Ajwain | Carom Seeds
AJWAIN | CAROM SEEDS
Ajwain are those tiny, pungent seeds with a big, bold personality. They taste warm, thyme-like, slightly bitter, and sharp in all the right ways. But ajwain isn’t just a spice you throw into parathas or lentils for an extra kick- it’s ancestral medicine, a digestive protector, and a respiratory liberator that’s been keeping humans upright and functional for well over a thousand years.
Ajwain likely originated in the eastern Mediterranean or Persia, but it made its way into India thousands of years ago, where it became fully woven into the Ayurvedic tradition. In Ayurveda, ajwain (called Yavani or Ugragandha, meaning “sharp-smelling”) is considered one of the best herbs to ignite agni- your digestive fire. It’s a classic deepana-pachana herb, meaning it not only improves appetite, but also burns away toxins and undigested food (ama) that weigh the body down.
During ancient times, ajwain was used to relieve gas, bloating, cramps, and indigestion, especially after a heavy meal or a bout of illness. In fact, Indian households have been using it for centuries in homemade remedies like ajwain tea, ajwain salt blends, or even just a pinch chewed raw with water. Got stomach pain? Nani’s already heating up the tawa and pulling out the ajwain tin.
But the story doesn’t stop there. Ajwain also became a major player in Unani medicine, where it was praised for its ability to warm the body, stimulate blood flow, and clear the lungs. The seeds were included in remedies for everything from respiratory infections and coughs to uterine disorders, kidney stones, and even parasitic worms. The Unani hakims (healers) knew what they were doing- this was seed-as-pharmacy energy.
In folk traditions across South Asia and the Middle East, ajwain has also been used to help regulate menstruation, ease postpartum recovery, and boost libido. It shows up in herbal steams, baths, and infusions for colds and flu, and its essential oil was traditionally used as a topical rub for joint pain, toothaches, and muscle soreness.
Fast forward to modern times, and science is catching up. Studies have confirmed that ajwain has antimicrobial, antifungal, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. It’s rich in thymol, a compound that fights off bacteria and fungi, supports digestion, and opens up the airways- hence why it’s still used in everything from cough syrups to digestive tonics.
Spiritually, ajwain is used as a heat mover. It clears, sharpens, energizes, and expels. Whether you’re using it to get rid of bloating, open the sinuses, or keep your body grounded after a heavy meal, ajwain comes in hot, fast, fierce, and effective.
Medicinal Uses of Ajwain / Carom Seeds
Digestive Health
Relieves gas and bloating (carminative action)
Eases indigestion, stomach pain, and acid reflux
Stimulates appetite and digestive enzymes
Often given for infant colic (in diluted form)
Used to treat flatulence and constipation
Antimicrobial and Antifungal
Contains thymol, a powerful antibacterial and antifungal compound
Traditionally used to treat intestinal infections and foodborne pathogens
Applied topically (in poultices or oils) for skin infections or fungal issues
Respiratory Support
Helps relieve cough, asthma, and nasal congestion
Acts as an expectorant—loosens mucus and clears the respiratory tract
Roasted ajwain is often used in steam inhalation for sinus relief
Pain Relief and Anti-inflammatory
Known for analgesic properties—used in poultices for joint pain, arthritis, and muscle aches
Warm ajwain salt packs are traditionally applied to menstrual cramps and stomach pain
Oral Health
Used to treat toothaches and gum infections due to its numbing and antimicrobial properties
Freshens breath and helps prevent oral bacteria
Women’s Health
Promotes menstrual flow and relieves menstrual cramps
Often used in postpartum care to strengthen digestion and support recovery
Believed to aid lactation when consumed as part of traditional postpartum teas or snacks
Antioxidant Properties
Contains flavonoids and phenolic compounds that help combat oxidative stress
May support immune system resilience
Weight Management and Metabolism
Used in traditional detox teas to stimulate metabolism and aid in fat breakdown
Sometimes taken as a morning infusion for weight support and digestive reset
Anti-parasitic
Used traditionally to expel intestinal worms and parasites
Heart and Circulatory Support
May help lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels (early evidence; more research needed)
Its warming nature promotes circulation and reduces stagnation
Common Forms of Use
Ajwain water: Seeds boiled and steeped in water
Roasted ajwain: Chewed after meals or used in food
Ajwain oil: For massage or external application
Ajwain salt packs: For cramps, pain, or sinus clearing
Inhalation: Roasted seeds used for congestion