Health Benefits of Caraway

Caraway, is one of the most commonly used spices in savory dishes. This herb has a strong aroma and is majorly grown in Europe, Asia and North Africa. This plant blooms once every two years with creamy flowers. This plant has small feathery leaves with about two feet of height. Talking about caraway seeds, they are brown in color and crescent in shape. To avoid spilling the seeds during harvest, this work is done during the early hours of the day. These seeds have a lot of health benefits which is why it is used extensively all over the world.

Primary Use of this herb

Caraway is normally used in cosmetics because of its fragrance. It is always used in cases where one needs to improve digestion and relieve spasms in digestive system.

Nutritional and Chemical content in Caraway

The nutrients present in Caraway are listed below:

1. Calcium
2. Magnesium
3. Phosphorus
4. Sodium
5. Zinc
6. Copper
7. Manganese
8. Vitamin A
9. Vitamin B
10. Vitamin C
11. Iron
12. Vitamin E
13. Carotene
14. Lutein
15. Zeaxanthin

Health Benefits of Caraway

1. Lowers Cholesterol levels

   As this herb helps in decreasing the cholesterol levels in our body, so it is very useful in preventing cardiovascular diseases like heart arrest, blockage in arteries etc.

2. Preventing ageing

   As this herb has detoxifying properties, it reduces the appearance of signs of ageing like fine lines, wrinkles and dark spots.

3. Boosts immunity

   Intake of this herb leads to reduction in exhaustion of T-cells. Increase in number of these cells leads to reduction in strain on one’s immune system. Therefore, immunity increases and protects one against infections.

4. Good for pregnant women

   This herb has many properties that make it beneficial for pregnant women.

5. Helps in boosting sex life

   Having this herb can prevent impotency in males as this herb is known to increase sperm production.

6. Helps in preventing respiratory diseases

   Caraway is known popularly for curing respiratory diseases like clearing cough, preventing congestion and acts as potent carminative.

7. Keeps digestive system healthy

   This herb is known to possess qualities that prevent mild gastrointestinal spasms and are beneficial in keeping the entire digestive system healthy. It prevents occurrence of gases, constipation, nausea and vomiting.

8. Keeps menstruation cycle regular

   Persian cumin helps in keeping menstruation cycle regular and reduces the pain occurring due to cramps in this time period.

How to use:

Caraway is used in many ways, out of which major ones are listed below:

1. The caraway seeds are eaten dry as snacks. These seeds are also sprinkled on baked products to add to taste.
2. Caraway seed oil is also used for curing fungal infections.
3. Many people make tea using Caraway seeds and leaves and have it instead of normal tea.

Caution

Caraway is usually taken for starting menstruation and so it should be avoided by all the pregnant and breastfeeding women. Also, diabetic patients should be careful while having this herb as it is known to lower sugar levels in the blood.