Is Ajwain Seed Good For Gastritis?

Ajwain seeds are not common in American cuisine, but they are ubiquitous in many legume-based curries of India. These tiny seeds from the plant Trachyspermum ammi, also called Bishop’s weed, ajowan and carom, provide a peppery-hot taste with subtle oregano or thyme undertones. The system of traditional medicine native to India, known as Ayurvedic medicine, uses ajwain as a treatment to enhance digestion and to cure many stomach woes, including gastritis.

Gastritis

Gastritis is simply an inflammation of the lining of the stomach usually caused by overuse of certain pain medications – including aspirin and ibuprofen – alcohol overdose or a bacterial infection. Stress, viral infections and autoimmune disorders can also cause gastritis. Symptoms include poor appetite, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain. In most cases, gastritis is resolved with time and antacids; but the condition may become chronic in people with pernicious anemia or weak immune systems.

Traditional Uses

In India, ajwain seed is offered after a meal, sometimes along with fennel or celery seeds, to boost digestion. It is also added to many curries to aid the digestion of aggressive spices and peppers, notes Raghavan Iyer, author of “660 Curries.” Ajwain is said to help with stomach aches, fever and the effects of overeating, while strengthening the spleen and liver. Ayurvedic practitioners also use ajwain to treat diarrhea.

Evidence

Although ajwain has been used for hundreds of years as a traditional digestive treatment, little scientific evidence of its benefit exists. A study in “Alternative Medicine Review,” published in December 2009, did find that the essential oils from ajwain seeds show promise in treating intestinal microbial imbalance, a possible cause of gastritis. The researchers from Southern Cross University noted that more research is needed to determine proper dosage and potential safety concerns.

At Home

Always check with your doctor before using alternative treatments for any illness. For gastritis, Ayurvedic medicine calls for 1 teaspoon of seeds mixed with a pinch of salt. Chew them slowly to release the natural oils. Use the extras the next time you make a robust curry with lentils or chickpeas. Add ajwain seed to the recipe to reduce gas and speed digestion. Use 1 teaspoon per 2 cups of legumes.