Cumin is used in gastronomy and traditional medicine.
Cumin is a word that comes from the Latin cumīnum , in turn derived from the Greek kýminon . The term refers to a plant that is part of the umbelliferous family group.
With the scientific name Cuminum cyminum , cumin is native to the Mediterranean area. Due to its medicinal and gastronomic use , its presence expanded to numerous regions of the world.
Cumin characteristics
Cumin is an herb with a branchy stem that can measure up to ninety centimeters in height. It has thin, elongated leaves and small flowers that can have a reddish, pink or whitish color.
Cumin seeds appear joined in pairs. They are oval in shape, have a flat side and a striated side, and are characterized by their pungent flavor and fragrance. These seeds, which are also called cumin, are the part of the vegetable that is used in medicine and cooking .
A very popular spice
At a culinary level, cumin is usually used ground . Due to its somewhat bitter taste and intense aroma, it should be used with caution, avoiding it being invasive.
A peculiarity of cumin is that it is part of typical recipes of many nations . Traditional dishes from India , Spain , Mexico and Arab countries, for example, include cumin among their ingredients.
Cumin is included in various spice mixtures.
Hummus is a chickpea paste that is usually seasoned with cumin. Also the eggplant puree known as baba ganush and the croquettes called faláfel . In Argentina , cumin is a spice that is often added to meat empanadas .
We cannot fail to mention the relevance of cumin in different herbal mixtures . Indian curry , ras el hanut from the Maghreb , and tandoori masala from India and Pakistan use cumin.
Medicinal properties of cumin
Various medicinal properties are attributed to cumin. It is said to be sedative , carminative , spasmolytic and diuretic .
That is why traditional medicine recommends its use for the treatment of digestive problems and dysmenorrhea, among other disorders. In addition to its use as a condiment , it can be ingested as an infusion or take advantage of topical use of its essential oil.
It should be noted that, in matters of health , you should always consult a doctor so that this specialist is the one who provides the indications and suggestions of the case. No type of food or drink should be used to treat illnesses or conditions without the approval of a health professional.
a maltese island
It is interesting to mention that Comino is also the Spanish name of an island in the Republic of Malta . It is located in the Mediterranean Sea , between the islands of Malta and Gozo .
The name of this island territory, in fact, is linked to the abundant presence of cumin. Although the stable population of the island is very small, in the summer many tourists arrive with the intention of enjoying its beaches .
In Comino there is also the Torre de Santa María , whose origins date back to the 17th century . This defensive construction appears in several films and television series.