Botanical name: Carum carvi
Botanical family: Umbelliferae
Note: Top
Part of plant used: Seeds
Origin: Caraway is is a very old spice which dates back to Roman times where they used the seeds in their bread making. It was also used in Egyptian times and most recently is very popular in the Western European countries of Germany and Austria where the herb is added to sausages, sauerkraut and bread. Caraway is also used in making the liqueur Kümmel.
Description: Sweet and peppery
Properties and Indications:
- Digestive stimulant, good for loss of appetite
- Helpful for indigestion and gastric spasms
- Eases flatulence and constipation
- Can sweeten breath
- Diuretic – can increase urine flow, flushing out toxins
- Galactogogue – insufficiency of milk in nursing mothers
- Toning for the liver
- Helpful for menstrual pains
- Good for the nervous system
- Diminishes vertigo
- Stimulates the circulation
- Expectorant – can aid asthma and bronchial problems
- Can ease laryngitis and other throat infections
- Good for oily skin conditions and acne
Contra-indications:
- Not to be used in pregnancy
- Can irritate sensitive skins
Blending:
Back to Aromatherapy Essential Oils
