3 Emerging Benefits and Uses of Carom Seeds (Ajwain)

Carom seeds are the seeds of the ajwain herb, or Trachyspermum ammi. They’re common in Indian cuisine.Although referred to as “seeds,” are the fruit of the ajwain herb.They’re slightly green to brown in color and have a pungent, bitter taste. They look similar to cumin seeds, but their taste and aroma are closer to that of thyme.They’re often sold as whole seeds but can also be ground into a powder and used as a cooking spice.These are incredibly nutritious, being rich in fiber, antioxidants, and other vitamins and minerals. Because of this, they have been associated with health benefits and long been used in traditional Indian medicine practices.

Here are the top 3 health benefits and uses of carom seeds.

1.Fight Bacteria and Fungi:

They have powerful antibacterial and anti fungal properties.This is likely attributed to two of its active compounds, thyme and Carroll, which have been shown to inhibit the growth of this part.

Studies indicate that these compounds may combat potentially harmful bacteria like Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Salmonella — culprits of food poisoning and other health conditions .One of study observed that carom seeds were more effective against multidrug-resistant strains of bacteria and fungi including Candida albicans, Candida krusei, and Streptococcus mutant compared to other solvents .However, further research is needed to examine how the seeds may affect the growth of bacteria and fungi in humans.

2.Improve cholesterol levels:

Animal research indicates that it may lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. High cholesterol and triglyceride levels are risk factors for heart disease.In one rabbit study, carom seed powder reduced total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and triglyceride levels (6).Similarly, a study in rats found that extract was effective in lowering total cholesterol, levels while also increasing levels of heart-protective HAL (good) cholesterol.

Still, in both studies, powder only proved effective at treating high cholesterol levels when used in high doses that you won’t get from eating the seeds through a normal diet.

3.May Lower Blood Pressure:

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a common condition that increases your risk of heart disease and stroke .Traditional treatment involves the use of medications like calcium-channel blockers. These blockers prevent calcium from entering the cells of your heart and relax and expand blood vessels, resulting in lower blood pressure.Some research indicates that thyme — a major component of carom seeds — may have calcium-channel-blocking effects and could help lower blood pressure levels.

For instance, studies demonstrate that carom seed extract reduces blood pressure levels in rats.Read More..

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