The onset of monsoon may bring with it a flurry of digestive problems. Bloating, acidity, stomach ache, and sluggish digestion are among the common complaints during the season. Ayurveda recommends having cumin (Cuminum cyminum L. ) for fixing gut health issues. Charak Samhita has described cumin as ‘shoola prashamana maha kashaya‘ or the spice that can help relieve pain. The spice has also been used to cure indigestion since ancient times.
Inexpensive and easy to use, cumin seed is a common kitchen spice that is available in all Indian households. No Indian curry is complete without a ‘jeera ka tadka’ and one of the reasons behind adding the spice to the tempering is its digestive and antimicrobial properties.
Ayurveda expert Dr Partap Chauhan says the spice is celebrated in Ayurveda for its ability to strengthen the digestive fire. The Ayurvedacharya and Founder of Jiva Ayurveda strongly recommends the spice during rainy season. He also shares his views on whether one should sip cumin water or chew roasted cumin seeds for gut health.
The role of cumin in digestion
“Ayurveda describes cumin, or jeera, as a spice that balances Vata and Kapha while mildly stimulating Pitta. This makes it particularly effective in easing bloating, flatulence, and sluggish digestion. Modern studies also highlight its carminative and antioxidant properties, which means it can reduce gas and aid nutrient absorption. But the form you choose to consume makes a noticeable difference in its action,” Chauhan told Financial Express.com.
The properties of cumin water: Gentle and soothing
“When you soak or boil cumin seeds in water, their volatile oils and bioactive compounds are slowly released. Drinking this water on an empty stomach is light on your system. It works well if you often face acidity, nausea, or a burning sensation after meals,” says the Ayurveda expert.
Chauhan says since the infusion is mild, it is suitable for those with sensitive stomachs or for children under medical guidance.
The properties of roasted cumin: Stronger digestive stimulus
Roasting cumin changes its properties slightly, making the spice warmer and sharper.
“Chewing roasted cumin seeds after meals is a traditional practice across many Indian households. It is especially helpful when you feel heavy after food or have recurring,” he says.
The Ayurveda expert says children or those with sensitive stomach must have jeera water while others can simply chew the roasted seeds.
Ipsita Chakravarti, HOD-Dietetics at CMRI Kolkata told Financial Express.com that though both cumin water and roasted cumin are digestion-friendly, the former may have additional benefits for relieving bloating and easing digestion.
“Cumin water is better for digestion and hydration whereas, roasted cumin has its own nutty flavour. it gives an aroma to the cooked food, says the expert.
“Cumin water is excellent for easing digestion and relieve bloating. That’s because when the seed is soaked in the water for a prolonged hours, it releases beneficial compounds of the cumin. As that water is consumed in the morning or after soaking for a long hours, say at least 6-7 hours, it has a positive impact on the gut,” says Chakravarti.
Verdict
Chakravarti says cumin water is better than roasted cumin when consumed on an empty stomach as it aids in stimulating digestive enzymes, balances stomach acids and relieve bloating, acidity and indigestion.
“Consuming cumin water early morning also provides good nutrition, good hydration while also acting as a detox water. So if I consider both, cumin water has a positive impact on digestion and is good for gut,” concludes the expert.
