17 October 2025
Cumin
Cumin is a plant in the umbellifer family (Apiaceae). The plant is commonly used as a spice. The flavor involves a slight nutty taste, coming from a plant with fine narrow leaves resembling fennel. The plant itself has lilac or white flowers and thin stems that can grow as tall as 30 cm. Botanically, the “seeds” are actually a split fruit (a non-sprouting fruit that splits into separate achenes when ripe).
Cumin is native to Iran, Syria, India and Turkey. It grows best in sandy, dewatered soil and in an area with a warm climate. It is commonly found on the Mediterranean coast. A warm climate is not a hard requirement.
What substances are in cumin?
Four grams of cumin is enough for 19% of the reference intake for iron. The mineral iron in cumin supports the normal formation of red blood cells and hemoglobin. As a result, iron helps normal oxygen transport in your body. Besides iron, there are other minerals in cumin. It contains manganese, magnesium and calcium. All in all, it is a nutritious herb.Health benefits of cumin
We have listed some of the benefits of cumin for your health.- Cumin is packed with iron (see heading above). Few foods are as iron-rich as cumin. One teaspoon of the spice contains as much as 1.4 milligrams of iron. This is good, for example, as a substitute for meat.
- Due to its high iron content, iron helps release energy from your diet and in this way supports your energy levels.
- The iron from cumin is also good for your concentration and memory and also helps maintain a clear mind.
- Eating cumin can also be beneficial for your immunity. This is because iron from cumin has a positive effect on your immune system and therefore helps to ensure a good resistance.
- The mineral manganese from cumin has a function in your body as an antioxidant, helping to protect against outside influences such as air pollution and sunlight.
- Manganese from cumin also plays a role in the production of bone tissue, helping to keep your bones strong.