| Some perfumes use small amounts of cumin, which is native to Egypt and the Mediterranean. The seed is commonly used in Mexican and East Indian foods, and is traditionally used in the ancient Ayurvedic medicine of East India.
Family: Apiaceae (Umbelliferae)
Extraction: Distilled from the seed. The odor is biting, warm, spicy and green.
Medicinal Action: Cumin relieves indigestion and related headaches, liver complaints, obesity, poor circulation and fluid accumulation. It is slightly sedative.
Emotional Attribute: The fragrance counteracts emotional and physical exhaustion.
Considerations: Use cumin carefully, because it can irritate skin and is slightly photosensitizing.
| 
Tell A Friend
Printer friendly version 
Kathi Keville has studied herbs since 1969. Her attraction to fragrant plants led to an involvement in aromatherapy. Her other books include Herbs for Health and Healing; The Illustrated Encyclopedia of 
