Ajwain for Constipation: Uses, Benefits, Side Effects, 13 FAQs and More
Carom seeds (Ajwain) is one of the most important kitchen ingredients as it is used in a lot of dishes to enhance flavour. But, did you know that it is used for a lot of home remedies as well? Its health and medicinal benefits are known to treat constipation, indigestion, gas, acidity and stomach pain. Thymol is a substance present in Ajwain which smoothes the secretion of gastric juices and improves digestion thus bringing relief from constipation. In fact, according to research conducted at the National Botanical Research Institute, caraway or ajwain is a potent carminative which eases flatulence and constipation. Here are all the benefits of ajwain for constipation and digestion.
Also, read in Hindi about Carom seeds
Health Benefits of Ajwain
Carom seeds or Ajwain is quite popular for its health benefits especially related to digestive issues. Let’s note some of the benefits of Ajwain in brief
Acts as a panacea for overeating
When you overeat, digestion slows down causing discomfort, flatulence, and gas. Ajwain improves the secretion of gastric juices to promote quicker digestion and combats the uncomfortable effects of overeating.
Treats gas, gastritis, and acidity
These symptoms commonly stem from deeper issues like constipation and overeating. Ajwain helps to digest food faster so it does not sit in the intestine. This prevents issues such as gas and acidity.
Cures and treats indigestion
It treats stomach pain caused due to indigestion. It has mild alcoholic properties that treat pain in the stomach.
Treats colic problems in babies effectively
Ajwain water is given to babies who are suffering from colic problems like stomach pain and constipation. This is because it naturally balances stomach juices and soothes the stomach lining in babies.
Treats flatulence
It has anti-hyper acidity properties which make it a perfect remedy for gas and flatulence. It also helps regulate bowel movements and remove constipation.
Removes phlegm and is good for cough and cold
Uses of Ajwain
Ajwain is quite versatile and can be used for varied health purposes.
Digestive Stimulant
Ajwain is known to cure all kinds of digestion problems from indigestion, stomachache and flatulence. It also helps in enhancing appetite in people facing loss of appetite issues.
Anti-oxidants
Ajwain is rich in antioxidants that helps in removing harmful free radicals from the body and boosts the immune system.
Analgesic
Ajwain has potent pain-relieving properties. You can get instant relief from toothache by simply inhaling fumes of burning carom seeds.
Fungicide and germicide
Thymol, an element found in Ajwain seeds can treat infections and cuts. Just crush and apply Ajwain seeds on the injured parts of the skin.
Mosquito Repellent
Mix mustard oil with Ajwain and apply the mixture on cardboard pieces. Place these cardboard pieces in various corners of your room to ward off mosquitoes.
How to Use Ajwain to treat constipation
- Mix Ajwain seed powder, dried ginger powder and black salt and consume the mixture for instant relief
- Add Ajwain to lukewarm water and add salt to combat acidity
- Mix Ajwain and fennel seeds and boil in water. Drink the liquid to remove constipation immediately.
Q. Can it be consumed before or after meals?
Ajwain is considered as a digestive stimulant and also serves in reducing acidity. It is most beneficial to consume ajwain post meals as it helps to combat various digestive problems.
Q. Can Ajwain be taken on an empty stomach?
Ajwain water can be taken on an empty stomach to lose weight. Taking ajwain at varied times depends on the malady for which it is being used.
Q. Can Ajwain be consumed with water?
Yes, Ajwain can be consumed with water.
Ajwain Dosage for Constipation
Safe Dosage
If Ajwain is used on a daily basis, it is advisable to drink a decoction after boiling Ajwain in water. You can consume about 50 ml of the liquid after storing it at room temperature. Also, in raw form, a pinch of Ajwain can suffice as a home remedy for proper digestion post heavy meals.
Side Effects of Ajwain
Ajwain, when consumed in excess quantities, can prove to be harmful and display the following side effects.
Acidity: Consuming excess amounts of Ajwain can lead to gas production in the digestive tract that can lead to acidity, heartburn and even stomach ulcers.
Constipation: Though Ajwain water is used to treat constipation, but it can only alleviate constipation in people having normal stool consistency. In case of dry and hard stools, Ajwain must be avoided as it can result in more dry and hard stools.
Photo- Sensitivity: If consumption of Ajwain in excess dosages is done over prolonged periods, it can lead to photo sensitivity wherein the body reacts differently when exposed to sunlight.
Not Recommended in Pregnancy: Consuming Ajwain should be avoided by pregnant women as it tends to increase the body heat.
Heart Disease: Consuming high amounts of Ajwain can cause palpitation by increasing the heart rate. It can also lead to increase in blood pressure.
Liver Problems: People suffering from liver problems and issues such as diverticulitis should abstain from consuming Ajwain.
Harmful Interactions of Ajwain
Ajwain can interact with Hepatotoxic drugs, photosensitizing drugs and Anticoagulant/Antiplatelet drugs.
Precautions and Warnings of Ajwain
Q. Can Ajwain be consumed before driving?
Yes, Ajwain can very well be consumed before driving.
Q. Can Ajwain be consumed with alcohol?
Ajwain is mostly taken along with water. It should not be consumed with alcohol.
Q. Can Ajwain be addictive?
Ajwain is not addictive and can be used in limited amounts on a daily basis.
Q. Can Ajwain make you drowsy?
Ajwain does not contain sedating ingredients and will not make you drowsy upon consumption.
Q. Can you overdose on Ajwain?
It is harmful to overdose on Ajwain as it can lead to a number of side effects as explained in brief in the above sections of this blog.
Important Questions Asked About Ajwain
1. What is it made of?
Ajwain or carom seeds is an annual herb that belongs to the Apiaceae family. The leaves and fruit resembling a seed can be consumed by humans.
2. What are Ajwain’s storage requirements?
Ajwain or Ajwain powder can be stored in an airtight container.
3. How long do I need to use Ajwain till I see improvement in my condition?
The time period of usage of Ajwain may differ for varied maladies. However, Ajwain can offer almost immediate relief in digestive issues.
4. How many times a day do I need to use Ajwain?
You can consult the dosages section for using Ajwain on a daily basis for treating constipation.
5. Does it have any effect on breast feeding?
Ajwain is known to enhance breast milk production in lactating mothers.
6. Is it safe for kids?
Ajwain water is used to treat colic in kids and hence it is safe to be consumed in prescribed amounts by kids.
7. Does it have any effect on pregnancy?
Consuming Ajwain should be avoided by pregnant women as it tends to increase body heat.
8. Does it contain sugar?
No, Ajwain does not contain any sugar.
9. How does Ajwain help in digestion?
Ajwain is known to cure all kinds of digestion problems from indigestion, stomachache and flatulence. It also helps in enhancing appetite in people facing loss of appetite issues.
10. What are the side effects of ajwain?
There can be a number of side effects if Ajwain is consumed in excess amounts. Refer to the blog above for more information.
11. When should I drink Ajwain water?
Drink Ajwain water when faced with digestive issues such as constipation, stomach pain, flatulence, acidity etc.
12. How to take Ajwain for constipation
- Mix Ajwain seed powder, dried ginger powder and black salt and consume the mixture for instant relief
- Add ajwain to lukewarm water and add salt to combat acidity
- Mix ajwain and fennel seeds and boil in water. Drink the liquid to remove constipation immediately.
13. What are some home remedies for constipation?
Carom seeds or ajwain is a condiment that is used in many cuisines globally to enhance the flavour of food. But these humble tiny seeds serve more purposes than just taste enhancement. They are linked to numerous health benefits with research conducted over the years. One of the many health benefits of carom seeds is to help relieve constipation. Other condiments that can rid you of gastrointestinal problems like bloating, flatulence, burps, gas buildup, constipation, etc, are cumin, flax seeds, ginger juice, chia seeds, isabgol and other food items rich in dietary fibre.
Buyers Guide – Price and Where to Buy Carom Seeds (Ajwain)
The Herbs N Spices Liferr Ajwain / Celery Seeds 250 Gm(250 g)
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Best Price
Rs 464
Popular Brands that sell Ajwain
- Mother’s Choice
- Max Health
- Natureland Organics
Research on Ajwain
Ajwain has demonstrated anti microbial activity. This efficacy of Ajwain can lead to novel drug discovery. This has been shown in a study titled “Anti microbial potential of Ajwain (Trachyspermum copticum): An Immense Medical Spice” that was published in Journal OF Pharmacy Research and available online at http://jprsolutions.info/
