help cure cough.
Besides, ajwain pairs well with gram flour and is hence a popular spice for pakoras and also used as a battering ingredient for fried seafood, drumsticks, and onion rings. Ajwain is added to chutneys, sauces, pickles, and jams especially in the middle eastern countries.
Also we can easily grow ajwain in out houses . It Just needs a pot and some care in early stage. You can also get it from a nursery nearby and grow. When you have plenty of leafs you can pluck wash and make pakoras out of it. Similar to aloo pakora.