9 Side Effects Of Cumin Seeds
Like everything else, cumin seeds have their own set of side effects. Here are a few of them:
1. Heartburn
Cumin seeds are known for their gas-relieving properties, but ironically they can also cause one of the most common digestive problems, heartburn! Cumin seeds facilitate the eviction of more gas into your gastrointestinal tract (1), (2).
2. Belching
The carminative effect of cumin seed may also cause excessive belching. Sometimes belching is referred to as a ructus or burping, which involves excess bloating and gas from the intestinal tract and stomach escaping through the mouth. Belching has sometimes a bad odor and characteristic sound. Though not a problem in the real sense of it, belching can definitely lead to embarrassment (1), (2)!
3. Liver Damage
The oil present in cumin seed is highly volatile and can cause liver and kidney damage if one consumes cumin seed in large amounts for a long period of time.
4. Abortifacient Effects
Cumin seeds may have an abortifacient effect on pregnant women. This means that consuming large amounts of cumin seeds can lead to a miscarriage or induce premature labor (1), (2), (3).
5. Narcotic Effects
Cumin seed has narcotic properties. Cumin seeds should be consumed with caution as they can become addictive. Other side effects of cumin seeds are mental clouding, drowsiness, and nausea.
6. Heavy Menstrual Cycle
Cumin seeds may lead to heavy bleeding during menstruation. If cumin seeds are consumed in large amounts, then you can blame your heavier than usual periods on them (3).
7. Low Blood Sugar Level
Consuming cumin seeds in large amounts can lower the blood sugar level in the body. This point is important to remember if you are heading for surgery in the near future. During surgery, it is essential to maintain the blood sugar level. So your doctor may advise you to stop eating cumin seeds at least 2 weeks before surgery as your blood sugar level needs to be controlled during and after surgery (4).
8. Not Good For Diabetics
Diabetes patients need to control their blood sugar levels. They should have normal blood sugar levels to remain healthy. Fluctuating blood sugar levels are a strict no-no for most diabetics. As mentioned before, cumin seeds may decrease your blood sugar level quickly and can cause low blood sugar levels in some individuals (4). So, people with diabetes should avoid consuming cumin seeds in excess.
9. Causes Allergy
Consumption of cumin seeds can also cause skin rashes and allergies. So people with skin allergies should consume cumin seeds in low amounts if they must (5), (6). Can we eat cumin seeds daily? Yes. Cumin seeds are considered safe for daily consumption, even in larger quantities. Is cumin poisonous? No. Cumin seeds are nontoxic. How much cumin can I take daily? The typical dose of 300 milligrams to 600 milligrams of cumin per day as a supplement is safe (7). Can I drink cumin water every day? Yes. It is completely safe to drink cumin water every day. Does cumin seeds cause constipation? No. Cumin seeds are natural laxatives and promote bowel movement.
