Cumin
Profile
| Latin Name | Cuminum cyminum |
| Chinese Name | Not Known |
| Family | Apiaceae/Umbelliferae |
| Note | Middle |
| Aroma | <Strong> Spicy, sharp |
| Color | Pale Yellow |
| Parts Distilled | Seeds |
| Regions | North Africa, India, France, Morocco, Russia |
| Taste | Spicy |
| Nature | Slightly warming |
| Affinity | LR/SP/HT |
| Major Chemical Constituents | Aldehyde (cuminal) |
| Skin Type | Can irritate skin |
| Dosage | 3% dilution |
TCM Categories
Functions
- Regulate Liver overacting on the Spleen
- Tonify Spleen Qi
- Invigorate the Blood - improve circulation and promote menstruation
Indications
- Deficient Spleen Qi with poor digestion, weak limbs, flatulence, loose stools, abdominal distention, lethargy, obesity, edema, damp-Bi (CV-6, BL-20, BL-21, LR-13, SP-6, SP-3, ST-36)
- Deficient Heart Qi with fatigue, palpitations, low blood pressure, weak circulation (HT-9, CV-14, PC-7, HT-5, BL-14, BL-15)
Topical Applications
- Add with Clove to liniment for bone Bi obstruction.
Specific Protocols
Actions
- Stomachic (promoting the appetite or assisting digestion)
- Antiviral
- Cardiac stimulant
- Antispasmodic
Contraindications & Cautions
- Photosensitive
Notes
- For eating disorders of emotional origin
- To active an empty small intestine luo
From Class
- Cumin: Oil that resonates with Ren-4 Guanyuan; apply a drop on the point. (Yuen)
- Divergent channel oils: oakmoss, cumin, clove, terebinth (turpentine): Basic divergent blend; add ravensara or hyssop for superficial-deep-superficial (releasing). (Yuen)