I have been taking in powder jeera (cumin) daily some time as I was told it aids in digestion, metabolism and well being. It also gives food items a homely touch particularly the curries and the soups. Nevertheless, I have observed a few unpleasant unforeseen side effects in the process.
Initially I believed that I was merely imagining that it was happening, however, with time, I noticed that cumin powder was having both positive and unexpected effect on me.
1. A bit too much warmth
According to the warming effect, cumin is pleasant and generally so. However, when I took too much of it each day I felt unnaturally hot. I used to sit at my desk and easily felt that I was hot, not an illness fever, just a constant inner warmth. This is worth keeping an eye on, in case you are already disposed to being hot.
2. My hat began to shine... but too much of it
I had heard that cumin is beneficial in skin problems like acne due to its antioxidants. At first my skin cleared up, but after a couple of weeks I started to see and feel excess shine, an oiliness, especially in the afternoon. I can not tell whether it was directly the cumin or it was my body, but it did not feel my skin to be oily as normal.
3. Gesticular advantages (with a conditioning)
My digestion became better- less bloating and post meal pains. The negative thing is that cumin is a weak diuretic. Two days later, I started attending the bathroom regularly. It is not a big issue, but you may want to mention it in case you are a regular user of it.
4. Mood changes?
Several weeks later, having introduced cumin into my routine, I became more relaxed, almost too relaxed. I was not as motivated or active as I usually am. I also learned that cumin is mildly sedative hence that could be the cause of the change. I was not always tired but only felt colder.
5. Unintentional loss of weight (or was it?)
Cumin is said to enhance metabolism and thus I expected it to help me lose a few pounds and it did partially. Nonetheless, the loss of my weight became even faster than I expected as though my body was always on fire. I was not weak, and I simply lost my appetite and had to work extra to guarantee that I took the right amount of calories.
6. A possible hypertrophic reaction rule out
Surprisingly, I got some mild rash on my mouth and occasionally, my neck after a few weeks of constant use. It was not that bad, but it made me reduce the quantity taken every day. I cannot tell whether it was the cumin itself or a combination with other spices but it was a surprise reaction.
When you consider taking jeera powder on a daily basis, you should listen to the way the body responds. Although there are numerous advantages, it should be moderated. I am now less consistent with it, and have adjusted my routine to my best style.