Herbs & Spices

Cumin (Ground)

97Health
Score

A+

Ground cumin is a warm, earthy seed powder exceptionally high in iron and rich in calcium, manganese, and aldehyde antioxidants supporting digestion and metabolism.

Track Cumin (Ground) in Formulate — free

Log it, see it roll into your daily nutrient coverage, and build a scored stack.

Open app →

Why Cumin (Ground) scores 97

Nutrient density35

Protein quality11

Fiber content10

Healthy fats9

Bioactive compounds14

Glycemic impact10

Top nutrients

Iron368.7Manganese144.9Copper96.3Magnesium87.1Calcium71.6

Nutrition

per_100g

375

Calories

17.8g

Protein

44.2g

Carbs

22.3g

Fat

10.5g

Fiber

Health benefits

Supports digestion and reduces bloating

moderate evidence

Cuminaldehyde stimulates secretion of pancreatic enzymes and bile, accelerating digestion and easing gas and indigestion

Provides highly bioavailable plant iron

strong evidence

Exceptional iron density (66mg/100g) contributes meaningful non-heme iron, supporting oxygen transport especially when paired with vitamin C

Delivers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory protection

moderate evidence

Cuminaldehyde, thymol, and flavonoids scavenge free radicals and dampen inflammatory signaling

May improve lipid profile and support weight management

emerging evidence

Trials show cumin powder modestly lowers total cholesterol, triglycerides, and body weight, possibly via enhanced fat metabolism

Pairs well with

·Pair with lentils and beans because cumin's iron complements legume meals and its compounds reduce digestive gas
·Combine with citrus or tomatoes because vitamin C sharply increases absorption of cumin's non-heme iron
·Bloom in hot oil with onions because cuminaldehyde and fat-soluble terpenes release fully into the cooking fat

Practical tips

·Best timing: with meals
·Toast whole or ground cumin briefly in a dry pan to intensify cuminaldehyde aroma before adding to dishes
·Bloom in oil at the start of cooking to extract its fat-soluble flavor and aid mineral release
·Pair with a vitamin-C source to maximize uptake of its abundant iron
·Store airtight and dark; ground cumin loses its volatile punch within 6 months faster than whole seeds

Related foods