Top News

A tasty spice costing just 27p per portion could deliver a host of remarkable health benefits. Studies have revealed that cumin seeds, a staple in numerous Asian and Mexican cuisines, may help shield the body against cancer while also reducing cholesterol levels.

Currently, 37g of cumin seeds are available at Tesco for £1, equating to approximately 27p for a 10g portion. Scientists believe many of its health-boosting properties stem from flavonoids, which act as antioxidants in the body.

These antioxidants help neutralise harmful particles called free radicals that damage cells. WebMD explains that this process means antioxidants can “help prevent diseases like cancer, heart disease, and high blood pressure."

Further to this, the seeds - which can also be used in cooking as a ground up spice - are a rich source of vitamin A, calcium, and iron. In fact, research published in the Frontiers in Oncology journal 2023 examined cumin extracts on bone cancer-affected cells, and scientists discovered the extracts assisted the cells in 'healing'.

They wrote in the study: “The primary chemical components of the extract are revealed by the study, and these help the malignant cells heal. The present study finds that there is scientific validity in using cumin seeds as a novel method of anticancer therapy after undergoing both intrinsic and extrinsic research.”

• 'My baby caught measles days before his MMR jab - he nearly died'

• Newborn baby dies from sepsis after doctors failed to wake pregnant mum for observations

Meanwhile, separate research has connected cumin consumption to reduced risks of liver, stomach, and bowel cancers, reports Bristol Live. WebMD explains: "Cancer develops when cells in the body start to multiply out of control.

"Tumours are collections of these abnormal cells. In several animal studies, scientists have found that cumin seeds may prevent the growth of different kinds of tumours, including those caused by liver, stomach, and colon cancers."

Nevertheless, experts recognise that further research is required to "determine if cumin can help prevent cancer in humans". Additional studies have linked cumin to lower cholesterol levels.

Elevated cholesterol represents a significant risk factor for numerous life-threatening conditions such as heart disease and stroke. This happens when excessive amounts of a fatty substance called cholesterol build up in your bloodstream.

Research published in the International Journal of Health Sciences, tested cumin consumption on a group of volunteers. During the trial, participants received three to five drops of cumin extract added to their meals three times daily for approximately 45 days.

Scientists observed a "significant" reduction in low-density lipoprotein, commonly referred to as "bad" cholesterol, after the study period. They concluded: "The results demonstrated that there was a significant decrease in the level of oxidised low-density lipoprotein after receiving cumin.”

In a separate study involving obese and overweight women, participants were split into two groups for three months. One group consumed 3g of cumin powder mixed with yoghurt twice daily, whilst the other group ate yoghurt alone.

The women who included cumin in their diet showed reduced cholesterol, triglyceride, and low-density lipoprotein levels, alongside elevated high-density lipoprotein cholesterol ("good" cholesterol).

Beyond these advantages, WebMD highlights that consuming cumin could:

• Have antibacterial properties
• Manage diabetes
• Help weight management
• Improve digestion.