Bilva - Lord Shiva's Sacred Tree

                           

     

Bilva is an ancient tree with spiritual and medicinal importance in ayurveda. It is extensively described in Indian literature, since Vedic period. Its botanical name is Aegle marmelos and belongs to Rutaceae family.

Bilva is a large tree growing to a maximum height of around 18 meters. Its natural habitat includes the dry forests in India, Myanmar, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Thailand.  The Bael tree has a gray colored bark with thorny branches and aromatic leaves.

The tree is regarded as sacred in Hindu mythology. It is said that the tree is dear to Lord Shiva who sits under the tree to meditate hence it’s called as Sivadruma. The leaves of this tree are offered to Lord Shiva during religious rituals. The most important part of his tree is its fruit. It is a small, woody-skinned structure with a diameter of around 5 to 15 centimeters. . The fruit is green, when raw, and appears pale brown upon ripening. On opening it, one finds many seeds embedded in a thick, mucus-like pulp.

In the Atharva Veda it is described as being so sacred that its wood may not be burned for fuel. It is one among Dashamoola herbs (Group of ten roots).

Synonyms

Various names used to describe bilva are commonly known as bael, Bengal quince, golden apple, stone apple, wood apple, bili.

Sanskrit Synonyms: Maaloora, Shandilya, Shailusha, Shriphala, Gandhagarbha, Sadaaphala, Mahakapittha, Kantaki, Granthila.

Classical categorization:

Charaka:

Shothahara – Group of herbs with anti inflammatory property

Arshoghna – Group of herbs useful in haemorrhoids

Asthapanopaga – Group of herbs useful in Basti treatment.

Sushruta included bael in Varunadi gana, Ambashtadi gana, Brihat panchamoola, Dashamoola.

Availability of Bilva in India

Bael grows in the subtropical hills and plains of India. It thrives in dry forests and has a reputation for surviving in conditions unsuitable for other fruits. Given its ancient history and evolution, it is no doubt craftier and more adaptable than modern strains and hybrids of various new crops.

Season of Bilva

Bael season is February through May. It’s difficult to find fresh bael outside of these months, though some suppliers store unripe fruits and gas them into ripeness at several points in the year for a higher price.

Checking for Ripeness in Bilva fruit

Unripe bael skin is grayish green until it changes to a yellowish tinge as it ripens. Distributors pick the fruit while it’s still greenish yellow with the expectation that in 8 to 10 days, bael will ripen. Another indicator of ripeness is when the stem falls off readily from the fruit.

Storing Bilva

Bael does not have to be refrigerated and can be kept on the kitchen counter at temperatures up to appx 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Bael also keeps for quite a long time, with the range of acceptability lasting from 2 weeks to 4 months if kept in cool storage. However, keep an eye on bael, as it may become overripe. This is indicated by cracks and mold at the stem end.

Taste of Bilva

Bael’s orangey flesh tastes like a combination of sweet and sour, with the ratio varying on the ripeness and particular cultivar. Bael may irritate the throat of some who try its resinous, pasty orange flesh. The texture of a ripe bael fruit ranges from sticky, slimy and creamy.

Bilva Phala

Unripe bael fruit

Kapha anila hara – balances Vata and kapha.

Teekshna (piercing)

Snigdha (unctuous, oilyness)

Sangrahi – Absorbant

Deepana – improves digestion

Katu, Tikta, Kashaya – has pungent, bitter and astringent taste

Ushna – hot

It is quite similar to unripe fruit in qualities but

Madhura anurasa – It has sweet after taste

Guru (heavy to digest)

Vidahi – causes slight burning sensation

Vishtambhakara – causes constipation. Useful in diarrhoea and dysentery

Doshakrut – may cause imbalance of Tridosha, especially Vata.(Ripe Bael fruit)

Unique to other fruits, Bael Fruit takes nearly 11 months to ripen and is about the size of a grapefruit.  Cracking the shell is not an easy task – and many doing the harvesting use a machete to complete this effort.  The fruit is described as having a taste similar to marmalade and a scent similar to roses. Oil derived from bael fruit pulp is hot in nature, and relieves Vata

Bilva fruit Appearance

Dimension of Fruit: shape: round or oval; diameter: 5 – 12.5 cm; weight 1-2.5 kg.

Rind/Pulp: thin, hard, woody rind. When unripe the rind color is grayish green and yellow when ripe.

Bilva root

Tridoshaghna – balances Tridosha

Chardighna – relieves vomiting

Shulaghna – relieves abdominal colic pain

Madhura – sweet

Laghu – light to digest

The unripe fruit of Bael is

Tuvara – Astringent

Grahi – absorbant

Ruksha – Dry

Agni Pittakrut – improves digestion and Pitta.

Vatashleshmahara – balances Vata and Kapha

Bilva leaf

Sangrahi – Absorbant

Vatajit – Balances Vata

Bilva Pith

Kaphavataghna – balances Kapha and Vata

Amaghna – relieves state of indigestion at the level of digestive tract and tissues

Shulaghna – relieves abdominal colic pain

Grahini – Absorbant

Bilva Stem

Kasaghna – relieves cough, cold

Amavataghna – useful in rheumatoid arthritis

Hrudya – good for heart

Agnivardhana – improves digestion power – Carminative

Katu – pungent

Kashaya – astringent

Ushna – hot

Tikta – Bitter

Deepana, Pachana - Digestive, improves digestive enzymes

Snigdha (unctuous, oilyness)

Teekshna (piercing)

Bilva leaves

Bael leaves are used in dyspepsia, gastritis indigestion, cold and sinusitis.

Bilva Flower

Atisarahara – Relieves dysentery and diarrhoea

Trushahara – relieves thirst

Vamihara – anti emetic – relieves vomiting.

Medicinal uses

Digestive

As the bael fruit bears strong digestive properties, its regular use gives relief from any kind of digestive discomfort. In case of disease like diarrhea and dysenteries it is found very useful as it cleans up and promotes normal intestinal functioning. It tones up the digestive track and alimentary canal to allow proper bowel movements. Reap bael fruit is natural laxative and removes constipation complaints.

This fruit consists of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, Vitamin C and minerals like Iron, Phosphorus, Carotene and thiamin. The presence of such nutrients including fibers makes it useful in the treatment of digestive and gastrointestinal disorders.

The fruit is excellent in treating various digestion problems. The fruit is also rich in Vitamin C. Half ripe fruits are taken; the pulp is removed, dried and powdered. It is better to consume 3 to 10 grams 2 to three times per day. The fruit is very effective in curing diseases like constipation, dysentery, diarrhea, worms, peptic ulcer, etc. Bilva root bark, unripe fruit are useful in loss of appetite, diarrhea, dysentery, sprue, pain in abdomen.

Laxative

Ripe bael fruit is one of the best known natural laxatives. It's excellent for cleansing and toning the intestines and helps in evacuating old collected fecal contents from the bowels. Taking ripe fruit everyday for about 2-3 months can eliminate acute and sub-chronic constipation.

Eye and ear disorders

Fresh juice of leaves is used to treat eye infections. Roots of the young tree are used to treat ear infections. A small, stiff piece of root is dipped in neem oil and lighted. The oil that drips from the burning end is collected. This is an excellent medicine for treating ear infections.

Haemorrhoids

A mixture of the unripe fruit along with some ginger and fennel is a supposed cure for haemorrhoids.

Diarrhoea and Dysentery

The specialty of bilva is such that it can be used to cure both constipation and loose motion. Bilva unripe fruits work as appetizer, digestive and astringent opposite to this ripened fruits are sweet and mild laxative. According to Ayurveda, diarrhea and dysentery without fever can be treated with bael fruit. The fruit can be dried and mixed with jaggery or brown sugar.

The pulp of raw fruits is effective in treating bleeding piles and bacillary dysentery.

Liver Protective

Bilva leaves powder is liver stimulant so perfects the normal functions of the liver. Bilva leaf powder mixed with black pepper is  used in jaundice

Haemostatic

Bilva is haemostatic it is also used in hemorrhoids and in other diseases with tendency of bleeding. Bilva unripe fruit ground to paste and cooked with sugar known as  Bilvavleha is very beneficial in bleeding piles.

Peptic Ulcer

Those having peptic ulcer can extract the juice from the leaves of this tree and consume it. It is better to consume it in the morning. When taken regularly for a few weeks, the ulcers get cured. Soaking bael leaves overnight and drinking the strained water supposedly helps peptic ulcers. Bael leaves are rich in tannins which reduce inflammation and help healing of ulcers. The bael fruit taken in the form of beverage has also great viscous content. This substance forms a coating on the stomach mucosa and thus helps in the healing of ulcer.

Gastroprotection properties

Gastroduodenal ulcers are the most common form of gastric ulcers. Such ulcers develop when there is an imbalance in the acid mucosa levels, or due to oxidative stress along the gastric tract. Experiments gave positive results in gastric ulcer inhibition. The phenolic compounds found in bael extracts possessed potent antioxidants which helped in reducing gastric ulcers.

The leaves contain large amounts of aromatic oils and infusion of leaves is considered a potent medicine for peptic ulcers.

Cholesterol control

Bael leaf extracts were studied for their cholesterol control. They were effective in decreasing blood cholesterol levels comparable to modern drugs. Bael leaf extracts controlled not just blood cholesterol levels but also triglycerides and serum and tissue lipid profiles.

Antimicrobial properties

 Bael leaves, roots and fruit extracts have been studied for their antimicrobial properties. The extracts showed inhibition of many bacterial strains. Apart from bacteria, bael extracts were also effective in controlling fungal and viral infections. The antimicrobial properties are due to the presence of biochemicals such as cuminaldehyde and eugenol.

Anti-Inflammatory

Bael extracts possess anti-inflammatory properties which help in reducing histamine induced contractions and induce positive relaxant effect in the inflamed regions or organs. The leaves are used as a hot poultice to soothe inflammations. Bilva  leaves powder is used  for fomentation in disease condition like swelling pain in ribs.

The anti-inflammatory property of bael fruit is due to the element naming tannins which heals the chronic inflammation. It is also works well in case of gynecological problems and gives relief from related pain.

Respiratory Infections

Medicated oil made up of bael leaf cures cold and respiratory disorders due to certain infections. The equal mixture of juice of bael leaf and sesame oil is the best remedy to get rid of cold, cough and asthma.

The leaf juice, mixed in warm water with a little pepper, is give as a drink to bring relief from wheezing and respiratory spasm

Anti-Pyretic

They are diaphoretic (producing more perspiration), thus reducing temperature and lowering fevers, and an aphrodisiac. A decoction of leaves is a favorite remedy for ailments that often occur during seasonal changes, such as fever, flu and fatigue. The bael fruit also bears anti-fungal and anti–malarial properties, good to use in the treatment of malaria. The seed oil is a purgative, and the leaf juice mixed with honey is a folk remedy for fever. The tannin-rich and alkaloid-rich bark decoction is a folk cure for malaria.

Controls Emesis

The root is the most important part of the tree medicinally, after removing the outer skin. A preparation made from the root with ginger and toasted rice cures vomiting.

Aphrodisiac

The gum of the inside pulp of the fruit is an aphrodisiac (kama-vardhani).

Scurvy

We know that Scurvy is caused due to the deficiency of vitamin C. As bael fruits are rich source of the same vitamin so it helps to recover from the deficiency and cures scurvy.

Snake Bites

The root and leaves of bael are used in the treatment of snake bites from ancient times and found very effective.The pulp is poulticed onto bites and stings of venomous insects, as is the powdered rind.

It has the ability to heal small ulcers inside the bowel which are produced by infection or inflammation.

Heart diseases

Bilva fruit powder works as a cardiac tonic, haemostaic and alleviates swelling, hence is root used in cardiac dedillity and palpitation.Mix the juice of ripe bael fruit with some ghee. Include this mixture in your daily diet to prevent heart related diseases like heart strokes and attacks.

Cooler

Drink bael fruit juice with honey to cure acidity. You can also apply this on your tongue to cure mouth ulcers. Drink bael juice before lunch or dinner to reduce heat and thirst from body. This can be the best drink during the scorching summers!

Skin rash

Mix 30ml of bay leaf juice, cumin with bael juice and drink it twice a day to cure urticaria. This can also be beneficial for skin rash and its symptoms like pale red, raised, itchy bumps.

Anti-Cancer

Consume this juice regularly to prevent or cure cancer.

Control diabetes

Bael juice contains laxatives that are helpful to control the blood sugar levels. It stimulates the pancreas and helps them in enough production of insulin that controls sugar level in the blood.

Culinary Uses

Dried fruit products are achieved by slicing and sun drying the slivers of fruit.  Later, they may be simmered in water.  Leaves from the tree are sometimes eaten as part of a salad.The pulp of ripe fruits is also used to make candies, toffees, squash and nectar.

It can be eaten fresh; also prepared as sun-dried slices, pickled, sherbet, marmalade and syrup. The young leaves and shoots are eaten as a vegetable in Thailand and used to season food in Indonesia.

Bael fruits may be cut in half, or the soft type’s broken open, and the pulp, dressed with palm sugar, eaten for breakfast, as is a common practice in Indonesia. The pulp is often processed as nectar or "squash" (diluted nectar). A popular drink (called "sherbet" in India) is made by beating the seeded pulp together with milk and sugar. A beverage is also made by combining bael fruit pulp with that of tamarind. These drinks are consumed perhaps less as food or refreshment than for their medicinal effects.

Mature but still unripe fruits are made into jam, with the addition of citric acid. The pulp is also converted into marmalade or syrup, likewise for both food and therapeutic use, the marmalade being eaten at breakfast by those convalescing from diarrhea and dysentery. A firm jelly is made from the pulp alone, or, better still, combined with guava to modify the astringent flavor. The pulp is also pickled.

A confection, bael fruit toffee, is prepared by combining the pulp with sugar, glucose, skim milk powder and hydrogenated fat. Indian food technologists view the prospects for expanded bael fruit processing as highly promising. An infusion of the flowers is a cooling drink.

Other Uses

The fruit pulp has detergent action and has been used for washing clothes. Quisumbing  says that bael fruit is employed to eliminate scum in vinegar-making.

The gum enveloping the seeds is most abundant in wild fruits and especially when they are unripe. It is commonly used as household glue and is employed as an adhesive by jewelers. Sometimes it is resorted to as a soap-substitute.

The limonene-rich oil has been distilled from the rind for scenting hair oil. The shell of hard fruits has been fashioned into pill- and snuff boxes, sometimes decorated with gold and silver. The rind of the unripe fruit is employed in tanning and also yields a yellow dye for calico and silk fabrics

 In the Hindu culture, the  bael leaves are indispensable offerings to the 'Lord Shiva'. The leaves and twigs are lopped for fodder.

From the bael flowers, cologne is obtained by distillation.

Artists add fruit pulp to their water color, and it may be applied as a protective coating on paintings.

In rural areas, the fruit, which has binding qualities, is mixed with lime plaster for water proofing wells and is added to cement for building walls in villages.

Precautions

Bael leaves are said to cause abortion and sterility in women

Large quantities may result in digestive disorders and constipation.

Always keep in mind though you want to enjoy bael health benefits, that ripe bael should not be taken at a stretch. Give a short break and then start taking it to get the more efficiency.

Again excessive quantity of bael pulp is hard to digest. As a result you can feel the problem of constant fullness of stomach.

There goes a proverb too regarding the intake of bael leaves that they should not be taken by the young males and females, for the leaves have the power to curb the urge of sex

                                                                          

Mythological importance

Bilva or Aegle Marmelos is the embodiment of Lord Shiva himself and is one of the sacred tree symbols of Hinduism.

Maha Shivaratri is considered the most auspicious time to please Lord Shiva to gain his blessings. What is the simplest way of appeasing Lord Shiva? Offer him Bilva leaves.

The most terrible karma is destroyed when a Bilva leaf is offered to Lord Shiva. The unbelievable merits one receives on offering a single Bilva leaf to Lord Shiva are described in the 9 verses of the sacred hymn known as Bilvashtakam.

Just like Tulsi plant is sacred to Lord Krishna and Durva grass is sacred to Lord Ganesha, Bilva tree is sacred to Lord Shiva. Since the Bilva leaf has such significance in the worship of Lord Shiva, it is common to find Bilva trees cultivated in the vicinity of Shiva temples. The fruits were used in place of coconuts before large-scale rail transportation became available.

The Bilva tree in the Shiva Purana

According to the Shiva Purana (7 AD) the Bilva tree is the manifest form of Lord Shiva himself, while all the great tirthas (pilgrimage places) are said to reside at its base. One who worships the shivalingam while sitting under the Bilva, claims this great epic, and attains the state of Shiva. Washing the head by this tree is said to be the equivalent of bathing in all the sacred rivers. One who performs Bilva pooja with flowers and incense achieves Shiva loka, the abode of pure consciousness, and has happiness and prosperity bestowed upon them. The lighting of the deepak (lamp) before this tree bestows knowledge and enables the devotee to merge in Lord Shiva. The Shiva Purana also claims that if the devotee removes the new leaves from one of the branches of that tree and worships the tree with them, they will be freed from vice, while one who feeds a devotee under the Bilva will grow in virtue.

From the Hindu pantheism point of view this tree is the symbolic representation of Shiva, Parvati, Surya and Lakshmi- the Goddess of Wealth. It is said that no worship of Shiva is complete without offering Bel patra or Bilva leaf. These leaves on the lingam cool and refresh the heated deity. Its trifoliate leaf or tripatra symbolises the three functions-creation, preservation and destruction(Brahma,Vishnu and Mahesh )of the Lord as well as His three eyes.” The tri-foliate form of leaves symbolize the trident that Shiva holds in his right hand.

Quoting the Skanda Purana and explained the origin of Bilva tree, “One day while Parvati was resting some drops of sweat fell from her forehead on the mountain Mandara, from which grew the bel tree, Girija lives on the root of the tree, Maheswari on its shoulder, Dukshayani on its branches, Parvati among its leaves, Katyayani in its fruit, Gauri in its flowers while in thorns the numerous Saktis find a home. It is also believed that Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth, also lives in the bel tree.” Those who perform the puja of Shiva and Parvati devoutly, using the leaves, will be endowed with spiritual powers. The bilva leaves are-symbols of three Gunasaar –Sattva, Raja and Tama.

Really speaking Bilva is medicinally and religiously very powerful. On the one hand it acts as a boost to health and cure for many ailments; on the other hand it has great spiritual significance which permeates the Hindu way of life.

May the next tree you plant be a Bilva Tree! It will not only show your commitment towards greening the environment, but also display your concern for humanity, given such divine merits and medicinal value of the Bilva Tree.A bilva sapling must be tenderly nurtured and protected until it has reached a certain height right for transplanting. Quite like a fragile baby bird that must be carefully tended until such time it leaves the nest to flourish independently.

May the almighty Lord Shiva bless you all with perfect health.

Happy Mahashivratri!

Healthy Panch Phoron ( 5 Spice Mix)

                                         

Panch phoron (five-spice mix) is a spice blend used in Bangladesh and Eastern India, especially in Bengali, Assamese, and Oriya cuisine.

Panch phoron literally means five spices. Panch means "five" and phoron is "flavour" or "spice", hence the common translation Five-Spice".  It’s a blend of Cumin seeds, Fennel seeds, Mustard seeds, Nigella seeds and Fenugreek seeds.Unlike most spice mixes, paanch phoron is always used whole and never ground.

All of the spices in paanch phoron are seeds.These five little seeds combined together can change the flavor of a humble dish. They are known as paanch phoron in Bengali kitchens and paanch phutana in Odiya households. Kitchens in Eastern India are incomplete without this aromatic spice mix.

Variations

Some prefer to use a smaller proportion of fenugreek seeds, which have a mildly bitter taste.

Some variations may substitute aniseed for the fennel seeds or wild mustard for cumin, radhuni seed for mustard, and possibly black cumin for nigella.

Generally the ingredients are added in equal proportions, though this can vary according to taste.

How to use

Panch phoron is usually fried in oil or ghee before adding anything else to the pot, flavouring the oil and releasing the aroma of the  seeds and causing them to pop in the pan.

This technique is called "baghaar" (literally "tempering") in Oriya, "phoron" in Bengali, and "chaunk" in Hindi. At this point, one adds the other ingredients to coat with the spice mixture.

Panch phoron is usually  added in vegetable stir-fry’s, lentils,fish recipes and pickles etc.

Finely crushed panch phoran can be prepared by roasting the whole spices and then crushing them into fine powder. A blender may be used for this purpose. The finely crushed panch phoran are used for marinades or stews or soups.

Ingredients:

1 part nigella (Kalonji ) seeds

1 part black mustard seeds

1 part fenugreek seeds

1 part fennel seeds

1 part cumin seeds

Flavours

Each spice brings out a distinctive flavor.

Cumin has a unique flavor and adds an earthy, strong and warm flavor.

Fennel is highly aromatic and slightly sweet.

Mustard has a sharp, hot and pungent flavor.

Nigella seeds have a peppery and smoky flavor.

Fenugreek is very aromatic and has a slightly bitter taste.

Colors

Panch phoron is a colorful blend of flavorful seeds

The green of fennel seed

Black  mustard and nigella seeds,

Golden fenugreek and buff-colored cumin seeds.

                                                                     

Synonyms

Panch phora, panch puran, panchpuran, punch poran, punch puram, punchpuram, panch phutana etc. 

How to select

Avoid purchasing pre ground or crushed panch phoran, because its volatile aromatic notes quickly dissipate and what's left is single-dimensional hotness. Whole panch phoran should be heavy, compact and free of any blemishes. Just like with other dried spices, when purchasing panch phoran, try to select that which is organically grown since this will give you more assurance that it has not been irradiated. While buying packaged panch phoran, check the expiry date and feel for lumpiness (sign of moisture inside the packet.)

Storage

The panch phoran should be kept in a tightly sealed glass container in a cool, dark and dry place.

                                                                                  

Health Benefits

Spices are the natural way of caring for yourself. In fact, special preparations of spices are an integral part of Indian culture and society and help the doctor away. Spices can’t only improve the taste of your food, but can also improve the state of your health. Spice provides a wealth of flavors to a range of colourful, aromatic, multi – textured cuisines across the country.

Apart from imparting a unique flavour and taste, the five types of spices used in panch phoran have significant health benefits too..

Ayurvedic point of view..

According to Ayurveda, including all the six tastes sweet, sour, salty, bitter, pungent and astringent in each main meal contributes to mind and body balance.

Aroma of the spices as they pop and splutter in hot oil has such an amazing effect on the olfactory system, that craving for more is not an option, but a must!

This famous combination of panch phoron is the mild spices used to support digestion. They have vata and kapha pacifying properties without increasing pitta.

Now we will look into General and Ayurvedic properties of each spice. 

                                                                               

        Cumin seeds

• The presence of cumin will stimulate the secretion of pancreatic enzymes for proper digestion and nutrient assimilation. As with other carminative spices, cumin's digestive stimulating effects are due to its content of volatile oils.
• Cumin seeds also boost the power of the liver to flush out toxins from the body.
• These seeds are very rich in Iron, which makes it an essential natural health ingredient.
• Anti-oxidant characteristics of cumin fight against impurities and free radicals thereby making the body immunity better in combating diseases.
• Cumin has antiseptic and anti-microbial properties. It keeps various viral infections at bay. Cumin has been found to be very beneficial for the respiratory organs. Because of its warm nature it helps in suppressing the mucus formation.
• They help in the secretion of anti-carcinogenic enzymes and helps in preventing the growth of cancer cells. It is known to provide strong radical scavenging activity.              

Ayurvedic View-Cumin is bitter and slightly pungent.  It decreases Vata and Kapha and increases Pitta if taken in high doses.In Sanskrit, Cumin is known as jiraka. Jira means “that which helps digestion”. Ayurveda considers jiraka as one of the best digestive tonics. Some of the Ayurvedic health benefits of cumin are that it dispels gas, eliminates toxins, is a mild laxative, and is anti-inflammatory.Cumin kindles the gastric fire or the agni (digestive fire). 

        Mustard seeds

• Mustard seeds are a good source of dietary fibers that improve digestion in the body. They make the bowel movements better, thus improving the overall metabolism of the body.
• Mustard is a good source of selenium and magnesium. Selenium helps people with asthma and rheumatoid arthritis while magnesium lowers high blood pressure, reduces migraines and also prevents heart attack.
• Mustard seeds are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids as well as iron, calcium, zinc, manganese, magnesium, protein, niacin and dietary fiber.
• The seeds contain a unique substance called mucilage which is a thick slimy substance that is the key to relieving constipation.
• In addition, mustard seeds are known to increase the production of saliva, leading to better digestion.
• Tocopherols present in mustard inhibit growth of certain yeasts, molds, and bacteria, enabling mustard to function as a natural preservative.                                    

Ayurvedic View - Mustard is bitter and pungent in taste with a hot potency. It is acrid, thermogenic, anti-inflammatory, carminative, digestive, and tonic in quality and is recommended in vitiated conditions of Vata and Kapha, malarial fevers, colic pain, anorexia, dyspepsia, intestinal worms, flatulence,and inflammations.

        Fenugreek Seeds

• Fenugreek is one of the healthiest foods that a diabetic person can consume. It has been found to lower the blood sugar level in the body and increase the tolerance of glucose. It is high in dietary fiber like Galactomannan which slows down the absorption of sugar in the blood.
• Fenugreek aids digestion. It releases mucilage which produces a protective layer for stomach and intestines and lowers gastric problems and indigestion.
• Fenugreek seeds in your food can be an effective remedy for acid reflux or heartburn.
• Fenugreek seeds help in lowering LDL cholesterol in the blood and increases HDL in the body. They help in lowering triglycerides.  
• It is rich in many essential minerals. Iron helps in the production of RBC cells and increases hemoglobin in the body. Potassium helps in lowering the blood pressure in the body.
• Health benefits of fenugreek include anti-inflammatory properties. Thus, fenugreek can be helpful against arthritis.                                                                               

Ayurvedic View-Fenugreek is a very warming seed that mitigates kapha and vata dosha and is used to treat constipation, high cholesterol, diabetes and obesity. It's useful in inflammatory disorders,joint pains and in diabetes etc.It is an appetizer and anti inflammatory. They have a strong aroma and are pungent. But when used in small quantities they impart flavor to your food and are nourishing. It is an appetizer and anti inflammatory.   

          Fennel Seeds

• Fennel is known to improve cognitive functions in a person. It is also helpful in the proper circulation of oxygen to the brain cells and nerves which make them active. Memory is enhanced by its consumption.
• Fennel is diuretic and thus can be helpful in flushing out the toxins from the body and providing healthy body.
• It is high in dietary fibre, Vitamin-A and Vitamin-C.  Minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc and phosphorous can also be found in it.
• LDL cholesterol can be lowered by its consumption as it is rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients. Even good HDL cholesterol increases by fennel consumption.
• Fennel is high in anti-carcinogenic compounds like antioxidants, flavonoids, alkaloids and phenols.  

Ayurvedic View- Fennel is described as being especially good for reducing colic. Fennel is also known for its ability to improve mandagni (low digestion ) It also helps in the case of constipation (baddhavit), and fights krimi (pathogenic microbes).

           Nigella / Kalonji Seeds

• It is also known to benefit the stomach because of its anti-bacterial properties.
• It possesses heart-protective qualities, dampening damages associated with heart attacks and boosting overall heart health.
• The pharmacological investigations of the seed extracts reveal a broad spectrum of activities including immunopotentiation, antihistaminic, antidiabetic, anti-hypertensive, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial activities.
• The seeds are also rich in sterols, especially beta-sitosterol, which is known to have anti carcinogenic activity.
• Black seed helps to ease gastro-intestinal disorders. It contains an essential oil nigellone that helps to cleanse the stomach thoroughly. It also stimulates bile, therefore aiding the digestive process.
• So, it's time to move over all those exotic spices. Just revel in the power of five for an authentic taste.  

                                                                                                                                               Ayurvedic view- Kalonji  is a very good Ayurvedic medicine and Ayurved appreciates its many qualities and bitter, warming, stimulant nature.It also has vata and kapha reducing traits. It is used in wide variety of diseases like hemorrhoids, hepatitis, fever, diarrhea, cough, and tapeworm, to mention only a few of them. Nigella Sativa works in a different way, which makes it suitable for diseases of the immune system itself, eg. Allergies; TB; cancer; aids etc.

Conclusion

The five spices used in Panch phoron have immence health benefits.Only few important health benefits have been mentioned above as it's interminable to quote all the uses.

There are enormous health advantages of this healthy unification if used regularly in the diet. If you have not tried this strong authentic flavorful spice blend, do give it a shot.

Squatting – the best toilet posture....

                            

The best posture for passing stools is squatting. In this position, waste elimination is easier, faster and complete.Sitting, on the other hand, obstructs the passage of waste through the colon. Elimination is difficult, requires straining and can never be complete.

Ayurveda recommends that one should evacuate the bowels every morning, and feel that the colon is clean and light. Feeling energetic and relaxed are signs of proper evacuation. Inability to completely evacuate the bowels or passing very hard stools is known as Constipation or Vibandh in Ayurveda. This prevalent problem is due to an incorrect lifestyle and poor eating patterns.  Wrong position for evacuation can also be one of the major reasons. Squatting is the most natural and physiologically sound posture to use for evacuation.  Proper elimination is one of the basic core foundations for a healthy digestive system and good absorption of nutrients. To aid this process and allow the body to make use of its natural urge, a squatting style toilet has been used for centuries. In fact, constipation in a huge percentage of cases can be avoided by just switching to a squatting style toilet! Now, people all over the world who are constipated are advised to squat for a couple of minutes before going to the bathroom or to use a squatting stool. This simple and efficient method can take a little while to get accustomed to but can go a long way in preventing constipation and hundreds of other gastrointestinal problems.

One should try to have a bowel movement daily. If one doesn't have the bowel movement, it is good to simply squat for a few minutes without forcing. Practicing this daily, following the consumption of the glass of Luke warm water will develop a good habit in promoting consistent and healthy bowel movement.

Western toilet seat to blame for constipation?

Constipation, while not life-threatening in most case, can be quite debilitating. Being constipated can lead to an array of problems: bad breath, weight gain, allergies, bloating, poor nutrient assimilation, fatigue, migraine, breakouts, heart burn, lower back pain and sadly, the list goes on. Unfortunately, many people even grew to believe that going to the toilet 2-3 times a week is normal. It is a bad news since all the waste that is not eliminated is rotting inside and changes the blood chemistry in your body allowing the disease to set in.

Digestion builds blood and feeds all our organs. To create good blood and healthy new cells, we need good digestion.

If fecal matter stays inside too long food starts to rot and creates toxins and waste products. Waste products can irritate the intestines. Overtime constipation can result in gray, lusterless skin, emotional disturbances, tight muscles, low immunity and joint pain.

                                                         

                           

Advantages of Squatting

• Makes elimination faster, easier and more complete. This helps prevent "fecal stagnation," a prime factor in colon cancer, appendicitis and inflammatory bowel disease.
• Protects the nerves that control the prostate, bladder and uterus from becoming stretched and damaged.
• Securely seals the ileocecal valve, between the colon and the small intestine. In the conventional sitting position, this valve is unsupported and often leaks during evacuation, contaminating the small intestine.
• Relaxes the puborectalis muscle which normally chokes the rectum in order to maintain continence.
• Squatting lifts the sigmoid colon to unlock the "kink" at the entrance to the rectum. This kink also helps prevent incontinence, by taking some of the pressure off the puborectalis muscle.
• Gravity does most of the work. The weight of the torso presses against the thighs and naturally compresses the colon. Gentle pressure from the diaphragm supplements the force of gravity.
• Uses the thighs to support the colon and prevent straining. Chronic straining on the toilet can cause hernias, diverticulitis, and pelvic organ prolapse.
• For pregnant women, squatting avoids pressure on the uterus when using the toilet. Daily squatting helps prepare one for a more natural delivery hence Malasana (Garland pose) is advised in prenatal yoga .
• When in squatting posture urinary bladder evacuates completely, because in this position the human body is more naturally relaxed and that helps urine to completely leave our body thereby preventing various urinary disorders.
• Squatting also helps to tone and strengthen the leg muscles.

Historical Background

Man, like his fellow primates, has always used the squatting position for resting, working and performing bodily functions. Infants of every culture instinctively squat to relieve themselves. Although it may seem strange to someone who has spent his entire life deprived of the experience, this is the way the human body was designed to function.And this is the way our ancestors performed their bodily functions until the middle of the 19th century. Before that time, chair-like toilets had only been used by royalty and the disabled. But with the advent of indoor plumbing in the 1800's, the throne-like water closet was invented to give ordinary people the same "dignity" previously reserved for kings and queens.

The plumber and cabinet maker who designed it had no knowledge of human physiology – and sincerely believed that they were improving people's lives.

The British plumbing industry moved quickly to install indoor plumbing and water closets throughout the country. The great benefits of improved sanitation caused people to overlook a major ergonomic blunder: The sitting position makes elimination difficult and incomplete, and forces one to strain.

The rest of Western Europe, as well as Australia and North America, did not want to appear less civilized than Great Britain, whose vast empire at the time made it the most powerful country on Earth. So, within a few decades, most of the industrialized world had adopted "The Emperor's New Throne."

150 years ago, no one could have predicted how this change would affect the health of the population. But today, many physicians blame the modern toilet for the high incidence of a number of serious ailments. Westernized countries have much higher rates of colon and pelvic disease, as compared to developing countries.

This theory reflects the common belief that our society is "clean" while the developing world is "dirty." In terms of colon hygiene, exactly the opposite is the case. What protects the developing world from bowel disease is the natural cleanliness that comes from evacuating as nature intended. By contrast, our contrived toilet posture leads to fecal stagnation – the primary cause of colon cancer and inflammatory bowel disease. 

                                      

                        

There are several ways you can manage to turn your present toilet into one where you can squat:

A few companies made ‘going back’ to the squatting basics a bit easier for us spoiled Westerners. Squatty Potty, Health Step, and The Welles Step are among a few of those products. Here is how Squatty Potty is described..
“The Squatty Potty helps you to eliminate faster and more complete by putting your body into a natural squatting position over your own toilet. Using the Squatty Potty during elimination will un-kink your rectum taking your body from a continent mode to an elimination mode. This will speed up the elimination process therefore reducing the risk of toxic build up of fecal matter left in your colon. Using the squatty potty for elimination will reduce straining and decreases the pressure in the anal and rectal veins. The reduction of straining will help to heal and prevent hemorrhoids. It will also reduce the risk of bowel herniation and other damage to the lower digestive tract. The Squatty Potty is attractive and will discretely tuck under your toilet bowl when not in use. Its versatile design allows for both a forward and backward slant to ergonomically align the body for a comfortable and complete elimination.”

It can be used by men and women of all ages; pregnant women may find it especially comforting and relieving, according to the Health Step reviews.
You can get detailed information about squatty Potty in the link given below

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pYcv6odWfTM

Pile up bricks around your toilet (make sure they are safe and sturdy)

Consider having a real eastern toilet in your house               Conclusion  Trying to evacuate while sitting is like trying to drive a car without releasing the parking brake.In frustration, one pushes down forcefully depressing the pelvic floor many times each day.In short, the porcelain throne has caused enormous amounts of needless suffering, and the annual waste of billions of dollars in health-care costs. Clearly, the time has come to reacquaint people with natural habits for evacuation used by our ancestors.

        Stay Healthy!!

Medicinal Properties of Ajamoda (carom seeds)

                                                                            

                                                                            

Carom seeds or bishop’s weed also known as ajwain is a common herb found in Indian households and is well known for properties that make it one of the most used home remedies. But other than being a good digestive aid, it has a number of other health benefits which are not known to common people.

Plant description…

A valuable Ayurvedic ingredient Ajwain or bishop's weed is cultivated in black soil particularly along the riverbank throughout India and also Iran, Egypt and Afghanistan. It is a small, erect, annual shrub with soft fine hairs. It has many branches of leafy stems, small feather like leaves, and 4 to 12 rays of flower heads, each bearing 6 to 16 flowers. The fruits are minute, egg shaped and grayish.

Nomenclature…

Common name • Bengali: জোয়ান Jowan • Gujarati: યવણો Yavano • Hindi: अजवाइन, अजवायन Ajwain • Kannada: ajamoola, oma, omu, ajamoda • Marathi: ओवा Ova • Nepali: जवानो Javano • Sanskrit: अजमोद Ajamoda, अजमोदिका Ajamodika, dipyaka,• Tamil: ஓமம் Omam • Telugu: omaan, vamu • Urdu: अजवाइन Ajwain

Botanical name: Trachyspermum ammi    Family: Apiaceae (Carrot family)

English names: Bishop's Weed, Carom Seeds, Thymol Seeds

According to ayurveda…

Ajwain is an indigenous spice used in ayurveda from ancient times. Ajwain, sometimes called ajowan, is a commonly used ayurvedic spice. Ajwain is a popular spice throughout India. It used in savory snacks like Farsan. Ajwain seeds are found in most Indian households due to their medicinal properties. Ajwain is considered to be an effective medicine for treating indigestion.

During ancient times ayurvedic physicians used ajwain in many ailments like colds, flu, water retention, poor digestion, fevers, various types of arthritis, liver and spleen ailments. It promotes kidney function, energizes the nerves, is a powerful decongestant for both the digestive and respiratory tract, clearing out deep-seated ama (toxins), reviving stagnant metabolic functioning, relieving intestinal spasms, vitalizing Prana, samana & udana, It is often used in weight-reducing formulas.

Ajwain seeds or bishop's weed is an effective ingredient in preparing many ayurvedic and unani medicines. It helps in curing the disorders such as ulcers, ringworm, itching, stomach worm, bile, menstrual and post-natal disorders, leucorrhoea, female infertility, pimples, kidney stones and many more, and also useful as an aphrodisiac.

Ajwain is pungent and hot, stomachic, bitter, spasmodic, germicidal, antiseptic, appetizer, digestive, aphrodisiac, anthelmintic, carminative, diuretic, diaphoretic, laxative , antipyretic, expectorant and an extra ordinary stomach tonic. It is counted among the 10 foremost herbs known for their anti-colic or anti-spasmodic action.

Rasa: Katu, Tikta

Guna: Laghu, Ruksha, Tikshna

Virya: Ushna

Vipaka: Katu

Karma: Sulahara, Anulomana, Dipana, Krmighna, Pacana, Rucya

Dosha effect: Pacifies the Vata and Kapha, may increase Pitta( if taken in excess)

Dhatu effect (tissues): Plasma, marrow, nerves

Chemical constituents

The main chemical constituents of the seeds of the herb are 21.8% fat, 21.2% fibre, and 24.6% carbohydrates per 100 grams of the seeds. The main minerals in the seeds are calcium, phosphorus and iron, while its major vitamins are carotene, thiamine, riboflavin and niacin. When crushed, the seeds yield an essential oil, 50% of which consists of thymol, a well-known antiseptic compound.

Selection and storage

Ajwain is readily available in spice stores specialized in Indian or Middle-Eastern items. In general, whole ajwain seeds displayed for sale unlike in other spices such as dill, cumin, coriander, etc. Buy fresh, wholesome, compact seeds that give rich thyme like flavor when rubbed between fingers. Dried Ajmoda is best purchased in small amounts and regularly, as it loses its color and flavor rapidly when sitting on a supermarket shelf. Look for deep-green 'flakes' that are free from pieces of stalk and yellow leaves.

Once at home, store the seeds in an airtight container and place in cool dark place away from sunlight, and humidity. Generally, ajowain seeds should be used as early as possible since they lose flavor rather quickly, largely because of evaporation of essential oils.

Culinary uses

Ajwain seeds mainly feature in savory Indian, Pakistani, and Middle-Eastern cooking. In order to keep the fragrance and flavor intact, ajowan seeds are generally crushed just before preparing dishes and added to the cooking recipes at final stages. This is because prolonged cooking results in evaporation of essential oils. They are quite peppery when raw, but milder when cooked.

Tadka or Tempering is a cooking method in which cooking oil is heated till very hot and whole spices are added to it and fried. This oil and spice mix is then added as a final touch or garnish to the dish. In Indian cooking, Ajwain is often part of (panchphoran) the Tadka in a dish.  This is because of its strong, dominant flavor. Ajwain is also used in vegetable dishes (for its distinctive taste) and pickles (for its preservative qualities). Ajwain has properties that help it reduce the flatulence causing effect of beans. It also aids in digestion.

In Punjab province of India and Pakistan, the spice seeds particularly added to make bread known as ajwain paratha. Some Indian vegetarian bean/lentil and chicken/fish curries contain this spice and in the Middle East, it is used to flavor meat and rice dishes.

Ajwain is commonly added to deep-fried foods, such as fritters, in Indian cooking, to help ease of digestion. A pinch added to buttermilk or digestive lassi can promote digestion if taken after lunch. Add a pinch to rice as it is cooking, for aroma and flavor. Ajwain can be combined with other spices such as turmeric, paprika, cumin, black pepper, fennel and coriander.

The seeds used generously as condiment in snacks, spicy biscuits, to flavor drinks, soups, sauces in India.Due to its multiple benefits it is the part and parcel of every Indian kitchen.

Safety profile

Since ajwain seeds induce gut secretions, they may exacerbate existing stomach ulcer/ulcer bleeding conditions.In addition, recipes prepared using this spice may be avoided in individuals with liver diseases, ulcerative colitis etc.

Since it’s hot in potency it should be limitedly used in hot climates and can be freely used in cold climates.

Medicinal Uses

Gastro-intestinal disorders

Ajwain is packed with thymol. In fact it’s the only plant in the world with the highest amount of thymol. This chemical is very effective in helping the stomach release gastric juices that speed up digestion. It is known to help in cases of indigestion, flatulence, nausea and relieve colicky pain in babies.

As a carminative, it relieves intestinal gas, pain & distention, & promotes peristalsis.For relieving flatulence, dyspepsia and spasmodic disorders; the seeds may be eaten with betel leaves. A teaspoon of ajwain with a little rock salt is a household remedy for indigestion. Ajwain oil given in doses of 1 to 3 drops is useful in cholera, flatulent, colic, diarrhea, a tonic dyspepsia and indigestion. Ajwain water is given in doses of 30 to 60 grams to check vomiting in early stages of cholera.

Tip: Boil a teaspoon of the seeds in a cup of water till it is reduced to half, strain and drink this water for instant relief.

Improves digestion when you’re pregnant or lactating

Due to its great anti-inflammatory and curative properties, ajwain is great for pregnant and lactating mothers. It helps to improve digestion, ward off constipation due to pregnancy and strengthens the muscles that make up the floor of the uterus. After pregnancy ajwain is known to heal the woman’s body internally, reduce inflammation and helps maintain good circulation. In some cultures it is also believed to improve the production of milk in lactating mothers. It helps to cleanse the uterus & benefit digestion during pregnancy; it is prescribed, and beneficial for post-delivery fever.

During pregnancy, Ajwain is given with gud (Jaggery) in order to treat lumbago (Kamar dard). According to the healers, the use of Ajwain with gud, not only cures the lumbago but also purifies the blood and act as tonic.

Tip: It is important that mothers-to-be do not eat too much of this seed. The seed is known to increase the heat causing pitta levels in the body and can cause problems with the pregnancy.

Respiratory Problems

Common Cold

In an acute attack of common cold or migraine headache, put Ajwain powder in a thin cloth and smell this frequently. It gives tremendous symptomatic relief.

For bronchitis

If you have chronic bronchitis and asthma, take the mixture of Ajwain and jaggery, heat it to make a paste and take 2 teaspoonfuls twice a day. However, diabetics should not take this preparation because of the sugar content. It helps to bring out the mucus easily and alleviates chronic bronchitis and asthma to great extent. It also helps in getting relief from chronic cold.

Another quick method is to tie it in a soft cloth and heat the bundle over a warm tawa. Apply this warm bundle over the chest to relieve congestion immediately.

Taking one-teaspoon ajwain with hot water morning and evening lesson sputum in bronchitis and asthama cases.

For Cough

Ajwain is very effective in curing cough. One can drink hot water after chewing little Ajwain to cure cough. You can chew betel leaf with Ajwain at night before sleeping to control and cure dry cough.

For nasal congestion

A tablespoon of crushed Ajwain tied up in a small cloth bundle can be used for inhalation. It also relieves nasal congestion while sleeping when placed near the pillow.

For flu

A person suffering from influenza should drink the boiled water with 3gms of Ajwain and 3gms of Cinnamon bark for 3 days, thrice a day. This helps in curing influenza to a great extent.
Rheumatic and arthritic pain

Due to its anti-inflammatory and anaesthetic properties, ajwain is a good way to get rid of pain due to rheumatism and arthritis. Try soaking your aching joints in a pan of warm water with a few seeds of ajwain. Alternatively you could crush the seed and apply the paste on the affected area for instant relief.

The oil extracted from seeds is beneficial in the treatment of rheumatic and neuralgic pains. It should be applied on the affected parts.They are an excellent pain-killer and act as an anodyne, soothing, calming, comforting and diminishing pain due to presence of thymol.

Care should be taken while applying oil directly to sensitive skin. Dilute ajwain seed oil with some base oil (sesame or coconut oil).
Mouth disorders

An infusion of seeds mixed with common salt is an effective gargle to cure pharyngitis, sore and congested throat and hoarseness of the voice due to colds or shouting.
Earache

Due to its antiseptic properties ajwain mixed with garlic and sesame oil provides instant relief from earache.

Aphrodisiac Properties

Ajwain is a great aphrodisiac. Mixing ajwain with the seeds of tamrind, honey, ghee and milk is a great way to increase vitality. Having the mixture every day helps improve vitality and libido. Soaking the seeds in lemon juice and drying them seven times will cure impotence when ingested

Keeps the heart healthy

Due to the presence of niacin and thymol along with other vitamins, ajwain is very good in maintaining heart health. It has properties that improve nerve impulses and overall circulation within the heart. Tip: Have ajwain boiled in hot water on an empty stomach regularly to keep heart disease at bay.

Cures hiccups

 As mentioned earlier, ajwain has properties that help reduce inflammation and soothes irritated nerves. Because of this, it is a great remedy to stop hiccups instantly. Have a few raw ajwain seeds with a few sips of warm water and watch your hiccups vanish instantly.

Remedy for acidity

Since it helps improve digestion, ajwain also helps in relieving acidity. Mix one teaspoon of ajwain with one teaspoon of jeera (cumin) and boil them in a glass of water. The solution should have a golden colour. Drink this whenever there is an attack of acidity for instant relief.

Relieves pain due to migraines

Sniffing the fumes of ajwain or applying its paste on the head helps to obtain relief from migraine and delirium. When the seed is burned or crushed into a poultice, it releases its essential oils high in thymol content.

Toothache

Give smoke to the aching tooth by burning ajwain seeds after two hour do gargle with lukewarm water (prepared by boiling 1 tsp. ground ajwain with little salt) two to three times a day, it cures tooth pain. It is used in Ayurvedic tooth powders.

They are an excellent pain-killer and act as an anodyne, soothing, calming, comforting and diminishing pain. They contain the essential oil thymol, which acts very quickly on the system.

Fights body odour

Instead of using chemical deodorants to mask body odor, ajwan tea will cure the cause of the odor from the inside out by destroying bad bacteria.

Urinary disorders

Ajwain leaves seem to prevent formation of kidney stones. In kidney stone removal home- made herbal remedy of Ajwain works well. Patients are to intake Ajwain seeds with honey or vinegar for a week regularly, this medicine helps to remove stone through urine flow. As a diuretic, it promotes the activity of kidney & bladder & increase urination, and as a lithotripter, it dissolves & discharges gall bladder & urinary stones & gravel.

For Alcoholics

If people who consume excessive alcohol develop discomfort in the stomach, taking Ajwain twice a day, will be very useful. It will also reduce the craving and desire for alcohol.

Venomous insect bite

In traditional Vedic medicine, paste of ajwain seeds is mentioned as a remedy for venomous insect bite such as scorpion bite, as it has pain killing properties.

Reduce weight

Drink half glass of water with soaked carom seeds on an empty stomach. This will dissolve the fats. Consume 1tsp of carom seeds on an empty stomach every morning. This remedy needs to be continued for 3-4 months consistently for notable result.

Paralysis

Carom seeds soaked in water and consumed daily can be useful in treating paralysis, trembling and shaking.

Bed Wetting

Take 50 grams black sesame, 25 grams carom seeds and 100 grams of jaggery. Mix them well. Consume this mixture 1tsp twice a day. This will help in treating frequent urination and bedwetting especially in kids.

Urticaria

Consume 1 gram of carom seeds with 3 grams of jaggery. This is a useful remedy to cure this.

Acidity

Dry roast one teaspoon of ajwain seeds and cumin seeds. Add to it one cup of water and bring it to boil and strain it. Add some sugar and take one teaspoon as a remedy for indigestion and acidity

                                    

Products derived from ajmoda…

Ajmoda ark/owa water

Ajwain water that is the water distilled from the ajwain seeds in an excellent carminative that cures flatulence, indigestion & low appetite.

Ajmoda oil

Ajwain seeds, when crushed and put through the process of Steam distillation, yield essential oil with high medicinal value because it contains Thymol. This oil has long been believed to be the principal source of Thymol.

Ajwain tea

Method to make Ajwain tea

Ingredients

Water 1 cup

Milk 1 cup

Cumin ¼ tsp

Sugar 2 tsp

Ajwain 1/4 tsp

Cinnamon 1 pinch

Method

Take 1 cup of water. Add ajwain, cumin and cinnamon. Bring to a boil.

Then add milk and sugar. Bring to a boil and let simmer till the desired color is obtained.

Cover for a minute.

Strain & serve.

Benefits

Consumption of carom seeds tea can help in cleansing body toxins. Thus, this can reduce many skin and health related problems. This helps to purify blood and improve the blood flow in body.

Useful in alleviating colds and cough. Aids digestion and stimulates metabolism.

Other uses

Mosquito repellent:

Mix mustard oil with ground carom seeds. Dip cardboard pieces in this mixture and tie in the corners of your room. This will help you get rid of the mosquitoes from the room.

Facts about carom seeds:

Keep them away from humidity and also from direct sunlight.

Carom seeds cannot be stored for a long time.

Avoid over consumption. It can lead to nausea, vomiting, skin irritation, allergy and headache in some people.

Proper intake doesn't have any side effects.

Store them in air-tight bottle in a cool and dry place.