Adding Ajwain to Your Daily Routine? Here’s What to Expect

Ajwain, also known as carom seeds, has been a staple in Indian kitchens and Ayurvedic medicine for centuries. But recently, health enthusiasts worldwide are rediscovering this tiny powerhouse spice.

If you’re thinking about adding ajwain to your daily routine, you’re probably wondering: What will actually happen to my body? Is it safe? How should I take it?

This guide covers everything you need to know – from the science-backed benefits to the right dosage and potential side effects.

What Is Ajwain?

Ajwain (Trachyspermum ammi), commonly called carom seeds or bishop’s weed, is a small, oval-shaped seed with a strong, pungent aroma. It tastes similar to thyme but with a sharper, more bitter edge.

Nutritional Profile of Ajwain

Nutrient	Amount per 100g
Protein	15-17g
Fiber	11.9g
Calcium	660mg
Iron	16.2mg
Phosphorus	280mg
Thymol content	35-60%

The star compound in ajwain is thymol, which accounts for most of its medicinal properties. Thymol has proven antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-inflammatory effects.

What Happens When You Add Ajwain to Your Daily Routine?

Week 1-2: Initial Changes

When you first start consuming ajwain daily, here’s what you can expect:

Days 1-3:

• Improved digestion after meals
• Reduced bloating and gas
• A warming sensation in your stomach

Days 4-7:

• More regular bowel movements
• Less post-meal heaviness
• Possible increase in appetite

Week 2:

• Noticeable reduction in acidity
• Better metabolism
• Improved overall gut comfort

Week 3-4: Sustained Benefits

As your body adjusts to regular ajwain consumption:

• Metabolism boost: Many people report feeling more energetic
• Reduced water retention: Less puffiness, especially in the morning
• Better respiratory health: Clearer airways, especially during seasonal changes
• Weight management support: Some studies suggest a 2-3 kg reduction over a month when combined with diet and exercise

Long-Term Benefits (1-3 Months)

With consistent daily use:

• Strengthened immune system
• Better blood pressure management
• Reduced joint pain and inflammation
• Healthier skin due to detoxification
• Improved cholesterol levels

10 Science-Backed Benefits of Daily Ajwain Consumption

1. Supercharges Your Digestion

Ajwain is arguably the best natural remedy for digestive issues. The thymol in carom seeds stimulates the release of gastric juices, which improves food breakdown and nutrient absorption.

What the research says: Studies show that ajwain activates digestive enzymes in the gut, making it effective against indigestion, bloating, and stomach pain.

How it helps:

• Relieves gas and flatulence within 15-20 minutes
• Reduces acidity and heartburn
• Eases stomach cramps
• Treats constipation naturally

2. Supports Weight Loss

Drinking ajwain water on an empty stomach has become a popular weight loss hack—and for good reason.

How ajwain aids weight loss:

• Boosts metabolic rate
• Reduces water retention
• Curbs appetite and cravings
• Helps flush out toxins
• Improves fat breakdown

Real-world results: Many people report losing 4-5 kg over a month when combining ajwain water with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

3. Clears Respiratory Congestion

Seasonal changes often bring coughs, colds, and blocked noses. Ajwain acts as a natural expectorant—it loosens mucus so you can expel it more easily.

Best way to use for respiratory issues:

• Add ajwain seeds to boiling water and inhale the steam
• Drink warm ajwain tea with honey
• Apply ajwain paste on the chest (diluted with oil)

4. Lowers Blood Pressure Naturally

The thymol in ajwain has calcium-channel-blocking effects, similar to common blood pressure medications.

How it works: Thymol helps dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow and reducing arterial pressure.

Note: While animal studies show promising results, consult your doctor before using ajwain as a blood pressure remedy, especially if you’re on medication.

5. Fights Bacteria and Infections

Ajwain has powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties. Test-tube studies show it’s effective against:

• E. coli
• Salmonella
• Candida albicans (fungal infections)
• Multi-drug resistant bacteria

This makes ajwain excellent for gut health and preventing food-borne illnesses.

6. Reduces Pain and Inflammation

Ajwain’s anti-inflammatory properties make it useful for:

• Arthritis pain
• Muscle aches
• Menstrual cramps
• Toothaches
• Earaches (using ajwain oil)

Traditional remedy: Crush ajwain seeds into a paste and apply to painful joints for relief.

7. Boosts Immunity

Regular ajwain consumption strengthens your immune system thanks to:

• Antioxidants that fight free radicals
• Thymol and carvacrol with antimicrobial properties
• Anti-inflammatory effects that reduce chronic inflammation

Even small daily amounts can help your body fight seasonal infections.

8. Regulates Cholesterol Levels

Animal studies suggest that ajwain may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides while maintaining HDL (good) cholesterol levels.

9. Improves Skin Health

Ajwain’s detoxifying and antibacterial properties benefit your skin by:

• Reducing acne and pimples
• Fighting skin infections
• Improving complexion through internal detox
• Reducing inflammation-related skin issues

10. Supports Breastfeeding Mothers

Traditionally, ajwain has been used to:

• Improve lactation
• Aid post-pregnancy digestion
• Help with uterine recovery after childbirth

Important: While traditionally used, consult your doctor before using ajwain during breastfeeding.

How to Add Ajwain to Your Daily Routine: 7 Easy Methods

Method 1: Ajwain Water (Most Popular)

Preparation:

1. Soak 1 teaspoon of ajwain seeds in a glass of water overnight
2. Strain in the morning
3. Drink on an empty stomach

Best for: Weight loss, digestion, detox

Duration: Continue for 15-20 days for best results

Method 2: Warm Ajwain Tea

Preparation:

1. Boil 1 cup of water
2. Add 1 teaspoon of ajwain seeds
3. Let it simmer for 5 minutes
4. Strain and add honey if desired

Best for: Cold, cough, respiratory issues

Method 3: Chewing Raw Ajwain

How to do it:

• Chew 1/2 teaspoon of ajwain seeds after meals
• Follow with warm water

Best for: Immediate relief from gas and bloating

Method 4: Ajwain with Jaggery

Preparation:

1. Mix 1 teaspoon ajwain powder with 1 teaspoon jaggery
2. Consume after meals

Best for: Menstrual cramps, post-meal digestion

Method 5: Tempered Ajwain in Cooking

How to use:

1. Heat oil or ghee in a pan
2. Add 1/2 teaspoon ajwain seeds
3. Let them splutter for 10 seconds
4. Add to dals, curries, vegetables, or soups

Best for: Daily consumption without extra effort

Method 6: Ajwain and Lemon Water

Preparation:

1. Soak 1 teaspoon ajwain in warm water for 30 minutes
2. Strain and add juice of half a lemon
3. Drink in the morning

Best for: Weight loss, immunity boost, detox

Method 7: Ajwain Steam Inhalation

Preparation:

1. Boil water in a pot
2. Add 1 tablespoon ajwain seeds
3. Cover your head with a towel
4. Inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes

Best for: Nasal congestion, sinus issues, cold relief

Ajwain Dosage: How Much Is Safe?

Recommended Daily Dosage

Form	Daily Amount
Raw seeds	1-2 teaspoons (5-10g)
Powdered ajwain	3-6 grams
Ajwain water	1 glass (200-250ml)
Dried extract	Up to 125mg
Tincture/liquid extract	Up to 6ml

Important Dosage Guidelines

1. Start small: Begin with 1/2 teaspoon and gradually increase
2. Don’t exceed 2 teaspoons daily: More isn’t better with ajwain
3. Best time: Morning on empty stomach, or after meals
4. Consistency matters: Regular small doses are better than occasional large amounts

Side Effects and Precautions

While ajwain is generally safe, excessive consumption can cause issues:

Possible Side Effects

• Acidity and heartburn (especially on empty stomach in sensitive individuals)
• Nausea and dizziness (from too much thymol)
• Skin sensitivity (increased sun sensitivity with high doses)
• Mouth ulcers (if you have existing ulcers)
• Heavier menstrual bleeding in some women

Who Should Avoid Ajwain?

Group	Reason
Pregnant women	May cause uterine contractions and risk miscarriage
People with peptic ulcers	Can aggravate stomach ulcers
Those on blood thinners	May interfere with blood clotting
Pre-surgery patients	Stop 2 weeks before any surgery
People with liver conditions	High thymol may stress the liver

Drug Interactions

Consult your doctor if you’re taking:

• Blood pressure medications
• Blood thinning medications
• Diabetes medications
• Any liver-related medications

Ajwain vs Other Digestive Spices

Spice	Best For	Taste	Potency
Ajwain	Gas, bloating, weight loss	Sharp, thyme-like	High
Fennel (Saunf)	Bloating, fresh breath	Sweet, licorice-like	Mild
Cumin (Jeera)	Overall digestion	Earthy, warm	Medium
Ginger (Adrak)	Nausea, cold	Spicy, pungent	High

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drink ajwain water every day?

Yes, you can drink ajwain water daily for 15-20 days continuously. After that, take a week’s break before resuming. This prevents your body from becoming too accustomed to it.

What is the best time to consume ajwain?

The best time is early morning on an empty stomach for maximum benefits. You can also take it after meals to aid digestion.

Does ajwain reduce belly fat?

Ajwain water can support belly fat reduction by boosting metabolism, reducing water retention, and improving digestion. However, it works best when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise.

Can I give ajwain to children?

Ajwain can be given to children in very small amounts (a pinch) mixed with honey or jaggery for colic and digestive issues. Always consult a pediatrician first.

Is ajwain good for PCOS?

Ajwain may help with PCOS symptoms by improving metabolism and reducing bloating. However, consult your gynecologist before making it a regular part of your routine.

Can ajwain cause acidity?

In some people, especially those with sensitive stomachs, ajwain on an empty stomach can cause acidity. If this happens, try consuming it after meals instead.

How long does it take to see results from ajwain water?

Most people notice digestive improvements within 3-5 days. For weight loss and other benefits, consistent use for 3-4 weeks shows noticeable results.

Can I eat ajwain at night?

Yes, but it’s best consumed in the morning or after meals. Eating ajwain at night may increase stomach heat in some people.

The Bottom Line

Adding ajwain to your daily routine can offer significant health benefits—from better digestion and weight management to improved immunity and respiratory health.

Key takeaways:

• Start with 1/2 to 1 teaspoon daily
• Ajwain water on an empty stomach is the most effective method
• Continue for 15-20 days for noticeable results
• Avoid if pregnant, have ulcers, or are on blood thinners
• Combine with a healthy lifestyle for best results

This humble kitchen spice packs a powerful punch. Give it 2-3 weeks of consistent use, and you’ll likely notice the difference in how you feel.