Is there anything longer than the last few weeks of pregnancy? If you’re past your due date–or even close to it–you’re probably looking for anything to help labor start. You might hear of cumin tea to induce labor, but here’s what you should know.
Generally considered safe in moderation for both pregnant and breastfeeding women, there is no scientific evidence to indicate cumin tea can encourage or start labor.
Read on to find out more about cumin tea and actual evidence-based methods for inducing labor.
Table of Contents
What is cumin tea?
Although many people assume cumin is related to curcumin, they are actually quite different. Curcumin is a compound found in turmeric (which is in the ginger family) while cumin derives from the parsley family.
Cumin is a spice most commonly used in India and China, as well as parts of the Middle East and the Mediterranean.
It originates from a flowering plant native to the Middle East and India, is now grown in many areas around the world, and can be found at your local grocery store or online in both seed and powder forms.
Cumin tea is produced by steeping the cumin seeds and straining them before consuming.
The flavor of cumin tea is very distinctive and could be described as earthy, spicy, or even nutty.
In addition to flavoring cuisine and making tea, Cumin has also been used for centuries in the traditional medicine practices of many different cultures and has been studied for modern medical applications as well.
Some common medical uses for cumin include the treatment of respiratory conditions, infections, and digestive issues.
Cumin tea benefits
In general, cumin tea offers a plethora of health benefits that have made it a very popular tea in many parts of the world.
According to Healthline, cumin has anti-inflammatory, anti-carcinogenic, anti-septic, anti-bacterial properties and is high in antioxidants.
Cumin seeds, meanwhile, are high in protein, fiber, B vitamins, vitamin E, iron, magnesium and manganese.
Cumin tea is said to:
- Aid with liver detoxification
- Boost metabolism
- Balance hormones
- Increase brain health
- Aid digestion
- Calm nerves
- Relieve constipation
- Improve energy
- Treat iron deficiency
- Protect against cancer
- Lower cholesterol
- Relieve the symptoms of cold and flu
- Boost the immune system
- Increase breastmilk production (possibly due to providing high iron)
- Treats symptoms of colic in infants
Can I use cumin tea to induce labor?
Medical inductions can be expensive, time-consuming, painful, and even risky. In order to avoid any potential complications, many expecting parents turn to natural remedies to safely induce labor at home.
But does it work? No.
Only one natural method has scientific data to support its effectiveness and that’s nipple stimulation.
Other things like spicy food and teas are just old wives’ tales.
Is cumin tea safe to induce labor?
There is no known evidence that cumin can harm a developing baby, especially in the latter stages of pregnancy. Cumin is recognized as “generally safe” by the United States FDA.
In addition, there seems to be very little health risks for pregnant women. Overall, it seems that cumin tea is safe for consumption, but only drink if you like it.
However, it is generally suggested to consume cumin tea in moderation and adhere to no more than 2 cups per day.
When in doubt, be sure to talk it over with your doctor.
Is cumin tea safe during pregnancy?
As with other remedies that are rumored to jumpstart labor in pregnant women, it is important to know if cumin tea is safe during other stages of pregnancy.
It is always wise to discuss these things with your doctor or other healthcare providers, but in general cumin tea is considered to be likely safe in low amounts for pregnant and breastfeeding women.
Cumin tea contraindications
According to WebMD, there are a few contraindications for consuming cumin.
It is suggested that cumin could have an effect on blood sugar and can negatively interact with diabetes medications.
Therefore, pregnant women with gestational or other types of diabetes should probably abstain from consuming cumin tea. Due to this effect on blood sugar, it is also recommended that cumin not be consumed before or after surgery.
In addition, women with clotting disorders should avoid cumin since it may have an adverse effect on the speed of blood clotting.
Always speak with your doctor or other healthcare providers before taking cumin with any medications.
How to make cumin tea
Cumin tea can be an acquired taste. Its strong, spicy flavor is more suited to savory dishes than a nice warm cup of tea. For this reason, many moms prefer to add other ingredients such as cinnamon, sugar, honey, lemon, or vanilla.
As odd as it may sound, many cumin tea drinkers also swear by using a small cube of raw potato in their tea to help soak up the bitter flavor.
To prepare your cup of cumin tea:
- Add 1 tsp of pure cumin seeds (not powder) to a saucepan
- Heat on low heat for approximately 5 seconds
- Add 250 ml of filtered water
- Bring to a boil
- Reduce the heat and allow to simmer for approximately 5 minutes
- Cover and let cool for 5-10 minutes
- Strain into your cup or mug
- Add sweeteners to your taste
Evidence-based ways to induce labor
Unfortunately, the only scientifically supported way to encourage the spontaneous start of labor is by nipple stimulation.
Sex is often touted as a reliable method because semen contains prostaglandins. Prostaglandins cause the cervix to ripen, but unfortunately, the current evidence does not indicate that it’s in a high enough concentration to start labor.
Conclusion
Most women can tell you what they think triggered their labor–curb-walking, sex, a special meal, even packing their hospital go-bag. However, these are anecdotes.
It doesn’t hurt to try them but don’t make yourself miserable trying to implement them.
