Eating Ajwain During Pregnancy: Reasons & Side Effects

Ajwain (carom seeds), also known as ‘bishop’s weed’ or ‘thymol seeds’ has its place in the same family as dill, anise, and fennel. Ajwain is a regularly used spice in preparing most Indian dishes because of its flavouring and curative properties. Ajwain seeds, when eaten raw, may taste bitter or spicy. Therefore, they are usually used in tadkas.

Video: Is It Safe to Eat Ajwain (Carom Seeds) During Pregnancy?

Ajwain is known for its medicinal properties. Eating ajwain is rich in antioxidants, minerals and fibre, and helps ease gas and other digestive issues. Eating ajwain also increases appetite by enhancing digestion. Ajwain is also beneficial for properly functioning the kidneys and the respiratory system. Thus, pregnant women can also benefit from eating ajwain during pregnancy.

Is It Safe to Eat Ajwain When Pregnant?

Is ajwain good in pregnancy? Eating ajwain in the right quantity during pregnancy is usually considered safe. However, care should be taken to eat it in moderation. If you cannot eat ajwain seeds in their raw form, you can soak them in water and consume the ajwain water.

Reasons to Eat Carom Seeds During Pregnancy

Eating ajwain during pregnancy can prove useful in the following ways:

1. Speeds Digestion

Many pregnant women experience bloating, flatulence, acidity, and indigestion owing to the growing uterus which can slacken the digestive process. Ajwain contains thymol which can speed up digestion, improve the gut’s overall health, and provide relief from stomach disorders.

2. Relief From Constipation

Pregnancy can affect a woman’s bowel movements, leading to constipation. Eating ajwain during pregnancy can speed up the digestion process and provide relief from constipation.

3. Relief From Chest Congestion

Eating ajwain during pregnancy can cure a cold and cough and eliminate phlegm.

4. Lowers Cholesterol

Studies have been conducted to show that ajwain also helps reduce bad cholesterol and triglyceride levels, and increasing the levels of good cholesterol (HDL).

Ajwain seeds also have incredible anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties, and their active compounds help fight against the growth of bacteria such as salmonella and E.coli, which are primarily responsible for food poisoning. Aside from that, ajwain is also beneficial for people with inflammation problems.

5. Strong Uterine Wall

Unexpectedly, ajwain can assist us in developing the healthy uterus that is required for pregnancy.

6. Food Poisoning Relief

The anti-bacterial qualities of ajwain aid in the battle against bacteria and other germs that cause food poisoning.

7. Enhances Dental Health

Expectant mothers’ oral health is also impacted by pregnancy. Take a handful of ajwain, salt it, and let it boil to eliminate bad oral health. Please turn off the burner once the water reaches a rolling boil and let it cool until it reaches room temperature. Gargle with ajwain and salt three to four times daily to improve dental health.

8. Controls Blood Pressure

Ajwain’s antihypertensive qualities aid in keeping blood pressure at healthy levels. One of the major pregnancy risk factors is uncontrolled blood pressure.

9. Best When Consumed in the Last Trimester

Best when consumed in the third trimester. Ajwain’s use during this time may be beneficial in the following ways.

• Improves digestion
• Increases hunger
• Decreases bloating
• Decreases acidity

Are There Any Side-Effects of Ajwain Consumption?

Consuming ajwain in the right amount during pregnancy is sensible to extract the full benefits. However, eating it in excessive quantities can trigger certain side effects. Consuming ajwain in excess during pregnancy can intensify heat in the body, which may negatively impact the pregnancy. Eating ajwain in larger quantities when pregnant may also cause dizziness and increase nausea.

Including Ajwain in Your Pregnancy Diet

You can directly include ajwain in the pregnancy diet as seeds, in powdered form, or the form of ajwain water. Most pregnant women may prefer drinking ajwain water during pregnancy as it is easier to consume. The use of ajwain during pregnancy in the third trimester is also very healthy.

Can You Drink Ajwain Tea and Water During Pregnancy?

You can drink it while pregnant if you don’t make your ajwain tea too strong. Ajwain seeds can be simply roasted, ground into powder, and kept in an airtight container. Add half to a teaspoon of this powder to boiling water to brew tea. Turn off the stove once it has boiled, then sift the liquid into a cup.Your ajwain tea is ready!

During pregnancy, it is important to consume ajwain in the right quantities. However, in case of any lingering doubts, it is always wise to consult your doctor before including ajwain in your diet.

Resources and References: Healthline

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