AJWAIN (Thymol seeds)

The aromatic seeds are used in adding flavor to a number of Kada drinks, curries, and even bread like parathas. It is also revered in Ayurveda and Siddha medicine for its numerous health benefits. They show healing systems that involve the belief that your overall health and wellness depend on a balance between your body, mind, and spirit. But not a lot of people know about ajwain leaves. Although these leaves come from a different plant than the true ajwain plant, the succulent leaves are still known as ajwain leaves in the Indian subcontinent

Family- Apiaceae
Binomial name- Trachyspermum ammi

Origin and Distribution:

Ajwain originated in the Middle East, in Egypt and the Indian Subcontinent, and in Afghanistan. In India, the major Ajwain-producing states are Rajasthan and Gujarat, where Rajasthan produces about 90% of India’s total production.

Chemical constituents:

Thymol (39.1%).
Oleic acid (10.4%).
Linoleic acid (9.6%).
Gamma-terpinene (2.6%).
P-cymene (1.6%).
Aplitic acid (1.6%).
Xylene (0.1%).

Nutrition Facts:

The nutrients found in 100 gms of Ajwain seeds are:

24.53 grams of carbohydrates
15.89 grams of protein
20.58 grams of fiber
21.11 grams of fat
1034 mg of calcium
357 calories
329 mg of phosphorous
5.67 mg of zinc
13.65 mg of Iron
76.71 mg of omega-3 fats
28.58 mg of sodium
1692 mg of potassium
51.79 mg of folate (vitamin B9)
124.33 mg of Vitamin A
273 mg of magnesium

What are the Health Benefits of Ajwain?

Digestive Health

Active enzymes in ajwain improve the flow of stomach acids, which can help to relieve indigestion, bloating, and gas. The plant can also help to treat peptic ulcers as well as sores in the esophagus, stomach, and intestines. Ajwain can be combined with other spices such as turmeric, paprika, cumin, black pepper, fennel, and coriander for synergistic benefits.

Add ajwain seeds to your cooking for powerful cleansing and digestive benefits.

Reduces blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Ajwain is an expectorant. It can help to loosen mucus and clear congestion.

reducing inflammation

Ayurvedic property

According to Ayurveda, ajwain is a powerful cleanser. It is helpful for stimulating the appetite and enhancing digestion. It is recommended to help alleviate gas and discomfort in the stomach. It is also helpful for the functioning of the respiratory system and the kidneys.

Preventions from infection

Many of the essential oils in ajwain, most notably thymol and carvacrol, can help to fight the growth of bacteria and fungi. They may also help to fight bacteria like salmonella and E. coli, which can lead to food poisoning and other stomach issues.

Ajwain can provide relief from coughing as well as clear mucus from your nose, both of which make breathing easier. It may also help to widen the bronchial tubes, which can help those with asthma.

Ajwain can also help to soothe pain and swelling. Crushed fruit can be made into a paste and applied to the skin at the joints to treat arthritis pain.

Ajwain seeds can also help to reduce skin irritation problems such as acne and pimples due to their natural antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Precautions to Take with Ajwain:

People having peptic ulcers and liver disease must avoid consuming ajwain.
Ajwain seeds cannot be stored for a long period.
Ajwain might interact with unknown drugs. Therefore, you should consult a doctor before using ajwain for its potential health benefits.
Pregnant women should avoid taking an excessive amount of Ajwain due to potential adverse effects on fetal development.

How to use

Ajwain helps to manage digestive problems by promoting digestive fire due to its Deepan (appetizer) property. It also helps to digest the food easily due to its Pachan (digestive) property and gives relief from flatulence.

Tip:

a. Take 1-2 glasses of water in a pan.

b. Add 1 teaspoon of Ajwain seeds to it.

c. Bring it to a boil on low flame for 8-10 mins.

d. Take 2-3 teaspoons of this decoction 3-6 times a day

Ajwain might be useful in patients with asthma as it balances an aggravated Kapha. Ajwain helps to bring out the mucus easily and helps manage chronic bronchitis and asthma to a great extent.

Tip:

1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Ajwain and 1/2 teaspoon Fennel seeds (Saunf)

2. Boil it in 250 ml water till the water changes color.

3. Drink this while it is still hot twice a day.

The ayurvedic dosage of Ajwain varies according to its variants

Decoction:

Image reference

Take one glass of water, add one teaspoon of ajwain seeds to it, and boil it for 10 minutes.
Take half a teaspoon of Ajwain decoction for asthma and cold.
Take it three times

Paste: