Ajwain and jeera water can be a great addition to any healthy diet. Find out 7 health benefits of drinking it.
If you are looking to lose weight or get rid of bloating, there is one drink that can help prevent several problems at once. You should try ajwain and jeera water! When combined with water, these seeds have a number of benefits for your overall health. Ajwain, or carbo, seeds are rich in essential oils and compounds that are beneficial for your digestion. Including these seeds can help relieve bloating, gas, and indigestion, making them a popular home remedy for indigestion. On the other hand, jeera, or caraway, seeds are known for their antioxidant properties and ability to support digestion. They can help improve appetite, reduce inflammation, and aid in weight management. Here are some of the benefits of jeera and ajwain water and how to make it at home.
What is ajwain and jeera water?
Ajwain and jeera is a traditional Indian drink that is made by boiling carom seeds (ajwain) and cumin seeds (jeera) in water. “This mixture is often consumed for its digestive and health benefits. Both ajwain and jeera are spices that are commonly used in Indian dishes for their strong aroma and medicinal properties. When these seeds are boiled in water, they release essential oils and active compounds that contribute to the health benefits of the drink,” says nutritionist Susmita N.
7 Health Benefits of Ajwain and Jeera Water
There are several reasons why you should include ajwain and jeera in your diet, including:
1. Improves digestion
Cumin seeds and carob seeds contain essential oils and other properties that can stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes, helping to break down food. Cumin seeds are known to improve digestion by stimulating the secretion of gastric juices, as found in a study published in International Journal of Medical Research and Health Sciences. Ajwain seeds, on the other hand, have carminative properties that help reduce bloating and gas according to a study published in International Biochemistry ResearchWhen mixed with water, these spices make a refreshing and filling drink that helps relieve stomach problems and improve nutrient absorption.
2. Reduces acidity
Water made from cumin and ajwain can help reduce acidity by neutralizing excess stomach acid. Cumin or cumin seeds contain compounds that can help reduce acidity gastric juice, as was found in a study published in Middle Eastern Journal of Digestive DiseasesAccording to a study published in the journal, ajwain or carbuncle seeds have carminative properties that can help reduce gas and bloating. International Biochemistry Researchwhich can contribute to increased acidity. When combined with water, these spices create a soothing drink that can relieve symptoms such as heartburn and upset stomach.
3. Helps in weight loss
Jeera and ajwain can help boost your metabolism, helping you burn more calories. “By improving digestion, jeera and ajwain water can help prevent bloating and gas, which can sometimes contribute to weight gain. The spices in the water can help reduce appetite, leading to lower calorie intake. Additionally, cumin and carob seeds are known for their detoxifying properties, which can help flush out toxins and excess water,” says the expert. These spices can also help you feel fuller for longer, reducing food cravings and preventing overeating, thus helping you lose weight effectively.
4. Improves respiratory health
“Jeera and ajwain water may help improve respiratory health due to their anti-inflammatory properties. The compounds in these spices may help reduce inflammation in the airways, making them useful for people with conditions such as asthma and bronchitis. They can also help thin mucus and phlegm, making it easier to remove from the lungs,” the expert says. This can lead to improved breathing and reduced congestion.
5. Regulates blood sugar levels
Caraway and carbuncle seeds are believed to help regulate blood sugar levels due to their antidiabetic properties, as found in studies published in International Journal of Medical Research and Health Sciences And Journal of Pharmaceutics and Biotechnology. These spices can help increase insulin sensitivity, allowing the body to use glucose properly. Additionally, they can help reduce glucose absorption, which helps avoid blood sugar spikes after meals. While these spices may offer some benefits for blood sugar control, they should not be considered a substitute for diabetes medication.
6. Relieves menstrual pain.
“Ajwain and jeera water can help relieve menstrual pain because of their anti-inflammatory properties. The compounds in these spices can help reduce inflammation in the uterus and surrounding tissues, which can contribute to menstrual pain. Additionally, they can help relax the muscles of the uterus, which can also help reduce cramping,” explains the expert. Drinking water with ajwain and jeera during menstruation can ease discomfort and improve overall well-being.
7. Increases immunity
Ajwain and jeera water can boost immunity due to its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are compounds that help protect cells from free radical damage, which can lead to various health problems, including decreased immunity. Research published in Nuts and Seeds for Health and Disease Prevention And Journal of Medicinal Plant ResearchCaraway and ajwain seeds contain antioxidants that can help strengthen the immune system, helping the body fight infections.
How to make ajwain and jeera at home?
Here's a simple guide to making ajwain and jeera water at home, suggested by an expert.
Ingredients:
- 1 teaspoon ajwain or carom seeds
- 1 teaspoon cumin or caraway seeds
- 2 glasses of water
Method:
- Start by bringing 2 cups of water to a boil in a saucepan.
- Once the water boils, add 1 teaspoon ajwain and 1 teaspoon cumin to the boiling water.
- Reduce heat and let the water simmer for about 5-10 minutes. This will allow the seeds to release their essential oils and active compounds into the water.
- Turn off the heat and let the water cool slightly. Strain the water into a glass to remove the seeds.
- Your ajwain and jeera water is ready to drink. It is best to drink it warm, preferably on an empty stomach in the morning for maximum benefits.
Side effects of ajwain and jeera
Jeera and ajwain water are generally safe to consume. However, as the expert noted, there are potential side effects.
- Gastrointestinal problems: Excessive consumption of ajwain and jeera may lead to problems like nausea, vomiting or diarrhea.
- Allergic reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions such as skin rash, itching, or breathing problems after drinking this drink.
- Heartburn: Although ajwain is used to treat acidity, it can cause heartburn, especially if consumed in large quantities.
- Liver toxicity: Excessive consumption of ajwain, in particular, can lead to liver toxicity.
- Lowering blood sugar levels: Although cumin may help regulate blood sugar levels, consuming too much can cause blood sugar levels to drop too low, which can be dangerous for people with diabetes.
Who should avoid consuming ajwain and jeera?
The following individuals should avoid drinking this beverage for the following reasons.
- Pregnant women: In particular, ajwain or ajwain seeds can stimulate uterine contractions and, if consumed in large quantities, can lead to complications during pregnancy.
- People with ulcers: Ulcers are open sores which develop in the lining of the stomach, small intestine, or esophagus. Ajwain or ajmak seeds are strong and can irritate the stomach lining, which can worsen ulcers. Ulcers can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, heartburn, nausea, and vomiting. If left untreated, ulcers can lead to complications such as bleeding, perforation, and obstruction.
- People with allergies: Some people may be allergic to camonga or cumin seeds, which may cause adverse reactions.
- People with liver disease: Ajwain can aggravate liver diseases due to its strong properties, so it should be consumed with caution.
- Children: Ajwain is very effective, and although small doses may be safe, it is best to consult a doctor before giving it to young children.
Thus, it is always recommended to consume ajwain and jeera in moderation and consult your doctor if you have any health concerns.