Botanical Overview
Carum carvi, commonly known as Caraway, belongs to the Apiaceae family. The parts used medicinally are primarily the fruit (commonly called seeds). It is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa and is cultivated widely for both culinary and medicinal use.
Energetics
The fruit is considered warming and drying with bitter, pungent, and sweet tastes. Its action is ascending in nature with a tonifying effect on qi.
Primary Actions
- Carminative
- Digestive
- Antispasmodic
- Expectorant
- Antimicrobial
Indications
Western
- Bloating
- Flatulence
- Indigestion
- Colic
- Cough
- Bronchitis
- Menstrual cramps
Syndromes
- Functional dyspepsia
- Gastrointestinal spasms
- Respiratory catarrh
TCM
No well-supported traditional Chinese medicine uses or syndromes documented.
Ayurveda
No well-supported uses or syndromes documented.
Unani
- Gastralgia
- Flatulence
- Amenorrhea
Syndromes
- Stomach weakness
- Cold stomach disorders
Constituents & Mechanisms
The primary phytochemical constituents include essential oils such as carvone and limonene, flavonoids, tannins, and phenolic acids, which contribute to its carminative and antimicrobial properties.
Dosage & Preparations
- Infusion: 1.5–3 g dried fruit 2-3 times daily
- Essential oil: 0.2-0.3 mL daily in divided doses
- Tincture: 1:5 in 40% ethanol, 2-5 mL 1-3 times daily
Safety & Contraindications
Caraway is generally considered safe when used in food amounts. Allergic reactions are possible in sensitive persons. Medicinal use during pregnancy is cautioned due to insufficient data; high doses should be avoided. It may interact with antidiabetic medications, warranting glucose monitoring.
Astrological Correspondences
No well-supported planetary or elemental rulers were identified for Carum carvi.
Selected References
- Carum carvi L., Fructus – Assessment Report, European Medicines Agency – HMPC, 2017
- Carum carvi (Caraway), Plants For A Future Database
- Pharmacological and therapeutic potential of Carum carvi, S. Singh et al., 2019, PubMed Central