Herb of the Month: Cumin – World’s Second Most Popular Spice

By Jessica Rogers March 29, 2023 20 mins read 119 Views

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by Maryann Readal

The Herb Society of America's Herb of February is Cuminum Cyminum. This spice adds warmth and earthiness to dishes when used in cooking. It is particularly welcome in winter months. Cumin is a native of Egypt, and it is grown in Asia and southern Europe. A United Nations report states that India produces around 70% of the world's cumin, and exports it to 150 countries (Bailey 2022). It is second in popularity after black pepper.

Cumin is an herb of the Apiaceae family. Cumin is the name of the seed it produces. The seed takes 120-150 days for it to germinate. Although they can be started indoors, seeds may not transfer well to cooler climates. Cumin requires full sun and well-draining soil. Root rot is possible if the soil is not well-drained. This plant can reach a height of approximately one foot and bears feathery leaves and pink or yellow flowers. They are small, boat-shaped seeds with ridges. They are similar to caraway seeds. Cumin can be purchased as either a whole or powder form. You can also chop the leaves and add them to salads.

In excavations dating back to 4,000 years in Egypt and Syria, Cumin seeds were discovered. Cumin was used to mummify Egyptian pharaohs. The Bible both the New as the Old Testaments contains references to cumin. It was associated with being thrifty with money in Roman times. Marcus Aurelius, the Roman Emperor (161-182 AD), was known as Marcus Cuminus by his subjects because he was not willing to spend money. Cumin was used to make bread in the Middle Ages. It was believed that a lover would stay faithful if he ate this bread. It was carried by soldiers for luck, and it was also given to people who fed it to chickens in the belief that it would keep them safe from wandering off (Great American Spice Company 2020). Cumin was considered a symbol for fidelity by the Hindus. In 13th-century England, cumin was used for rent payment. According to records, King Henry III of England, who ruled from 1216-1272 bought 20 pounds at a given time, (Maskevich 2015). Cumin was one of many spices brought to America by Spanish and Portuguese traders who sailed to the New World in 15th century. Cumin, also known as comino in the Southwest US, South America, and Middle American cultures, was quickly incorporated into their culinary repertoires.

Early history revealed that cumin had medicinal uses. Cumin was used by early Egyptians to relieve pain and treat chest and digestive problems. According to fourth- and fifth-century BC Greek medical texts, cumin was used to treat hysteria and women's reproductive issues. Cumin was used medicinally throughout the Middle Ages. Cumin is still used in Ayurvedic medicine to stimulate digestion. It is also prescribed for dyspepsia and colic. It is still used in Chinese and Egyptian herbal medicine.

The real value of cumin lies in its use as culinary spice. Cumin recipes can be found in old cookbooks that date back to 1750 BC (Bailey 2022). Cumin loses its flavor as it ages so it is best to purchase cumin in small quantities, and then replace it frequently. Cumin can be lightly toasted in an oven before being ground in a mortar-and-pestle or spice grinder to get maximum flavor (Kreighbaum 2022). Spice blends that include cumin include curry powder, chili powder and garam masala.

Cumin is a spice that's always available at a table in some part of the world, according to some. Here are some of the uses for cumin:

Indian Cuisine: Use it in curries and dals, rice and ghee as well as other traditional dishes
Middle Eastern Cuisine: Tastes of kebabs and lentils as well as bean dishes
Mexican cuisine: The key ingredient in moles and enchiladas
Mediterranean Cuisine: Enhances the flavor of meat dishes, vegetables and bread
North African cuisine: Traditional dishes, stews, and flavors tagines
Caribbean cuisine: Seasons of jerk chicken, curry goat
Chinese cuisine: Use with lamb in the northern and western provinces
American cuisine: Use it in Tex-Mex, chili, guacamole and tacos. Also, to flavor everything, from vegetables to meats

Joel Robuchon (a Michelin-starred chef) once stated that "one should eat cumin everyday" (Kuan 2020). Remember that when you add it to your dishes, you are doing the exact same thing as people did in the beginning of recorded history.

Additional information and recipes about cumin can be found at the Herb Society's Herb of the month webpage.

Medicinal Disclaimer. It is against the policy of The Herb Society of America, Inc. to recommend or advise herbs for medical or health purposes. This information should not be construed as a recommendation of or endorsement of any medical or health treatment. Before you try any herbal treatment, please consult your doctor.

Credits: 1)Cumin flowers (Herbolario Allilum via Wikimedia); 2) Cumin seed (courtesy of the writer); 3) Mummifications (Andre via Flickr); and 4) Cookbook for papyrus, 300 AD, Public Domain; Indian cumin rice, Monali.mishra via Wikimedia

Refers

Bailey, Natasha. 2022. This country is home to most of the world's cumin. Accessed February 6, 23. Available from https://www.tastingtable.com/1067263/most-of-the-worlds-cumin-comes-from-this-country/

Great American Spice Company 2020. Here are some fun facts about cumin. Accessed February 6, 23. Available from https://www.americanspice.com/blogs/fun-facts-on-cumin/

Kreighbaum, Lindsay. 2022. What is cumin? Accessed February 6, 23. Available from https://www.thespruceeats.com/what-is-cumin-995638

Kuan, Diana. 2020. Rethinking our relationship to cumin. Accessed February 6, 23. Available from https://tastecooking.com/rethinking-our-relationship-with-cumin/

Maskevich, Adam. Cumin has spiced up the world, from ancient Sumeria to Chipoltle tacos. Accessed February 23, 2003. Available from https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2015/03/11/392317352/is-cumin-the-most-globalized-spice-in-the-world

Urban Farmer. 2018. A beginner's guide for growing cumin: From seed to harvest Accessed January 17, 23. Available from https://www.ufseeds.com/on/demandware.static/-/Sites-UrbanFarmer-Library/default/dwd5834346/images/content/Instructions-for-Growing-Cumin.pdf

Maryann is The Herb Society of America's Secretary and a Texas Master Gardener. She is also a member the Texas Thyme Unit of The Society in Huntsville, TX. Maryann is also certified Native Landscape Specialist. She also lectures on herbs and plants, and she does herb training for Master Gardener programs. She grows pines in East Texas' Piney Woods.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between basil and oregano?

Both of these herbs belong to the Lamiaceae family. They share similar flavors, but the differences are obvious.

Oregano is more pungent than basil. It also adds an extra layer of flavor to foods.

Basil leaves are smaller than oregano leaves. They are also softer and less aromatic.

The two herbs are often used interchangeably. Although they are quite similar, each has its distinctive qualities.

What are the side effects of basil?

Basil is an herb that originated in tropical regions of India, Africa, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Thailand, Philippines, Mexico, Puerto Rico, Jamaica, Costa Rica, Panama, Colombia, Venezuela, Brazil, Peru, Ecuador, Bolivia, Paraguay, Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile.

The plant is easy to grow in most climates and requires little maintenance. Basil also thrives in poor soil conditions and is very drought tolerant.

As for the health benefits, more than 200 known compounds are found in basil, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, lignans, polysaccharides, essential oils, vitamins, and minerals.

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, basil contains powerful anti-inflammatory properties which may help relieve symptoms associated with arthritis, asthma, allergies, bronchitis, cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, digestive disorders, depression, eczema, insomnia, infections, migraines, osteoporosis, psoriasis, respiratory problems, stress, and ulcers.

Basil is also a culinary spice and is often added to tomato sauces, soups, salads, pasta dishes, rice dishes, dips, casseroles, pizza toppings, pesto, chicken wings, and popcorn.

However, like all herbs, basil should be consumed in moderation. Too much of anything is not good for you. For example, eating large amounts of basil could lead to stomach upset. And if you have sensitive tummies, avoid consuming basil during pregnancy.

If you are pregnant or nursing, consult your doctor before taking herbal supplements.

You should only take one type of supplement at a time. If you take other medications, make sure they do not interact with each other.

You should never use herbs while on medication unless directed by your doctor.

Some people experience allergic reactions when using herbs, especially those allergic to ragweed. Symptoms include hives, swelling around the mouth or eyes, shortness of breath, chest tightness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, headaches, dizziness, fainting, heart palpitations, blurred vision, loss of consciousness, seizures, or even death.

Some people who take certain medications may develop an allergy to basil. These drugs include:

Antacids (like Alka Seltzer)
Anti-anxiety medicines (Valium, Xanax, Ativan, etc.)
Beta-blockers (like Propranolol)
Blood thinners (like Coumadin)
Calcium channel blockers (like Amlodipine)
Cholesterol-lowering drugs (like Lipitor, Zocor, Mevacor, and Pravachol)
Diabetes medicine (like Glucophage)
Diuretics (like Lasix)
Heartburn medicines (like Prilosec OTC)
Hormone therapy (like Premarin, Tamoxifen, Femara)
Insulin (like Humalog, Lantus, Novolin R)
NSAIDs (like Aleve, Motrin, Advil, Excedrin, Tylenol, Ibuprofen)
Oral contraceptives (like Ortho Evra, Yasmin, Loestrin, Ovrette, Yaz, and Seasonale)
Pain relievers (like Aspirin, Celebrex, Vicodin, Percodan, Darvocet, Dilaudid, Fiorinal, Tylenol 3s, Naproxen, Motrin, Tramadol, Ultram, Voltaren

How do you make medicinal herbs?

There are many different methods to make herbs into medicinal products. The most common method is to dry the herbs in a warm, dark location before grinding them into a powder or extracting their essential oils. This can be accomplished by hanging herbs upside down in bunches, laying herbs on a drying screen, or using a food dehydrator.

Once dried and ground, herbs can be stored in airtight containers for future use. Other herbs may require special preparation, such as infusing herbs into oil or vinegar, making tinctures with alcohol, or distilling herbs to create essential oils.

Learning the correct techniques for preparing herbs can help ensure that they retain their medicinal properties and potency for optimal health benefits. Using fresh herbs is usually best, but herbs can also be grown in a pot or garden and harvested when they are mature. Herbs can be purchased at health food stores, online retailers, and specialty shops.

No matter where herbs come from, the preparation techniques remain the same; drying herbs in a warm location followed by grinding or extracting the essential oils. You can make your medicinal herbs with the right herbs and preparation techniques.

When making herbal preparations, it is essential to remember that herbs can vary in potency, so always dilute herbs before use or follow the directions on any product label. Additionally, herbs are best used fresh, as many of their beneficial components degrade over time.

Following safety guidelines and paying attention to the potency of herbs can help ensure that you get the most benefit from your herbs. With a bit of practice and preparation, anyone can make therapeutic herbs with medicinal properties. Remember that herbs should never replace any medical advice or treatments prescribed by a doctor. Always consult a licensed healthcare professional before using herbs medicinally.

What herbs should you take daily?

Depending on your health and wellness needs, many herbs can be taken daily to help improve your overall health.

Popular herbs for daily consumption include ashwagandha, turmeric, ginger, holy basil, chamomile, lavender, peppermint, and cayenne pepper. Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that can help the body resist stress and anxiety. Turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, while ginger has been shown to aid digestion and boost immunity. Holy basil may help with managing blood sugar levels, as well as providing a calming effect. Chamomile can promote relaxation, while lavender is used in aromatherapy for its calming properties. Peppermint can help aid digestion and reduce nausea, while cayenne pepper has antibacterial properties that may boost your immunity.

As always, you must consult your doctor before taking herbs daily to ensure they are safe for you and do not interact with any other medications or herbs you may be taking.

There is no shortage of information on what foods we should eat and how much exercise we should do. But when it comes to what supplements we should take, there is a dearth of knowledge.

This is because most of us aren’t sure which ones work or which are junk. So we go online and look up whatever we can find.

But often, these articles are written by companies trying to promote their products. Which means they're usually biased toward their product.

So instead of finding unbiased advice, we end up reading marketing hype.

This makes sense since marketers make more money selling stuff than doctors.

The medical industry isn’t even allowed to advertise directly to consumers anymore. The best way to learn about natural remedies is to read independent reviews.

This is where you'll find real users sharing their experiences with each supplement. These sites give you an honest opinion of whether or not a particular herb helps.

Users will often share their experience with a supplement after taking it. This gives you a good idea of its effectiveness and any side effects.

You can also check out forums dedicated to herbalism. Here you can ask questions and receive answers based on personal experience.

Of course, there are plenty of other ways to learn about herbs.

There are books, websites, blogs, videos, podcasts, and classes. All of them provide valuable information about natural remedies.

Statistics

Herbs are among the most popular and widely used medicinal remedies. According to a survey conducted by the National Institutes of Health, herbs were used by over 38% of adults in the United States.
For those with high cholesterol, garlic supplementation appears to reduce total and/or LDL cholesterol by about 10-15% (72Trusted Source73Trusted (healthline.com)

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How To

How to use herbs safely?

Many people think that herbs should only be used under medical supervision because they believe that some herbs are poisonous. However, this is not true.

Many herbs have long histories of safe use. For example, garlic has been used for thousands of years to fight infections. It's also been shown to lower cholesterol levels and reduce high blood pressure.

However, if you're pregnant or nursing, avoid taking certain herbs. You should also avoid them if you suffer from allergies or sensitivities to herbs.

You can do several things to ensure you get the best results from your herbs and supplements. First, always read labels before consuming anything containing herbs or spices. Second, take the lowest dose recommended on the label. Third, don't use more than one supplement at any given time. Fourth, talk to your doctor about how to combine specific herbs and supplements. Finally, keep track of your consumption to know whether you need to adjust your dosage.