If I had to choose only one herb to keep in my kitchen and healing toolkit, it would be... Cumin!
- Martyna Bajer
- Oct 6
- 3 min read
Updated: Oct 12
In Sanskrit, words reveal the true nature of things (here is my article about this so that you can dig deeper into this topic!)
Cumin is called Jiraka in Sanskrit, from the root “Jir”, meaning "to digest." On the other hand, Ajeerna means "non-digestion" (a = not, jirna = digested).
👉 So the connection is crystal clear: Jiraka (cumin) is the one that enables Jirna (digestion) and thus removes Ajeerna (indigestion).
This is why cumin has been treasured for thousands of years as the closest ally of our digestive fire (Agni); It reduces heaviness after meals, prevents bloating, calms cramps, and even keeps cravings in check!
How do I use cumin in practice?
There are countless ways, and which one is best depends on your constitution and current imbalance :) But these are my ways:
Homemade remedies: I create individualized mixes to chew on where cumin is blended with other herbs, ground freshly and mixed in precise proportions for a person’s unique needs;
Infusions: Simple, warm, and effective - especially after heavy meals.
Digestive powder: A spice blend you can easily make at home. Mine includes cumin plus a couple of other allies, turning it into a fat-burner, craving reducer, and a daily digestive support.
Because each body is different, I don’t share universal “remedy recipes” - your perfect mixture depends on you, your constitution, and your current state - ALWAYS.
Let's not forget black cumin!
Black cumin (Nigella sativa) is another powerful seed I often use in my remedies. While regular cumin focuses more on digestion, black cumin works deeply on blood sugar regulation and hormonal balance.
I often include it in:
Home remedies for women’s cycles and hormone-related issues.
Digestive mixes when metabolism needs a boost.
Immune-support blends, especially in colder months.
A safe & universal recipe for you:
One simple tea I can share (because it benefits almost everyone!) is the classic Cumin–Coriander–Fennel infusion:
1 tsp cumin seeds
1 tsp coriander seeds
1 tsp fennel seeds
👉 Boil the seeds in 500 ml water for 5–7 minutes, strain and sip warm.
Cumin stokes the digestive fire without being too heating.
Coriander cools and soothes the gut, balancing excess acidity or heat.
Fennel relaxes the intestinal muscles and calms cramps. Together, this trio helps reduce bloating, heaviness, and mild indigestion, while gently resetting your digestion. It’s especially lovely after a heavier meal or during warm months when the stomach feels overheated.
Cooking with cumin
While teas and powders are wonderful, one of the simplest (and tastiest!) ways to benefit from cumin is by cooking with it daily. Here are so tips to grab:
Toast or fry the seeds: Gently dry-roast or sizzle cumin seeds in a little ghee or coconut oil until they release their nutty aroma - this awakens their digestive power. Then add them to soups, lentils, or curries.
Grind fresh for maximum potency: Pre-ground cumin loses its prana (vital energy) quickly. Grinding fresh seeds just before cooking keeps the flavor vibrant and the medicinal effect stronger.
Add to sauces & soups: Cumin pairs beautifully with vegetables, grains, and legumes. A pinch of freshly ground cumin in a curry sauce, soup, or even sprinkled over roasted veggies makes them lighter to digest.
💡 Even in simple everyday meals (like rice, dal, or sautéed vegetables) adding cumin not only enhances flavor but also ensures the dish is more digestible and less likely to cause bloating!
Cumin and black cumin show us something important: even the simplest kitchen spices can become medicine when used with awareness.
But the way we use them depends on you, your constitution, and your current state of balance.
🌿 In my 1:1 consultations, I create personalized remedies and spice blends that work with your unique digestion, hormones, and lifestyle.
If you’ve been struggling with cravings, bloating, or energy swings, let’s explore together how Ayurveda can restore your natural rhythm - starting with something as simple as what’s already in your kitchen!
