Ajwain (Carom)

Ajwain, or carom, is an annual herb of the carrot family with finely divided feathery leaves, small white flowers in umbrella-shaped clusters and small, greyish-brown ridged fruits with a strong thyme-like aroma. It is widely grown in India, especially Rajasthan and Gujarat.

The fruit, commonly called the seed, is used. Ayurveda calls it Yavani and values it as a warming, pungent spice traditionally used for digestive and respiratory comfort. It is a familiar ingredient in Indian cooking and in herbal waters.