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Ajwain
Ajwain
Ajwain is an Indian spice commonly used as a remedy for gastrointestinal problems like indigestion, flatulence and colic pain. Ajwain seeds possess carminative, antimicrobial and liver protective properties. It is also known to have blood pressure lowering and bronchodilatory (substance that increases airflow to the lungs) properties.
Ajwain water is an effective home remedy for indigestion and acidity. It can be prepared by adding slightly roasted Ajwain seeds to a glass of warm water. Ajmoda churna can be given to rheumatic arthritis patients to get relief from constipation. This is due to its laxative property.
An important precaution with Ajwain is that it should be avoided during pregnancy. This is because it can cause uterine contractions leading to miscarriage[2][3][5].
Ajwain water is an effective home remedy for indigestion and acidity. It can be prepared by adding slightly roasted Ajwain seeds to a glass of warm water. Ajmoda churna can be given to rheumatic arthritis patients to get relief from constipation. This is due to its laxative property.
An important precaution with Ajwain is that it should be avoided during pregnancy. This is because it can cause uterine contractions leading to miscarriage[2][3][5].
What are the synonyms of Ajwain?
Trachyspermum ammi, Bishop’s weed, Dipyaka, Yamani, Yamanika, Yavanika, Jain, Yauvan, Yavan, Javan, Yavani, Yoyana, Ajma, Ajmo, Javain, Jevain, Oma, Yom, Omu, Oman, Ayanodakan, Onva, Juani, Omam, Vamu
What is the source of Ajwain?
Plant Based
Benefits of Ajwain
Modern Science View
Thymol present in Ajwain has carminative and antimicrobial property and is used to manage many gastrointestinal disorders like indigestion, flatulence and diarrhea. Thymol also helps release gastric juices in the stomach thereby enhancing the process of digestion[5].
Ayurvedic View
Ajwain helps to manage digestive problems by promoting digestive fire due to its Deepan (appetizer) property. It also helps to digest the food easily due to its Pachan (digestive) property and gives relief from flatulence.
Tip:
a. Take 1-2 glass of water in a pan.
b. Add 1 teaspoon of Ajwain seeds to it.
c. Bring it to a boil on low flame for 8-10 mins.
d. Take 2-3 teaspoon of this decoction 3-6 times a day.
Tip:
a. Take 1-2 glass of water in a pan.
b. Add 1 teaspoon of Ajwain seeds to it.
c. Bring it to a boil on low flame for 8-10 mins.
d. Take 2-3 teaspoon of this decoction 3-6 times a day.
Modern Science View
The bronchodilating effect of Ajwain dilates the bronchial tubes in the lungs and gives relief in case of mild asthma[5][11].
Ayurvedic View
Ajwain might be useful in patients with asthma as it balances an aggravated Kapha. Ajwain helps to bring out the mucus easily and helps manage chronic bronchitis and asthma to a great extent.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Ajwain and 1/2 teaspoon Fennel seeds (Saunf)
2. Boil it in 250 ml water till the water changes color.
3. Drink this while it is still hot twice a day.
Tip:
1. Take 1/2 teaspoon Ajwain and 1/2 teaspoon Fennel seeds (Saunf)
2. Boil it in 250 ml water till the water changes color.
3. Drink this while it is still hot twice a day.
Modern Science View
Ajwain has antilithiatic property and lowers the risk of kidney stone formation. A study states that antilithiatic protein present in Ajwain seeds inhibit both calcium oxalate and calcium phosphate deposition and prevent kidney stone formation[12].
How effective is Ajwain?
Insufficient evidence
Asthma, Indigestion, Kidney stone
Precautions when using Ajwain
Advice from Experts
Modern Science View
Ajwain might increase the risk of bleeding during and after surgery. So it is advisable to stop taking Ajwain at least 2 weeks before the scheduled surgery[8].
Breastfeeding
Modern Science View
Due to the lack of scientific evidence, medicinal use of Ajwain or beyond the recommended dosage should be avoided during breastfeeding[8].
Moderate Medicine Interaction
Modern Science View
Ajwain has blood thinning property and might slow blood clotting. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid Ajwain or its supplements along with drugs that slow blood clotting. This is because it might increase the chance of bleeding[8].
Patients with liver disease
Modern Science View
Ajwain should be used cautiously in patients with liver disease as it can worsen the condition[8].
Pregnancy
Important
Modern Science View
Use of Ajwain beyond the recommended dosage is considered unsafe during pregnancy as it can cause uterine contractions leading to miscarriage. Therefore, it is advisable to use within the recommended dosage or after consulting your doctor[8].
Side Effects
Modern Science View
1. Nausea
2. Vomiting
3. Headache
2. Vomiting
3. Headache
Recommended Dosage of Ajwain
- Ajwain Churna - ¼-½ teaspoon twice a day.
- Ajwain Capsule - 1 capsule twice a day.
- Ajwain Tablet - 1 tablet twice a day.
- Ajwain Oil - 1-2 drops.
- Ajwain Ark - 5-6 drops twice day.
- Ajwain Seeds - 1/4-1/2 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
How to use Ajwain
1.Ajwain Water
a. Take 1 teaspoon of Ajwain seeds.
b. Add it to 1 glass of warm water.
c. Let it stand overnight.
d. Drink this water whenever required for its potent antispasmodic action[10].
e. This is the highly used traditional remedy for stomachache.
2. Ajwain Churna
a. Take ¼ to ½ teaspoon of ajwain churna.
b. Swallow it with warm water before or after meals, to aid better digestion.
3. Ajwain Ark
a. Take 5-10 drops of ajwain ark.
b. Drink it with warm water after lunch and dinner.
4. Ajwain Capsule
a. Take 1 Ajwain Capsule.
b. Swallow it with warm water after taking lunch and dinner.
5. Ajwain Tablet
a. Take 1 Ajwain Tablet.
b. Swallow it warm water after taking lunch and dinner.
6. Ajwain Decoction
a. Take 1-2 glass of water in a pan.
b. Add 1 teaspoon of ajwain seeds to it.
c. Bring it to boil on the low flame for 8-10 mins.
d. Take 2-3 teaspoon of this decoction 2-3 times a day to get effective relief from asthma[3].
e. Replace water with milk to make the decoction to get effective relief from urinary stones[3].
7. Ajwain Seed
a. Take ¼ to ½ teaspoon of Ajwain seeds.
b. Take it with honey or lukewarm milk to increase milk production during lactation period[5].
a. Take 1 teaspoon of Ajwain seeds.
b. Add it to 1 glass of warm water.
c. Let it stand overnight.
d. Drink this water whenever required for its potent antispasmodic action[10].
e. This is the highly used traditional remedy for stomachache.
2. Ajwain Churna
a. Take ¼ to ½ teaspoon of ajwain churna.
b. Swallow it with warm water before or after meals, to aid better digestion.
3. Ajwain Ark
a. Take 5-10 drops of ajwain ark.
b. Drink it with warm water after lunch and dinner.
4. Ajwain Capsule
a. Take 1 Ajwain Capsule.
b. Swallow it with warm water after taking lunch and dinner.
5. Ajwain Tablet
a. Take 1 Ajwain Tablet.
b. Swallow it warm water after taking lunch and dinner.
6. Ajwain Decoction
a. Take 1-2 glass of water in a pan.
b. Add 1 teaspoon of ajwain seeds to it.
c. Bring it to boil on the low flame for 8-10 mins.
d. Take 2-3 teaspoon of this decoction 2-3 times a day to get effective relief from asthma[3].
e. Replace water with milk to make the decoction to get effective relief from urinary stones[3].
7. Ajwain Seed
a. Take ¼ to ½ teaspoon of Ajwain seeds.
b. Take it with honey or lukewarm milk to increase milk production during lactation period[5].
Benefits of Ajwain
Precautions when using Ajwain
Allergy
Modern Science View
Apply ajwain to a small area first to test for possible allergic reaction. People who are allergic to ajwain or its constituents should use ajwain under Ayurvedic doctor’s supervision as they may develop runny nose, rash or hives[8].
Tips:
1. Ajwain or leaves paste should be used with honey or any coolant substance if your skin is hypersensitive.
2. Due to its hot potency, Ajwain Seeds oil or paste should be used with coconut oil on scalp.
Tips:
1. Ajwain or leaves paste should be used with honey or any coolant substance if your skin is hypersensitive.
2. Due to its hot potency, Ajwain Seeds oil or paste should be used with coconut oil on scalp.
Recommended Dosage of Ajwain
- Ajwain Paste - ½ to 1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
- Ajwain Powder - ½ to 1 teaspoon or as per your requirement.
- Ajwain Oil - 1-3 drops or as per your requirement.
How to use Ajwain
1. Ajwain leaves with Honey
a. Take ½ teaspoon of Ajwain leaves paste.
b. Mix it with honey and apply on the affected area of the skin.
c. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of skin infections like eczema, psoriasis and skin discolouration[3].
2. Ajwain Oil with Mustard or Sesame oil
a. Take 2-3 drops of Ajwain oil.
b. Mix it with mustard or sesame oil.
c. Massage onto the chest and back.
d. Repeat it once or twice day to get maximum relief.
3. Ajwain Oil with Coconut oil
a. Take 2-3 drops of Ajwain oil.
b. Mix it with coconut oil.
c. Apply evenly on the scalp at night and wash out next morning.
for better relief from dandruff use it three times a week[7].
4. Ajwain Decoction
a. Take 1 glass of water in a pan.
b. Add 1 teaspoon of ajwain seeds to it.
c. Bring it to boil on the low flame for 8-10 mins.
a. Take ½ teaspoon of Ajwain leaves paste.
b. Mix it with honey and apply on the affected area of the skin.
c. Use this remedy 2-3 times a week to get rid of skin infections like eczema, psoriasis and skin discolouration[3].
2. Ajwain Oil with Mustard or Sesame oil
a. Take 2-3 drops of Ajwain oil.
b. Mix it with mustard or sesame oil.
c. Massage onto the chest and back.
d. Repeat it once or twice day to get maximum relief.
3. Ajwain Oil with Coconut oil
a. Take 2-3 drops of Ajwain oil.
b. Mix it with coconut oil.
c. Apply evenly on the scalp at night and wash out next morning.
for better relief from dandruff use it three times a week[7].
4. Ajwain Decoction
a. Take 1 glass of water in a pan.
b. Add 1 teaspoon of ajwain seeds to it.
c. Bring it to boil on the low flame for 8-10 mins.
Frequently asked questions
Modern Science View
Ajwain is a useful spice used in many food preparations. Ajwain oil is used in the preparation of lotions and ointments in the cosmetic industries[6].
Modern Science View
Store Ajwain in a glass or plastic jar with a well-fitting lid. Store the jar in a cool and dry place.
Modern Science View
Ajwain water can be easily prepared from Ajwain seeds at home.
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Ajwain seeds.
2. Add it to 1 glass of warm water.
3. Let it stand overnight.
4. Drink this water whenever required for its potent antispasmodic action.
5. Ajwain water is used as a traditional remedy for stomach ache due to indigestion and flatulence[10].
1. Take 1 teaspoon of Ajwain seeds.
2. Add it to 1 glass of warm water.
3. Let it stand overnight.
4. Drink this water whenever required for its potent antispasmodic action.
5. Ajwain water is used as a traditional remedy for stomach ache due to indigestion and flatulence[10].
Modern Science View
Ajwain might lower the risk of intestinal infections due to its anthelmintic property. It interferes with the metabolism of parasites and inhibit their activity. It also helps in contraction of the smooth muscles of the gut, thereby expelling the parasites from the body[3].
Ayurvedic View
Ajwain might reduce the risk of intestinal infection and worm infestation due to its Krimighna property.
Modern Science View
Ajwain might help control high blood pressure due to its antihypertensive activity. It acts as a vasodilator and regulates blood pressure by relaxing narrowed blood vessels[3][5].
Modern Science View
Ajwain has antihyperlipidemic property and lowers the level of total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol and triglycerides. Ajwain also has antioxidant property which prevents lipid peroxidation and helps to fight against the damage caused by the free radicals[9][10].
Ayurvedic View
Ajwain might improve the metabolism and promote better liver function due to its Deepan (appetizer) and Pachan (digestive) property. By improving metabolism it also helps control high cholesterol level in the body.
Modern Science View
Ajwain water has many health benefits as Ajwain is packed with certain constituents that remove toxins and helps promote digestion as well as relieve gas and acidity. Ajwain water might also help in other gastric problems like diarrhoea, stomach ache, muscle cramps or stomach infections. Furthermore, Ajwain water soothes the throat and ears in cough or cold, provides relief from arthritis pain, manages blood pressure and help to manage complications related to heart, liver and kidney[5].
Ayurvedic View
Ajwain water helps to improve the digestive system by improving the Pachak Agni (digestive fire), due to it’s Deepan (appetiser) and Pachan (digestion) properties. It also works as a good pain reliever due to its Vata balancing property.
Modern Science View
Yes, Ajwain possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that might help in weight loss. It improves digestion by removing toxins from the body, cure stomach problems like constipation, gas, acidity etc. All these factors contribute to enhanced body metabolism which is essential for weight loss[5].
Ayurvedic View
Weight gain or obesity is a condition that results due to the accumulation of excessive fat or Ama. Ajwain helps in reducing weight due to its Deepana (appetiser) and Pacahna (digestion) properties that reduce Ama leading to an improved metabolism.
Modern Science View
Yes, Ajwain might be helpful in reducing grey hair as it consists of trace and mineral elements like iron, calcium that play an important role in reduction of grey hair[5][14].
Modern Science View
Ajwain should be avoided during pregnancy. This is because it can cause uterine contractions leading to miscarriage[8].
Modern Science View
Enough scientific evidence is not available for the use of Ajwain in irregular periods.
Ayurvedic View
Menstrual problems occurs due to the aggravation of Vata dosha. Ajwain when used with old jaggery and water, helps to manage problems related to menstruation due to its Vata balancing property.
Modern Science View
Thymol present in Ajwain oil has antimicrobial activity and can be used to lower the risk of oral diseases and infection caused by bacteria. Ajwain also contains a novel compound which shows antibiolim activity and inhibits bacterial growth[6][7].
Ayurvedic View
Ajwain helps to reduce dental problem due its Ropan (healing) nature. It also controls bacterial growth because of its Krimighna property.
Modern Science View
People are advised to undergo patch testing before using Ajwain as people allergic to Ajwain can get runny nose, rash or hives. Excess consumption of Ajwain can make the skin more sensitive to sun which further increases the risk of skin cancer[8].
Tip:
Wearing a sunblock while going out is recommended in light-skinned people[8].
Tip:
Wearing a sunblock while going out is recommended in light-skinned people[8].
Ayurvedic View
According to Ayurveda, Ajwain oil when applied to the stomach and massaged for some time, can give relief from stomach pain.
Modern Science View
Ajwain essential oil consist of 50% of thymol which is a strong germicide (kill germs and microorganism) therefore used as disinfectant, antispasmodic (relieves muscle spasm or contractions) and is effective against fungal infections. Thymol is also used in perfumes and toothpaste[15].
Ayurvedic View
Ajwain oil helps to relieve muscular pain or cramps due to its Vata balancing property. Ajwain also has Kapha balancing property that helps in the management of certain skin problems like itching which occur due to the imbalance of Kapha dosha.
References
- The Ayurvedic Pharmacopoeia Of India.Part 1 Volume 1.
- Kaur GJ, Arora DS.Antibacterial and phytochemical screening of Anethum graveolens, Foeniculum vulgare and Trachyspermum ammi.BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine.2009;9(30).
- Zarshenas MM, Moein M, Samani SM, et al. An overview on Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi)pharmacological effects; Modern and traditional.Journal of Natural Remedies.2014;14(1):98-105.
- Petramfar P, Moein M, Samani SM, et al.Trachyspermum ammi 10 % topical cream versus placebo on neuropathic pain, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial.Neurological Sciences.2016;37(9):1449-1455.
- Bairwa R, Sodha RS, Rajawat BS.Trachyspermum ammi.Pharmacogn Rev.2012;6(11):56–60.
- Khan R, Zakir M, Khanam Z, et al.Novel compound from Trachyspermum ammi (Ajowan caraway) seeds with antibiofilm and anti adherence activities against Streptococcus mutans: A potential chemotherapeutic agent against dental caries.Journal of Applied Microbiology.2010;109:2151–2159.
- Ganapathi A, Roy A, Geetha RV.Antimicrobial Effects of Trachyspermum ammi on Oral Microbes.IJSER.2017;8(4):80-85.
- WebMD.Bishops Weed: Uses, Side effects, Doses, Interactions [Internet].Atlanta [last updated in 2016].
- Asif HM, Sultana S, Akhtar N.A panoramic view on phytochemical, nutritional, ethanobotanical uses and pharmacological values of Trachyspermum ammi L inn.Asian Pac J Trop Biomed.2014;4(2):S545-S553.
- Chatterjee S, Goswami N, Kothari N.Evaluation of antioxidant activity of essential oil from Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi) seeds.International Journal of Green Pharmacy.2013:140-144.
- Boskabady MH, Alizadeh M, Jahanbin B. Bronchodilatory effect of Carum copticum in airways of asthmatic patients.Therapie.2007;62:23-29.
- Kaur T, Bijarnia R, Singla SK, et al.In vivo efficacy of Trachyspermum ammi anticalcifying protein in urolithiatic rat model.Journal of ethnopharmacology.2009;126(3):459-62.
- Al-khazraji SM.The pain decreasing effect of the alcoholic extract of Trachyspermum ammi (L.) (Ajwain) in experimental animals.IOSR Journal of Pharmacy.2017;7(1):23-29.
- El-Sheikh AM, Elfar NN, Mourad HA, Hewedy ES. Relationship between Trace Elements and Premature Hair Graying. Int J Trichology. 2018 Nov-Dec;10(6):278-283.
- Krishnamoorthy V, Madalageri MB. Bishop weeds (Trachyspermum ammi): An essential crop for north Karnatka. J Med Aromat Plant Sci. 1999;21:996–998.
Disclaimer
The content is purely informative and educational in nature and should not be construed as medical advice. Please use the content only in consultation with an appropriate certified medical or healthcare professional.