Homers Herbs

What can we help you with?
< All Topics
Print

Caraway (Carum carvi)

Botanical Information

  • Family: Apiaceae
  • Common Names: Caraway, Meridian Fennel, Persian Cumin
  • Parts Used: Seeds, leaves, roots

Description

Carum carvi is a biennial herb native to Europe, North Africa, and Western Asia. It has been widely cultivated for its aromatic seeds, which have been used in both culinary and medicinal traditions for centuries. Caraway is particularly valued for its digestive, carminative, and antispasmodic properties.

Historical and Traditional Uses

  • Used in traditional European herbalism to relieve bloating, gas, and indigestion.
  • Employed in Ayurvedic and Unani medicine for respiratory conditions and digestive support.
  • Historically used to increase lactation in nursing mothers.

Constituents

  • Essential oils (carvone, limonene)
  • Flavonoids
  • Tannins
  • Alkaloids
  • Fiber and minerals

Actions

  • Carminative (relieves gas)
  • Digestive tonic
  • Antispasmodic
  • Expectorant
  • Antimicrobial
  • Galactagogue (supports lactation)

Medicinal Uses

1. Digestive Support:
Caraway is commonly used to relieve bloating, flatulence, and indigestion. It stimulates digestion and reduces discomfort associated with heavy meals.

2. Antispasmodic and Gut Health:
Caraway’s muscle-relaxing properties help alleviate stomach cramps, colic, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

3. Respiratory Health:
Traditionally used to clear mucus and ease coughing, making it beneficial for bronchitis and colds.

4. Lactation Support:
Caraway has been used to enhance milk production in nursing mothers while also reducing infant colic when passed through breast milk.

5. Antimicrobial and Immune Support:
The essential oil content has antimicrobial properties that help fight infections and promote gut health.

Preparation and Dosage

Infusion (Tea):

  • 1 tsp of crushed seeds per cup of boiling water. Steep for 10-15 minutes and drink up to 3 times daily.

Tincture:

  • 2-5 ml of tincture taken up to 3 times daily.

Poultice or Wash:

  • Strong infusion applied externally for digestive discomfort or mild skin infections.

Culinary Use:

  • Seeds can be added to bread, soups, or herbal mixtures to aid digestion.

Precautions and Contraindications

  • Pregnancy and Lactation: Generally safe in food amounts; medicinal use should be moderated during pregnancy.
  • Gastroesophageal Reflux Disease (GERD): May worsen symptoms in individuals prone to acid reflux.
  • Essential Oil Use: Highly concentrated oil should be used with caution, as it can cause irritation in high doses.

Energetics (Traditional Medicine Perspectives)

  • Traditional European Herbalism: Warming and stimulating; supports digestion and circulation.
  • Ayurveda: Balances Vata and Kapha, but may increase Pitta in excess.

Combinations

  • For Digestive Health: Combine with fennel and ginger.
  • For Respiratory Support: Combine with thyme and licorice root.
  • For Lactation Support: Combine with fenugreek and anise.

Harvesting and Storage

  • Harvesting: Seeds are collected when fully mature and dried. Leaves and roots can be used fresh or dried.
  • Drying: Air dry in a shaded, well-ventilated area.
  • Storage: Store dried seeds in an airtight container away from light and moisture.

Modern Research

Studies confirm Carum carvi’s digestive-enhancing, antimicrobial, and antispasmodic properties, reinforcing its traditional use in herbal medicine.

Caraway remains a valuable herb in traditional and modern herbal medicine, particularly for digestion, respiratory health, and lactation support.