Parts Most Frequently Used: Seed (Ripe Fruit)

Flavors/Temps: Pungent, Acrid, Warming

Caution: Considered safe, unless taken in large doses.

Key Constituents: Fiber, Copper, Iron, Magnesium, Manganese, Phosphorus, Calcium, Zinc, Limonene, Carvone, Anethole, Protein

History/Folklore: Caraway has long been used worldwide to treat digestive issues, including bloating, gas, and mild stomach and intestinal cramps. They are known to increase appetite, promote milk flow in nursing mothers, relieve menstrual cramps, improve bladder control, relieve constipation, and kill bacteria. Caraway oil has been used in mouthwashes and added to skin rubs to help improve blood circulation.

Women use caraway oil to help start menstruation and relieve menstrual cramping.

There is growing evidence that suggests drinking a tea of chamomile, saffron, anise, fennel, licorice, cardamom, and caraway twice daily for 6 months may reduce the impact of allergic asthma, including aiding sleep and easing coughing.

Caraway is rich in minerals and compounds that support weight loss and relieve inflammation. Its ability to reduce inflammation makes it useful for treating IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), which is caused by chronic inflammation of the intestinal tract. A handful of small studies have shown that caraway oil helps relieve the symptoms of ulcers, inflammation, gas, cramping, diarrhea, and irritated digestive tissues by relaxing the smooth muscle tissues of the digestive tract. A study with mice revealed that caraway extract and essential oil reduced inflammation in colon tissue as effectively as common steroid-based drugs.

An in vitro study revealed that caraway oil blocked the growth of harmful gut bacteria while leaving beneficial bacteria that produce nutrients, reduce inflammation, and boost the immune system alone. Another study found that caraway extract helped fight H. pylori, a bacterium known for causing stomach ulcers and digestive inflammation.

In Chinese cuisine, caraway seeds are seldom used but may be added to dishes that can be difficult to digest, such as certain pork dishes. They are more commonly used in medicinal forms, especially in the Xinjiang region, which has strong Central Asian influences, in tablet form to treat vitiligo. In TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine), caraway is used for its digestive-supporting properties and ability to Move Qi, particularly Liver Qi, which, when stagnant, can cause digestive issues, irritability, and even constipation.

In Ayurvedic medicine, caraway seeds have been used for centuries to detoxify the body, stimulate digestion, and increase circulation. They are said to alkalize the body, decreasing pain, settling the stomach, and soothing cramps.

The first use of the name caraway is thought to date back to 1440 in England, where it is said to be of Arabic origin. They are a staple in many Middle Eastern dishes. Finland produces about 28% of the global production.

Caraway seeds are commonly found in rye bread, sauerkraut, curry dishes, and various meat dishes, stews, pastries, tarts, jams, and cheeses. The seeds’ taste is considered to have a hint of anise, citrus, and herbal, and a slightly bitter, sweet flavor and scent. The first-year root is also considered edible and can be cooked in stews. The plant’s leaves can be used in salads, teas, and soups. The young leaves, known as microcaraway, are a specialty microgreen gaining attention in certain culinary circles for their milder, less pungent flavor than the seeds.

While more research is needed, initial animal studies suggest that caraway seed extract and oil may help to treat a variety of seizures.

In manufacturing, caraway oil is used to flavor certain medications as well as to flavor toothpaste, soap, and cosmetics.

Caraway is often used with other herbs such as peppermint, German chamomile, licorice, milk thistle, angelica, as well as other herbs, especially those that can aid digestion and ease cramping.

Legends say that caraway has the power to prevent the theft of any object that contains the seed. It is also reputed to keep lovers from losing interest in each other. In other words, caraway proffers the gift of retention.

In medieval Europe, caraway was considered a symbol of love and fidelity – couples would tuck it into bread to “to keep the love in.” It is also considered to provide protection and good fortune.