T.L.C Ajwain History and Background
The species Carum Copticum or Trachyspermum Ammi, also known as Ajwain, Ajowan, Ajwan, Jowan, Yavan, Carom, Caraway, Bishop’s Weed, Omam, and Thymol Seed. The herb is part of the family Apiaceae. It is believed the plant originated in India and parts of China but has been found to thrive in the Eastern Mediterranean. Now the aromatic seeds are commercially available for culinary purposes such as pickling, cuisines, teas, candies, beverages and curries. Both the seed and the leaves are harvested for their many beneficial uses.
Ajwain seeds contain many vitamins, minerals, nutrients, fibers and antioxidants and are rich in potassium, calcium, iron, essential fatty acids, phosphorous and even Vitamin B. In addition, the seeds also contain tannins, polyphenols, flavonoids, saponins, glycosides and phenols. All good things must come in moderation. Keep in mind the daily serving size is low due to health factors we cover later in the article.
With the many nutritious benefits, it’s hard to believe that Ajwain can offer more. A few of the coveted medicinal properties of the herb come from its beneficial oil. The seed contains an essential oil, Ajwain oil, containing thymol, carvacrol, phenol, gamma-terpinene, p-cymene, terpenoids and other compounds. Thymol gives the seed its antifungal antibacterial properties and has many medicinal uses.
Cultivation and Harvest
Ajwain is an annual best grown from February through October depending on location. The plant prefers the climate of plant zones 5 – 9 according to the USDA. The plant thrives at 68 – 86 °F (20-30 °C) temperatures. Plant the seeds a quarter inch deep in rich potting soil scattering approximately 2 – 3 inches apart. To help extend the growing season sow the plant indoors in a pot and bring outside during warmer temperatures.
Ajwain prefers full to partial sun providing typically 1-4 hours of direct sunlight daily. Once plant is well established, Ajwain is a low maintenance herb, similar to a succulent, it prefers dry barren soil. It is best not to overwater, only watering when soil looks dry. Harvest the flowers and leaves to seven weeks after germination, typically late summer. Leaves are plucked typically when they develop fine hairs on the surface.
Ajwain Identification
Ajwain is an erect herb that can grow up to one – three feet tall. The plant typically is a tangle of 2-3 pinnate leaves and a branchy striate stem which when flowering is covers the plant in an umbrella of small white flowers similar to Queen Annes Lace. The plant produces small oval fruits called schizocarp which are yellowish brown with light yellow stripes. As the fruit ripens the shell splits open revealing grayish brown seeds resembling caraway and fennel seeds. The seeds are very aromatic with a pungent taste like Anise but they smell like Thyme due to containing thymol.
Medicinal Properties of Ajwain
Ajwain has long been in use for its medicinal benefits. Traditionally the Ajwain seed has been used as a digestive aid for abdominal discomfort, intestinal gas and indigestion, bloating, peptic ulcers, esophageal soars, for upset stomach, intestinal gas, and as an appetite stimulant. The seed is ingested, infused in tinctures, crushed or as a powder prepared in a meal, in tea or boiled to make Ajwain water (oma). Dried powdered seed can be mixed into milk to treat infant colic, indigestion issues and may help digestion and appetite. The dosage should be confirmed with your family doctor.
The Ajwain seeds contain Thymol which has antifungal and antimicrobial properties leading to the use of the herb for many various ailments. The seeds have been used to treat coughs, the cold and flu, sore throats, clear up mucus, and even bronchitis. It can also be used as an aid to treat worms and parasites.
Thymol also has anti-inflammatory properties that have been put to good use as well including to reduce symptoms of mild Asthma, skin conditions and arthritic pain. The seed can be crushed or used as a powdered paste which can be topically applied to the skin or in a bath for skin infections, irritations including redness and burning and psoriasis. It can help reduce toothache and earaches as well. A mouth wash can be made and used to help improve overall oral health since it helps to fight bacteria and fungi.
Thymol has been used to aid in the reduction of blood pressure. It helps block calcium from entering blood vessels of the heart which helps to lower blood pressure.
Other Uses for Ajwain
One of the great benefits of Ajwain comes from its aromatic nature and its uses as a seasoning for culinary purposes worldwide. Roasting or frying the seed before use to brings out and develops the hot, bitter flavor. The seed is used whole, crushed or powdered and added to chutneys, sauces, jams and also in pickling. It makes a great topping for breads and flavoring in dishes with chicken, fish, beans, curries, lentils, soups, rice, vegetables and much more.
Along with culinary and health benefits Ajwain has been used magically and spiritually in folklore for healing and prosperity. According to Feng Shui the seed is a spiritual symbol for wealth and health. A few cultures burn the seed as incense for cleansing and purifying energy in your surroundings. The smoke is believed to ward off and dispel negative energies. Bathing in water infused with the Ajwain seed is believed to cleanse and remove spiritual impurities and provide healing. The aroma from the incense is believed to have a calming effect and to aid meditation.
Ajwain Common Safety
Ajwain is safe for short term use in most adults and is best to consume in moderation. Excessive use of the herb Ajwain can lead to stomach gas production, causing acidity and reflux.
Pregnant women should avoid Ajwain as they can affect fetal development. It is best to avoid use while breast feeding, when taken in high amounts it can result in fetal poisoning.
Consult a doctor prior to use with infants. With appropriate preparation and moderation, the herb can be gentle and suitable for use with children.
As with any plant it can be an allergen and should be tested before use. Thymol in the seeds can cause allergic reactions such as dizziness, nausea and vomiting.
Consult a doctor for an appropriate dosing and if using with other medication such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or anti-platelet medications. Ajwain has some anti-clotting properties and may increase bleeding during and after surgery.
For ways of preparing Ajwain, checkout my article for some examples of ways for preparing Herbs for medical use.
