(Cuminum cyminum) Traditionally used to support healthy immune response, digestion, the central nervous system and muscle function.
Therapeutic Uses Cumin essential oil may support, aid, ease, soothe, reduce, calm, relax, promote and/or maintain healthy function of the following: Antioxidant Central Nervous System Digestion E. coli Gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining) Hyperthyroidism Immune Infection Inflammation Liver Muscle, spasmolytic Thyroid (hyperthyroidism) Tumor Urinary Tract Infection (UTI) Virus Hopewell Essential Oil Blends containing Cumin Absolve Fortify Immunition Research A Comparative Study on Chemical Composition and Antioxidant Activity of Ginger (Zingiber official) and Cumin (Cumin cyminum) Results suggest that both ginger and cumin can be used as potential sources of natural antioxidants in foods.
In Medical Aromatherapy, Kurt Schnaubelt writes: "In France this oil has been advanced as a perfect treatment for chronic viral diseases since its main aldehyde cuminal combines antiviral effects with (in such cases) much-needed sedative action. The use never really took hold, and it remains unclear whether this is due to its fragrance, which might be perceived as unfavorable. It is a good muscular spasmolytic and eases post-gastritis pain. It has a relaxing effect on the central nervous system." Schnuabelt noted that the perferred mode of use is internal.
Internal: Cumin is suitable for internal use within safe parameters if such use is deemed appropriate. Kurt Schnuabelt, PhD notes that the perferred mode of use of Cumin is internal. We feel that internal use is rarely *needed* and should only be used with respect for how concentrated the oils are. HEO does not advocate internal use of essential oils without appropriate knowledge and understanding of how to administer, for what purpose, how much, which essential oils, safety concerns and so on. In our experience, essential oils are generally more effective used topically with proper dilution or inhaled. Kurt Schnaubelt Ph.D. notes that "French aromatherapy literature contains many references to using oils orally." He goes on to note that "generally 1 drop is always enough when ingesting essential oils." A potential toxicity hazard could occur when untrained people use essential oils orally and ingest too much. Keep in mind that while medical doctors or health care practitioners may prescribe essential oils for internal use, they are trained and experienced in the safe application of essential oils. It is not a matter of using "French aromatherapy" or "British" methods, it's a matter of experience and appropriate application. Click here for more information about internal usage.
