Carum carvi aka cumin. Steam Distilled from the seeds, obtained directly from the producers in India.

History: Also known as Meadow Cumin, Caraway is a very old and well-known spice, used as far back as the Stone Age, according to the evidence found in archaeological digs. The Egyptians used it as flavouring in foods, the Romans in bread-making, and by the Middle Ages in Europe, it had found popularity among the Germans and Austrians in their cooking as well. Caraway is presently distributed through most of Europe, except the Mediterranean region.

Aroma: A middle note with a strong aroma, Caraway Essential Oil has a sweet spicy odour with a slight peppery smell.

Common Uses: Caraway has a long tradition of use in folk medicine. Caraway is traditionally used to relieve many digestive disturbances: stomach aches, constipation, nausea, bloating and flatulence. Caraway fruits are a popular remedy to mask alcoholic breath, treat anemia, and as an antidote agent against venomous beats. Caraway infusion is a remedy for worms. Caraway fruits possess stimulant, expectorant and antispasmodic effects. Caraway fruit oil is used for its scent in soaps, lotions, and perfumes. Caraway is also used to freshen breath.

Description / Colour / Consistency: A thin, clear, colourless to pale yellow liquid.

Main Constituents:
Carvone: 82.0% limonene, and anethole.

Blends With: Basil, Chamomile, Coriander, Lavender and Orange.

Cautions: Dilute before use; for external use only. May cause skin irritation in some individuals; a skin test is recommended before use. Contact with eyes should be avoided.

Photo thanks to Robert Flogaus-Faust, CC BY 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons