Pregnancy is indeed a very emotional journey for the expecting mothers. Amid all the hormonal changes that she goes through, one heavenly feeling keeps her strong – a connection with the unborn child. She battles this rollercoaster ride entirely for love for her child. Thankfully, one natural remedy is available that helps ease her pregnancy woes. Ajwain water during pregnancy provides much-needed comfort to an expecting mother. If she drinks Ajwain water during pregnancy, she can get many amazing benefits.
Before exploring the advantages of Ajwain water during pregnancy, let us first know about Ajwain and its nutritional benefits.
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What is Ajwain and Its Nutrition?
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Arum copticum L., commonly known as Ajwain, is found in different parts of the world, such as Iran and parts of India, particularly in Gujarat and Rajasthan.
For ages, Ajwain has been known for its medicinal benefits for various ailments such as bloating, weariness, diarrhea, abdominal tumors, abdominal pain, respiratory problems, and loss of appetite.
Ajwain has antifungal, antioxidant, antibacterial, antiparasitic, and hypolipidemic properties.
Nutrition of Ajwain
The remarkable plant of Ajwain contains many essential elements such as carbohydrates, glucosides, saponins, and phenolic compounds like carvacol.
It also contains valuable oils like thymol, para cymene, and beta-pinene, as well as important nutrients like proteins, fats, and fiber.
Ajwain is also a source of essential minerals such as calcium, phosphorous, iron, and nicotinic acid, also known as niacin.
Also Read – Vitamin B12 Rich Dry Fruits: Nature’s Gift to You
Is It Safe to Drink Ajwain Water During Pregnancy?
Ajwain during pregnancy is safe only when consumed in moderation and as a part of a complete and balanced diet.
This herb has been used in many cultures, for ages, to address common pregnancy-related issues such as gas, bloating, constipation, acid reflux, etc.
However, certain guidelines must be followed when consuming Ajwain water during pregnancy.
Guidelines For Safe Consumption of Ajwain Water During Pregnancy
1.) Moderation
Remember, during pregnancy ajwain should be taken in moderation only.
Take Ajwain as a medicine only.
Consuming too much ajwain during pregnancy can be harmful and may lead to uterine contractions and miscarriage.
2.) Consult with your Gynaecologist
Before introducing Ajwain during pregnancy in any form, you must consult your gynecologist first.
They are best to give you personalized guidance based on your health.
3.) Quality and Preparation
Always use high-quality Ajwain seeds, from a reputed seller, which will be free from contamination.
Also, while preparing Ajwain water all necessary care and precautions must be followed.
The ajwain seeds must be boiled properly and sieved using a clean strainer to avoid any adverse reaction.
4.) Start Slowly
Pregnancy times are unlike the usual times and demand special care.
During pregnancy a female has to go through a lot of hormonal changes, hence, it is advised to start with a small quantity of ajwain water.
You must pay close attention to how your body reacts to the Ajwain water. Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any discomfort or adverse reactions.
5.) Stay Hydrated
Ajwain water should not be the primary and only source of staying hydrated during pregnancy.
An expecting mother should drink plenty of water and include lots of fruits and veggies to stay hydrated.
6.) Balanced Diet
Ajwain water does provide relief during pregnancy but you must follow the diet recommended by your nutritionist or doctor to maintain proper nutrition for yourself and your baby.
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Benefits of Ajwain Water During Pregnancy
Some of the benefits of Ajwain water during pregnancy are scientifically proven while some are proven traditionally in various cultures.
Let us look at these benefits one by one:
1.) Relieves from Gas and Bloating
Ajwain is very well known for giving digestion-related benefits.
Thymol and carvacrol compounds found in ajwain have carminative properties.
They relax the gastrointestinal tract’s smooth muscles, reducing gas, bloating, and discomfort.
Ajwain water during pregnancy relieves pregnant mothers from the common trouble of gas and bloating due to its carminative elements.
2.) Aids from Morning Sickness
Ajwain’s digestive and anti-nausea properties help in alleviating morning sickness.
The active elements in Ajwain seeds such as thymol and carvacrol have anti-nausea and anti-emetic (anti-vomiting) properties.
They reduce the feeling of vomiting, providing relief from morning sickness.
Abrupt hormonal changes during pregnancy slow down digestion, one of the reasons for vomiting.
Ajwain water during pregnancy stimulates digestive enzymes, leading to better digestion and reducing the possibility of vomiting due to undigested food.
It helps neutralize excess stomach acids, which can contribute to nausea and heartburn.
Ajwain water maintains a balanced Ph level in the stomach thereby providing relief.
3.) Ajwain Water during Pregnancy Aids in Respiratory Health
Dealing with all sorts of hormonal changes in the body is an overwhelming experience for an expecting mother and can sometimes cause respiratory discomfort.
Two very beneficial compounds thymol and carvacrol found in Ajwain have anti-inflammatory properties.
They relieve congestion and respiratory problems by reducing inflammation in the airways.
The aroma of ajwain has decongestant properties.
Inhaling the aroma helps clear the nasal passage and reduces congestion.
Ajwain water during pregnancy has also been used in many cultures for its antitussive (cough-suppressing) qualities.
The warming properties of ajwain water may relieve colds and coughs during pregnancy.
Ajwain water also has antispasmodic properties that relax the bronchial muscles.
This helps in easing respiratory distress and coughing.
Another benefit of drinking ajwain water is that it loosens the mucus in the airways.
This makes it easier to clear the mucus and provides relief from chest congestion.
Also Read: Is Ghee Good for your Thyroid?
4.) Helps in Reducing Edema
Some pregnant women face water retention causing swelling in the legs.
The diuretic properties of Ajwain water help reduce edema (swelling) in pregnant women.
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5.) Rich in Essential Nutrients
The essential nutrients in Ajwain water are good for the overall well-being of expectant mothers and babies in the womb.
However, it is important to remember that expecting mothers can not solely rely upon ajwain water for nutrition and must take a balanced and nutritious diet.
Pregnant women need an increased amount of calcium to meet the developmental demands of a baby.
Ajwain water is also a good source of calcium which can help in the development of bones and teeth of a baby.
Ajwain water also contains iron which can help against anemia and issues of fatigue during pregnancy.
Niacin (Vitamin B3) supports healthy skin, nerves, and digestion during pregnancy. Ajwain water provides a source of niacin.
Phosphorus helps in the development of a baby’s bones and teeth as well as in maintaining the mother’s bone health.
Ajwain water also contains protein and healthy fats necessary for the baby’s development of tissues, organs, brain, and nervous system.
6.) Helps Relieving Indigestion
Constipation, heartburn, and acid reflux are common problems experienced during pregnancy due to hormonal changes and persistent pressure on the intestines.
Consuming ajwain water with seeds provides dietary fiber and makes bowel movement easier.
Ajwain water has carminative properties that reduce excess stomach acidity and smoothen digestion.
7.) Ajwain Water during Pregnancy Helps in Alleviating Abdominal Pain
Abdominal pain or cramps are often felt discomforts by pregnant women due to digestion-related problems.
Ajwain water has antispasmodic properties that relax abdominal muscles and reduce pain and discomfort.
8.) Ajwain Water during Pregnancy Reduces Stress
An expecting mother is exposed to strong hormonal changes during pregnancy causing unnecessary stress.
This is not good for both the mother and her unborn baby.
Certain cultures have believed that the aroma of ajwain has a calming effect reducing stress and anxiety.
This can make a pregnant woman relaxed and happier, also necessary for the better development of the baby in the womb.
How To Prepare Ajwain Water During Pregnancy?
Ingredients:
- 1-2 teaspoons of Ajwain
- A glass of water.
Preparation:
- Put the water in a pan and keep it boiling.
- Once the water starts boiling, put ajwain seeds in the water.
- Let the seeds boil in the water for at least 5 minutes. The water will also be reduced to half of the original quantity.
- Switch off the gas and let the mixture cool down.
- Once the mixture turns normal, sieve the ajwain water using a clean strainer.
- Keep consuming the Ajwain water during the whole day in small quantities.
- Store the ajwain water in a clean container and a safe place.
- Start with a small quantity of ajwain water initially and monitor your body’s response.
How Much Ajwain Water to Consume During Pregnancy – Trimester-Wise Basis
How much ajwain water during pregnancy depends upon the expecting mother’s needs and health condition.
Remember to consume ajwain water during pregnancy in moderation and under the guidance of your healthcare provider or gynecologist.
Ajwain Water During First Trimester
Nausea, uneasiness, and vomiting primarily dominate the first trimester of pregnancy.
The ajwain water during this trimester can provide relief from all these symptoms.
You can start by taking a smaller quantity.
Prepare ajwain water using 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of ajwain seeds in one glass of water.
Consume it once in a day, ideally in the morning or whenever you feel nauseous.
Ajwain Water During Second Trimester
You continue with the same quantity as the first trimester, if it has given much-needed relief to you.
Ajwain Water During Third Trimester
Congratulations gal, you have made it this far!
If ajwain water has helped you get rid of pregnancy woes so far, continue taking it in the third trimester as well.
PS: Be cautious about any potential discomfort or side effects. Discontinue the use if you experience any trouble and consult the doctor immediately.
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The Takeaway
Many cultures around the world use the herb ajwain for culinary purposes.
People also widely praise the herb for its medicinal qualities.
Taking ajwain water during pregnancy provides relief from pregnancy-related woes.
Remember that the individual reaction to the herb may vary from person to person and excessive consumption during pregnancy can cause serious troubles.
Scientific research on the fetotoxicity properties (the potential harm to the fetus) of ajwain is limited.
However, experts advise against consuming excessive amounts of ajwain water during pregnancy, as it may harm the developing baby.
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article should not be considered as a substitute for a physician’s advice. Please consult your treating physician for more details.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Q1.) Is ajwain water good for cold during pregnancy?
Ans.) Ajwain water is effective in treating certain symptoms of cold during pregnancy.
Inhaling the steam of ajwain water helps in relieving nasal congestion.
The anti-inflammatory properties of Ajwain help in soothing a sore throat.
Ajwain acts as an expectorant, helping to thin mucus and expel it from the respiratory tract, providing much-needed relief from chest congestion.
Ajwain water helps with colds, but you should be use it along with other recommended treatments.
Q2.) Is ajwain and jeera good for pregnancy?
Ans.) Both jeera and ajwain have unique medicinal benefits for pregnant women.
Use them in moderation and under the guidance of a doctor.
Q3.) Is ajwain water hot or cold?
Ans.) According to Ayurveda and traditional herbal medicine, ajwain water is “hot” due to its warming properties.
Ajwain water generates heat within the body and has a warming effect when consumed.
अद्भुत लेख। अजवाइन स्वास्थ्य के लिए अमृत है। तुमने विस्तार से अजवाइन के लाभ पर प्रकाश डाला है। आशा है इससे मांए लाभान्वित होंगी।
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