Carom Seeds or Ajwain is dried seeds of Trachyspermum ammi (Linn.) Synonym Carum copticum (Family Umbelliferae). The other common names of this medicinal spice are Yavani, Yamaani, Yavaanikaa, Omam, Bishop’s weed, Ajowain, etc.
It has antibacterial, antioxidant, antirheumatic, diuretic, carminative, antispasmodic, and antifungal activities. It is very commonly used to treat digestive and respiratory problems. Carom seeds are pungent, hot, bitter and have distinct aroma. You can prepare tea from these tiny seeds for treating cold, cough, flu, digestive troubles, abdominal pain and cramps.
The recipe of Carom tea is very easy. You will need to boil water (250 ml) in a pan. Add one teaspoon of carom seeds, sugar (as per taste) in this boiling water. Cook for 5-10 minutes. The more you cook, stronger will be the tea. Strain the tea, add lemon juice and drink.
It is beneficial to drink ajwain tea during flu season as it improves body immunity to fight infections.
Health benefits
You can drink Ajwain Chai or Carum Tea to get relief in the following conditions without any side-effects.
- Asthma, Bronchitis
- Sore throat, Phlegm in lungs, Cold and cough
- Improves immunity
- Menstrual cramps
- Digestive disorders such as acidity, indigestion, abdominal pain
You can drink this tea twice or thrice in a day. Do not drink in excess as that can cause headaches.