Ajwain

Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi), a member of the Apiaceae family - the same one as cumin, coriander, and parsley - has tiny, ridged, and oval seeds that impart a strong and intense flavour that is similar to thyme. This flavour can be found in many cuisines in India, the Middle East, and North Africa.
Ajwain contains medicinal properties from thymol, which gives it the solid, pungent aromatic property and is thus used as the drug in the Ayurvedic, Unani, and Siddha systems of medicines for the management of gastrointestinal problems, infection, and respiratory disorders.

Ajwain is known by different names around the world:

• Carom seeds (English)
• Bishop's Weed (English)
• Omam (Tamil)
• Ajmo (Gujarati)
• Yavani (Sanskrit)

How is Ajwain Made?

Ajwain is mainly grown from the seeds of the Trachyspermum ammi plant. These spices thrive in dry and semi-dry climates, so regions like India, Egypt, and parts of the Middle East are ideally suited to planting them. The plant prefers well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight, reaching its full height at about 90 cm.

The cultivation starts by sowing seeds in the cooler months- from October to November. Ajwain prefers adequate watering when the growth is in its initial stages, but it tolerates some dry weather once it gets established. About 90-120 days after planting, the plant bears small white flowers enclosing the seeds.

Mature and dry mature flowers have their seeds removed. It can either be done manually or mechanically. Ajwain can also reproduce by cutting, though this is rarely practised.

Post-harvesting, the seeds are sun-dried to remove moisture, cleaned to remove impurities, and stored in airtight containers for freshness and potency. Thus, careful handling ensures proper flavour retention and medicinal value when used in culinary and therapeutic areas.

Ajwain leaves benefits range widely. Ajwain consists of many phytochemicals, giving them flavour and benefits to human health. 

• Thymol: This is the essential oil which gives Ajwain its smell. This oil is well known for acting as an antimicrobial in controlling harmful bacteria and fungi. It helps stimulate gastric secretions, aiding in digestion and relieving bloating.
• Carvacrol: This compound has been proven to have antifungal and antibacterial powers. Carvacrol aids the promotion of gut health and possibly enhances the general immune system function.
• Flavonoids: These radicals neutralise antioxidants that considerably contribute to the balance of free radicals in the human body, thus possibly reducing oxidative stress and lowering the risk of chronic diseases.
• Alkaloids: These are part of Ajwain's therapeutic effects, including pain relief and anti-inflammatory.
• Saponins: Identified as reducing inflammation, leaves containing saponins may alleviate conditions such as arthritis and other inflammatory disorders.

Ajwain seeds are not only flavourful but also highly nutritious. Here's the nutrient breakdown per 100 grams of ajwain:

Ajwain seeds have numerous health benefits, some of which have been scientifically proven. Some of the ajwain benefits are discussed below:

1. Digestive Aid

Ajwain is famous as a digestive aid. The thymol in ajwain seeds stimulates the flow of gastric juices, thereby aiding digestion and helping to relieve symptoms like bloating and indigestion. Studies indicated the effectiveness of ajwain in alleviating digestive discomfort and quickening digestion.

2. Respiratory Relief

Ajwain has been used for decades to support the management of respiratory diseases such as asthma, bronchitis, and the common cold. The seeds have lubricating properties that loosen mucus and keep it from sticking around the airways. It has some broncholytic effects in easing asthma, according to various studies that label it as an antispasmodic drug.

3. Antimicrobial Properties

The ajwain seeds contain thymol, making them highly antibacterial and antifungal. The effectiveness of ajwain in the inhibition of destructive bacteria like Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus and fungi like Candida albicans has been demonstrated in some research, making it practical for infection remedies.

4. Pain-Relieving Agent

Ajwain can manage pain associated with arthritis, headache, or toothache. Crushing the ajwain seeds and creating a paste, then applying it directly on the aching parts, helps reduce inflammation and simultaneously removes the ache.

5. Blood Pressure Regulation

Ajwain seeds may help reduce blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels and improving circulation. Preliminary results suggest that the vasodilatory action of ajwain may prove beneficial in controlling hypertension.

6. Weight Loss

Ajwain helps an individual lose weight by improving metabolism and reducing water retention. Some studies reveal that ajwain accelerates the metabolism of fat tissue, which helps in the easy management of body weight.

7. Heart Health

The antioxidants – flavonoids and carvacrol in ajwain seeds can lower oxidative stress and inflammation, thus facilitating a healthy heart. Besides this, studies have indicated that ajwain helps decrease cholesterol levels, further helping cardiovascular health.

Ajwain is widely used in the kitchen and holds various medicinal values:

Culinary Use

Ajwain is a spice used in Indian cuisine to provide a beautiful taste. Some of the culinary uses are as follows.

• Parathas: Ajwain to dough is added, giving a delicate tangy flavour and smooth digestion.
• Curries: A pinch of ajwain may be added to vegetable and meat curries to enhance their flavour.
• Snacks: Ajwain is added as a primary spice in many snacks, such as pakoras and kachoris, which adds a unique flavour to fried foods.

Traditional Medicinal Use

Ajwain has been documented as one of the oldest herbal spices used for
treating several health ailments: In Ayurveda, ajwain is considered a Vata-balancing spice, with the potential to manage digestive issues, respiratory problems, and even ear pain. It is often combined with other herbs like fennel and ginger for enhanced therapeutic effects.

• Digestive Issues: The spice has been used for ages due to its carminative properties and proves beneficial in suppressing gas, bloating, and indigestion.
• Respiratory Conditions: It is added to various herbal remedies to treat cough and bronchitis due to its antimicrobial properties.
• Anti-inflammatory: One of the carom seed benefits is that Ajwain is said to reduce inflammation, as it may be helpful in arthritis and other inflammatory diseases.

External Uses

There are multiple Ajwain uses. Ajwain seeds are powdered, made into a paste and applied to the skin to help relieve joint pain or headache. The anti-inflammatory property of ajwain makes it helpful in managing arthritis and other conditions caused by inflammation.

While ajwain is safe for most people, it's essential to be mindful of a few precautions:

• Pregnancy: Pregnant women should be kept away from ajwain, though it is readily digested, and excessive intake can cause uterine contractions that result in birth defects and miscarriages. Ajwain in pregnancy should be taken only within the recommended dosage. 
• Breastfeeding: Nursing mothers can take ajwain to enhance lactation, but excess amounts may cause some digestive upset.
• Underlying health conditions: Patients having an underlying medical condition like gastrointestinal disorders, hypertension, etc, or those having surgery done in themselves should first consult the doctor before consuming ajwain.
• Allergic Reactions: People with known allergies to any member of the Apiaceae family should be more vigilant because this herb can trigger allergic reactions in sensitive individuals.

Ajwain can be used in traditional and modern cooking methods, adding flavour and health benefits to dishes. Here's how:

Ajwain in Parathas and Bread

Dough Preparation: Add whole wheat flour with your favourite kind of flour and a pinch of salt in a vessel.

• Ajwain: 1-2 teaspoons of ajwain seeds for flavor.
• Dough kneading: Gradually add some water to it and knead till you get a soft dough. Leave it for about 15-30 minutes.
• Roll and Fry: Prepare a small ball, then roll it like a disc. Fry till golden brown on both sides in a hot tava or skillet.

Ajwain in Curries and Sauces

Toasting Oil: Heat oil or ghee in a pan over medium heat.

• Ajwain: After heating, add one teaspoon of Ajwain seeds to it. Let it sizzle for some seconds to change colour and yield a nice fragrance flavour.
• Sauté Other Ingredients: In a pan, add chopped onions, garlic, and other spices, and sauté until they are golden brown.
• Add Main Ingredients: Add your main ingredients, be it lentils, vegetables, or meat. Let them cook based on the recipe you're using, and the ajwain will be able to shine through.

Ajwain Water

Following these steps would guide one in preparing Ajwain water.

• Boil Water: Boil 2 cups of water in a saucepan.
• Add Ajwain: Mix in 1-2 teaspoons of ajwain seeds.
• Simmer: Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Strain and Serve: Pour it into a cup. You can add a little honey or squeeze a small amount of lemon juice if you have to take it that way. Drink it warm to soothe your stomach.

Ajwain Herbal Tea

• Boil Water: Steep 1-2 cups of water in a teapot or saucepan.
• Ajwain Seeds: Put 1 teaspoon of Ajwain seeds in the boiling water.
• Steeping Time: Steep for about 5-10 minutes to bring out all of its flavours and benefits.
• Strain and Enjoy: Strain this tea into a cup; add honey or ginger to make it taste good or get more health benefits.

The general dosage for Ajwain is given based on its use:

• Culinary use: 1-2 teaspoons Ajwain can be added to curries and breads.
• Medicinal Use: This seed is mainly taken to manage indigestion. For this purpose, one teaspoon of ajwain seeds is taken with warm water. This ajwain water helps those individuals who have problems with the gut.

This is especially the case with long-term or high doses, so a consultation with a healthcare provider is required in most medicinal settings.

Ajwain interacts with several prescription drugs and has to be used carefully. Some of its interactions include:

1. Hypertension medication: Ajwain may help lower blood pressure, interact with antihypertensive drugs, and contribute to hypotension.
2. Anticoagulants and antiplatelet medications: Ajwain delays blood clotting; hence, the mechanism is thought to increase the risk of bleeding when combined with warfarin.
3. Medications for diabetes: Ajwain will lower blood sugar levels. Some antidiabetic drugs might be more potent and might be accompanied by a need to check blood sugar regularly.
4. Anti-Gastrointestinal Medications: Since ajwain acts on the digestive system, it may interact with other medications for gastrointestinal problems.

Always consult a healthcare provider before using ajwain, especially if you're on medication, to ensure safety and avoid adverse interactions.

• Ajwain plays a vital role in both culinary style and medicinal front, especially in the digestive system.
• Indeed, lots of people have benefited from these pills, but they should be closely monitored as they are taken so as not to cause side effects like heartburn or when mixed with some pharmaceuticals.
• Warning: Always seek the opinion of a healthcare professional if you are using Ajwain supplements, especially if you have other ailments.

Conclusion

Ajwain, with its distinctive aroma and powerful health benefits, holds a special place in both kitchens and traditional medicine cabinets. Its rich thymol content lends not only a sharp flavour but also therapeutic properties that aid in digestion, relieve gas, and support respiratory health. Used in various forms, from spice blends to herbal teas, Ajwain is more than just a culinary ingredient; it is a time-tested natural remedy. With its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, Ajwain continues to be a trusted household staple for promoting overall well-being in a natural way.