CUMIN

Cuminum cyminum

AKA Kammom, Kammun, Jeera

Cumin is not an essential oil that is commonly found in retail aromatherapy ranges and is not particularly enjoyable (in my opinion) to use just for its aroma, which is a spicy, green, warming curry like aroma with punch. it’s a workhorse oil. It’s an amazing energising & grounding oil.  Stimulating yet calming on the mind, digestive system & musculoskeletal systems.

Cumin Essential Oil is obtained by extraction from cumin seeds and carries the same therapeutic benefits as raw cumin.  Not to be confused with black cumin (aka black seed).   Due to its intense and pungent aroma it is best used sparingly in aromatherapy blends and should not be used in dilutes over 0.4% (approximately 8 drops in 100ml of base).  Cumin is a popular spice, a member of the parsley family, that has been used for thousands of years and is traditionally reputed to improve immunity, aiding digestion and even weight loss.  Cumin is used to improve circulation, lower blood pressure and for detoxification. 

Perfumery: Middle Note

Chakra: Solar plexus & throat

Dosha: Balances all three doshas.

Skin & hair care: Regulates sebum production, eliminating acne-causing bacteria, astringent, antiseptic and anti-bacterial, skin toner. Soothes an itchy scalp and improves hair strength & shine.

Mental & Emotional: Helps ground and quiet the mind, bringing feelings of peace and clarity. Enhances mood, reduced feelings of tension & anxiety, improves sleep quality & increases mental alertness & memory. Eases nervous exhaustion.

Physical: Improves circulation, stimulates, calms & improves the entire digestive process

Increases Breastmilk production & regulates menstruation.  Increases Thyroid function & aids weight loss. Detoxifying & reduces fluid retention.  Pain relief of Rheumatoid arthritis, Rheumatism, Muscular aches and Pains & Migraines.

Eases asthma & soothes coughs.

Action: Antibacterial, Carminative, Digestive, Diuretic, Antiseptic, Anti-spasmodic, Emmenagogue, Nervine, Tonic.

Safety: Considered toxic in aromatherapy, never use on sensitive, hypersensitive, diseased or damaged skin, or on mucous membranes, Cumin is photosensitising & must be avoided during pregnancy.  Due to cumin being a photosensitiser and dermal irritant it is always recommended to use in a dilution of 0.4% or less.  Excess Cumin shows anti-fertility, emmenagogue & mild abortifacient properties.

Here is a simple recipe incorporating Cumin & Rosemary to create a hair treatment serum for strong, healthy beautiful hair.

Cumin & Rosemary Hair Serum

1. In a 100ml glass bottle add 60ml of jojoba oil, 20ml of black seed oil and 20ml of argan oil.
2. Add 8 drops of cumin oil, 10 drops of rosemary oil, 5 drops of lavender & 5 drops of neem seed oil.
3. Close lid and shake well. Label and date (2 years expiry) keep out of reach of children. 
4. To use: add approx. 20ml to damp hair and massage throughout the hair and scalp. Can be left in overnight or for just 20min.  Wash and Condition as usual afterwards.

And a simple body cream for toned supple skin.

Cumin & Calendula Body Toning Cream

1. In a large jar add 120ml of jojoba cream or another natural base cream.
2. Add 10 drops of cumin oil, 5 drops or rose oil, 2 drops of turpentine oil, 2 drops of Roman chamomile oil & 2 drops of Sandalwood oil.
3. Add 30ml of calendula infused oil and 10ml of rosehip oil. Stir well, cap and shake.  Label and date (1 year expiry)
4. Best used as a night body cream, be sure to avoid direct sunlight for at least 12 hours after application.