Benefits, Uses & Side Effects of Jeera Water
Cumin is a beneficial spice that is easily available in our kitchens. It is a very common ingredient of curries, not only in Asia. The western world now also gains benefits from this spice.
The botanical name for cumin is the Cuminum cyminum, and it belongs to the family Apiaceae. These seeds have a unique aroma and a peculiar taste.
Nutritional Content of Jeera
Jeera is enriched with nutritional value. Many people eat plenty of food every day. However, these do not fulfill the daily requirement of nutrients and vitamins.
Consuming even a tablespoon full of Jeera will give you numerous health benefits.
One serving of jeera contains the following nutrients:
- 19% RDA of Energy
- 34% RDA of Carbohydrates
- 32% RDA of Protein
- 74% RDA of Total Fat
- 0% RDA of Cholesterol
- 25% RDA of Dietary Fiber
- 2.5% RDA of Folates
- 28.5% RDA of Niacin
- 33% RDA of Pyridoxine
- 24.5% RDA of Riboflavin
- 52% RDA of Thiamin
- 42% RDA of Vitamin A
- 13% RDA of Vitamin C
- 22% RDA of Vitamin E
- 4.5% RDA of Vitamin K
- 93% RDA of Calcium
- 96% RDA of Copper
- 829% RDA of Iron
- 91% RDA of Magnesium
- 145% RDA of Manganese
- 71% RDA of Phosphorus
- 43.5% RDA of Zinc
Apart from these, Jeera also contains three different types of phytonutrients
- Carotene-ß
- Crypto-xanthin-ß
- Lutein-zeaxanthin
How to Prepare Jeera Water?
Jeera water is a healthy alternative to drinking carbonated soft drinks. You can drink Jeera water at any time of the day.
However, many specialists advise that a person must start their day with this drink. To make Jeera water, you will require the following;
- 1 teaspoonful of Jeera (cumin seeds)
- 2 glasses of water
- 1 teaspoonful of honey (Optional)
The recipe to make Jeera water is very simple and easy. It hardly requires 5 minutes to prepare.
Follow these steps to make Jeera water;
Step 1 – Add water and Jeera in a saucepan
Step 2 – Boil the contents.
Step 3 – After boiling, simmer the contents for 5 minutes on low flame. All the nutrients of Jeera will be absorbed in water.
Step 4 – Strain the contents in a glass.
Step 5 – Add honey if you need to sweeten it a little bit. Stir. You can even add lemon if you like to enhance the taste.
Health Benefits of Jeera Water
Jeera water is a magic potion that has many health benefits due to a variety of healthy constituents that it has. Jeera water has the following health benefits;
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Aids in digestion
Jeera water helps in the reduction of flatulence and bloating. It is the most potent drink that helps with abdominal gases.
Therefore, if you suffer from these conditions, then you should look into this quick remedy.
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Aphrodisiac
Jeera water possesses aphrodisiac properties. It helps in the stimulation of sexual desire.
Many people consume medicines for this property. These also contain several side effects.
However, why take medicines when you can experience the same effects with natural products.
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Hydration
Jeera water with a hint of lemon helps maintain hydration levels of cells in our bodies.
It helps you to feel fresh all day long. It will prevent heat stroke in summers. Those people who drink Jeera water every morning have fewer chances of getting dizzy.
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Anti-oxidant
Our body builds up free radicals. These compounds are harmful to the body as they destroy healthy cells in the body.
In essence, the anti-oxidant effects of Jeera water help in getting rid of these radicals. Protecting us from several diseases and illnesses that can affect us in the long run.
MEDICAL USES
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Hypertension
Hypertension is usually due to high amounts of sodium in our bodies. The levels of potassium and sodium are connected. If one increases, the other decrease and vice versa.
This is what Jeera water possesses. It contains a surplus amount of potassium that helps to get rid of sodium.
In the end, it lowers blood pressure. It is specifically beneficial for those who suffer from hypertension.
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Anemia
Anemia due to iron deficiency is one of the most common ones in the world. It means that we intake fewer amounts of iron or folic acid.
Jeera water contains 2.5% of the daily requirement of folates. This folate helps in the synthesis of red blood cells. It is beneficial for those who suffer from acute anemia.
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Dysmenorrhea
Dysmenorrhea is the condition of painful menstruation. Jeera water consists of compounds that produce a relaxing effect on the uterine muscles.
Hence, you will feel fewer spasms. Moreover, it will help to pass a painful period quite easily.
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Hepatoprotective
Jeera water is helpful with detoxification of the liver. It means that it helps to get rid of the poisonous chemicals from the body.
Jeera water helps with the production of bile.
When drinking Jeera water, you will not have to worry about liver disease. These include jaundice or liver cancer.
Side Effects of Jeera Water
Jeera water has all the benefits in the world. However, these benefits can backtrack if you consume it in excess.
Whoever said that excess of everything is bad; said it right. Jeera water in excess quantity is similar to poison to a human body.
The risks of side effects increase if you already suffer from illness.
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Hypoglycemia
Jeera water lowers blood sugar levels rapidly. That is because of the nutrients that it has. This particularly dangerous for those who have diabetes.
Pregnant women should also take precautions.
Therefore, such people should consult their physicians before they decide to drink jeera water.
Many people can safely drink Jeera water without side effects. Nevertheless, this does not mean that it will be safe for you.
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Decreases Lactation
It is particularly important for breastfeeding women. Jeera water is common among women who wish to lose weight after pregnancy.
But, if you breastfeed your newborn, then you will have to postpone this drink.
Excessive amounts of Jeera water can hamper the production of breast milk. If this happens, then immediately visit your general physician.
Conclusion
Jeera is an easily available spice that we can get our hands-on. The steps for preparing Jeera water are as easy as A B C. It is highly beneficial for the human body.
However, you should drink it in moderate quantities. There are side effects of drinking Jeera water.
You should consult your healthcare provider if you experience any side effects.