History of Cumin

Cumin in History

The history of cumin goes back over 5000 years when the ancient Egyptians used it as a spice in foods as well as in the mummification process. The Greeks and Romans used it as well and also applied it to medicinal uses. They also used it to make the complexion more pale. There are many references to this spice in the Bible¹.

Originally from Iran and the Mediterranean, cumin is a small seed that comes for the Cuminum cyminum Herb, a member of the parsley family. This seed has a distinct flavor and warm aroma, and is a major ingredient in chili powder as well as curry powder. It is associated mostly with Indian, Mexican and Vietnamese foods but the ancient Greeks kept a dish of it on the dinner table, a practice which continues today in Morocco.

Like many spices, cumin has a rich history and, in fact, according to the Bible, cumin had such a powerful medicinal value that it could be used as money! One of the common plants seen growing in Medieval monasteries, the health benefits of cumin is document by the Ancient Greek and Egyptians physicians.

In the Middle Ages, cumin was one of the most common spices. It also had significance as a spice of love and fidelity and people carried it to weddings and walked around in it with their pockets. It was reputed to keep lovers and chickens from wandering and married soldiers were sent off to battle with a nice fresh baked loaf of cumin bread.

Today, cumin is cultivated and grown in many countries including Malta, India, Sicily, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Mexico and China. It is actually quite easy to grow and adapts well to many climates. While use of this spice has declined since the height of it’s popularity in the Middle Ages, it is making a comeback, probably due to the renewed interest in ethnic dishes and spicy foods.

Cumin has a lot of components that are advantages to your health and some laboratory studies have shown it may even be able to play a role in helping to treat cancer. It can be used in many dishes and actually helps to draw out the sweetness of other foods. You will likely find cumin in chili and also in tacos and curries. Most Mexican, Cuban and Middle Eastern foods make use of this interesting spice.

This page was written by Lee Dobbins and edited by W.J. Rayment.