

Botanical Name:
Cuminum cyminum
Family:
Apiaceae (Parsley family)
Commercial Part:
Dried seeds
Foreign Name of Spices
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Spanish: Comino
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French: Cumin
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German: Kreuzkümmel
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Swedish: Spiskummin
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Arabic: كمون (Kammun)
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Dutch: Komijn
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Italian: Cumino
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Portuguese: Cominho
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Russian: Тмин обыкновенный (Tmin obyknovennyy)
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Japanese: クミン (Kumin)
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Chinese: 孜然 (Zīrán)
Cumin
About Me.
Cumin, popularly known as Jeera, is one of the most ancient and widely used spices in the world. Harvested from the dried seeds of the Cuminum cyminum plant, cumin is cherished for its warm, earthy, slightly peppery flavor with citrus undertones.
Originating from the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, cumin quickly became a global spice, central to Indian, Middle Eastern, Mexican, and North African cuisines.
Beyond its culinary importance, cumin is revered in traditional medicine for its digestive, immunity-boosting, and antioxidant properties. A small pinch of cumin can transform the aroma and taste of any dish, making it a true kitchen essential.
Uses
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Culinary Uses
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Used whole in tempering dals, curries, and rice dishes.
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Roasted cumin enhances spice blends like garam masala and curry powders.
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Key ingredient in Middle Eastern hummus, falafel, and Mexican tacos.
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Infuses flavor in breads, soups, and sauces across global cuisines.
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Medicinal Uses
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Improves digestion and reduces bloating.
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Rich in iron, supporting blood health.
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Contains antioxidants that strengthen immunity.
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Traditionally used for detox and weight management.
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Other Uses
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Cumin oil used in perfumery, aromatherapy, and herbal remedies.
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Used in traditional beverages like jeera water for health benefits.
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Plays a role in cultural rituals and offerings.
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Types
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Whole Cumin Seeds – Common for cooking and roasting.
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Black Cumin (Kala Jeera/Shahi Jeera) – Aromatic variety used in biryanis and Mughlai dishes.
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Ground Cumin Powder – Widely used in spice mixes and seasoning.
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Cumin Oil/Extract – Used in cosmetics, medicine, and food flavoring.
