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 and grounding oil. Stimulating yet calming on the mind, digestive system and 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 and shine.
Mental & Emotional: Helps ground and quiet the mind, bringing feelings of peace and clarity. Enhances mood, reduced feelings of tension and anxiety, improves sleep quality and increases mental alertness and memory. Eases nervous exhaustion.
Physical: Improves circulation, stimulates, calms and improves the entire digestive process
Increases Breast milk production and regulates menstruation. Increases Thyroid function and aids weight loss. Detoxifying and reduces fluid retention. Pain relief of Rheumatoid arthritis, Rheumatism, Muscular aches and Pains and Migraines.
Eases asthma and 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 and 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 and mild abortifacient properties.
Here is a simple recipe incorporating Cumin and Rosemary to create a hair treatment serum for strong, healthy beautiful hair.
Cumin & Rosemary Hair Serum
- In a 100ml glass bottle add 60ml of jojoba oil, 20ml of black seed oil and 20ml of argan oil.
- Add 8 drops of cumin oil, 10 drops of rosemary oil, 5 drops of lavender & 5 drops of neem seed oil.
- Close lid and shake well. Label and date (2 years expiry) keep out of reach of children.
- 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
- In a large jar add 120ml of jojoba cream or another natural base cream.
- 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.
- Add 30ml of calendula infused oil and 10ml of rosehip oil. Stir well, cap and shake. Label and date (1 year expiry)
- Best used as a night body cream, be sure to avoid direct sunlight for at least 12 hours after application.
Toni McMahon
Plant Essentials
Ph: 07 4420 1888