JIRAKA

Introduction:

Jiraka is a small annual flowering plant growing up to 1-1.5 feet in height. It has small alternate and compound leaves. Flowers are white and arranged in cluster of canopy. Fruits are green and turn brown after ripening. Jiraka is widely used in Indian kitchen as spice and in many Ayurvedic preparations.

Powder, Decoction and paste of cumin seed is used in ayurveda.

Uses:

1. Jeera powder/decoction is given with powder of black pepper and ginger to stimulate digestive fire, to treat flatulence, bloating, irritable bowel syndrome, diarrhea and colic. It is carminative, helps in absorption of nutrients.
2. Jeera powder with jaggary may be given during fever and to relieve burning sensation. Decoction of jeera powder may be applied to get relief from the fever blisters on lips after fever.
3. Soak Jeera seeds overnight, add cinnamon powder and drink in the morning to detoxify the body, for weight loss and to help in digestion.
4. Prepare a poultice and apply it externally to get relief from piles. Powder may be given internally also with buttermilk.
5. In gynecological disorders and after childbirth, cummin powder/decoction is given to detoxify the uterus and to treat leucorrhea. During lactation period powder is given with warm milk.
6. To get relief from cough and to remove phlegm, chew jeera seeds, keep it in your mouth for some time and swallow it thereafter.
7. To treat mouth ulcers, jeera powder, cardamom powder and purified alum powder may be added in warm water and gargle.
8. To get relief from acne, prepare a paste of cumin seeds and apply on affected part for some time and clean it with warm water.