Jeera Water For Metabolism Boost, Digestion And More: Don't Miss Out On These 7 Health Benefits

Jeera, or cumin, is a common Indian spice that traditionally sits in the spice cabinet due to its various flavour-packed uses and health benefits. Beyond its culinary uses, cumin works not only as a digestive aid, but also as a helper in overall body functioning. In fact, many choose to drink jeera water first thing in the morning to boost metabolism. The amazing, lesser-known but science-backed health benefits of adding this simple ingredient to the daily routine are recommended for optimum body function by Ayurveda.

The flavour enhancer is generally soaked in water by soaking or boiling jeera seeds to prepare a health tonic that is great for the gut. Beyond being a simple tummy ache remedy, it has surprising health benefits for the entire body. Now, let's look at what they are and how they can help make a difference in optimum body functioning.

7 Surprising Health Benefits Of Having Jeera Water

Jeera water is surprisingly versatile, even when we look at the science behind the staple spice. The vast medicinal properties of jeera water can help make it a must-have item as part of a healthy food routine. The science stated in the Pharmacognosy Journal (2017) details the founding principle of consuming jeera water for coping with serious digestive issues such as dysentery, dyspepsia and many more diseases of such nature. It is important to note that treating serious health conditions by only consuming traditional home remedies is not advisable, as it can relieve discomfort but not help with treating a diagnosable medical issue in the digestive system.

Here are some surprising health benefits of consuming jeera water, other than being a digestive aid:

Metabolism Booster And Fat Reducer

Consuming jeera water not only helps with better digestion but also boosts gut health, which in turn, nudges the metabolism to become faster. And with faster metabolism, the fat in the body can be effectively stored and utilised when needed. The mechanism that does this function is certain compounds that exist in jeera seeds, such as thymoquinone, that increase the body's metabolic rate and inhibit fat cell accumulation. Jeera water is an accessible and affordable option, given its wide and easy availability in India. This makes jeera water a formidable choice for boosting metabolism and shedding the extra kilos when consumed in moderation.

Natural Iron Powerhouse

Cumin is naturally rich in iron; drinking jeera water allows for better absorption of this critical mineral. Jeera water is a great natural supplement for women as it helps in combating fatigue and boosting low energy levels present due to iron deficiency. People who are anaemic should consider adding jeera water to their morning routine for a boost of iron into their diet, along with consuming iron-rich foods such as leafy greens,legumes, pumpkin seeds and many more such foods. In the Journal of Internal Medicine (1989), it is mentioned that drinking jeera water helps in providing the body with a substantial iron source.

Natural Detoxifer And Blood Purifier

Jeera water has a pivotal role in stimulating liver enzyme production that aids the body's natural detoxification process. While a simple natural way to flush toxins and purify the blood is to drink quarter cup of jeera water. In a study by an International Multidisciplinary Research Journal (2021), cumin contains antioxidants that reduce the oxidative stress on the body that builds up through constant exposure to environmental toxins. So, consuming jeera water is great for the overall immunity and strengthening of the body's defence mechanism to fight infections.

Also Read: Can Eating Garlic First Thing In The Morning Reduce Cholesterol Levels?

Better Blood Sugar Management

The Indian traditional custom of consuming jeera water helps improve insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance. But, if there is a diagnosis of pre diabetes or type 1 or type 2 diabetes, then consult a medical professional before adding jeera water to the diet, as sudden changes can have adverse health effects. There has been research on jeera seeds in Drug ResearchManual (2018) that details cumin has anti diabetic properties. Jeera has the ability to lower elevated glucose levels and control the symptoms of diabetes. Consuming jeera water can complement a diabetes-friendly Indian diet rich in whole grains, pulses, vegetables, and low in refined sugars.

Reduces Stress And Combats Insomnia

With the advent of constant screen exposure for work and leisure activities, the rates of insomnia have soared in India, where 1 in 4 people are sleep-deprived, as reported by the Indian Council of Medical Research. There is a presence of melatonin in cumin and other body-calming compounds that help soothe the nervous system and promote better sleep quality. For those struggling with stress and sleeplessness, adding cumin to your daily routine can be a natural and effective remedy. Simply sprinkling roasted cumin powder into evening meals or brewing a cup of cumin tea before bedtime can help the body relax and act as a mild sedative.

Also Read: Can Having Adrak Or Ginger First Thing In The Morning Help Your Lung Health?

Anti-Inflammatory Powerhouse

Cumin has strong anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties due to its compounds, like thymol, which can help reduce inflammation. Consuming jeera water can be useful in managing joint pain, but not a cure and lower generalised bodily swelling. Drinking jeera water can be a simple way to tap into these health benefits. While jeera water is not a cure for chronic conditions like arthritis, regular consumption may help manage day-to-day swelling and contribute to overall joint health.

Boosts Skin Clarity And Radiance

The detoxification and anti-inflammatory properties of jeera water are deeply beneficial to skin health. The compounds in jeera water fight free radicals, prevent acne and add a natural glow to the skin. The benefits of jeera water can be visible externally after a consistent routine of consuming it for a period of time, starting from the inside out. Alongside drinking jeera water, maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, practising good skincare habits, and staying well-hydrated can further enhance your skin's health and radiance.

Jeera water is a potent, holistic solution whose consumption should be encouraged. But always consult a physician or nutritionist before making major dietary changes, especially when it comes to managing chronic health conditions like diabetes or anaemia.

Also Read:

Jeera/Lemon/Haldi/Ajwain Water: The Right Way To Consume Explained By Nutritionist Rujuta Diwekar

Disclaimer: This content, including advice, provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.

References:

Singh, R., & Gangadharappa, H. (2017). Cuminum cyminum - A Popular Spice: An Updated Review. Pharmacognosy Journal. 

Bothwell, T. H., Baynes, R. D., Macfarlane, B., & Macphail, A. (1989). Nutritional iron requirements and food iron absorption. Journal of Internal Medicine. 

Lal, B. (2021). A review study on antioxidant potential and health benefits of cumin. ACADEMICIA: An International Multidisciplinary Research Journal. 

Haque, M., & Ansari, H. (2018). Anti-obesity effect of arq zeera and its main components thymol and cuminaldehyde in high-fat diet-induced obese rats. Drug Research Manual.