Botanical Name: The botanical name of ajowan oil is *Trachyspermum ammi*, and it is commonly referred to as ajwain or carom seed oil.

Plant Part: Ajowan oil is primarily extracted from the seeds of the ajowan plant. The seeds contain the essential oil, which has a distinctive aromatic profile.

Extraction Method: The primary method used for extracting ajowan oil is steam distillation. In this process, steam is passed through the crushed ajowan seeds, causing the essential oil to vaporize and then condense into a liquid form. Steam distillation is favored for preserving the oil’s characteristic aroma and therapeutic properties.

Origin: Ajowan is native to the Indian subcontinent and is commonly cultivated in India, Iran, and Egypt. These regions are known for producing high-quality ajowan oil.

Color: Ajowan oil typically has a pale yellow to amber color. The exact color can vary based on factors such as the age of the oil and the specific extraction process used.

Ajowan oil is recognized for its strong, pungent, and spicy aroma. It has a thin to medium consistency and is often described as invigorating and aromatic. The oil’s scent is known for its ability to stimulate and energize.

Uses: 

Ajowan oil has various common uses in the pharmaceutical and culinary industry, primarily due to its therapeutic properties:

– Digestive Aid: Ajowan oil is renowned for its digestive benefits. It is used to alleviate issues like indigestion, flatulence, and colic. It helps stimulate digestion and reduce discomfort.

– Antispasmodic: The oil has antispasmodic properties that can help relax muscle spasms, particularly in the digestive tract. It is used to relieve conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and colic.

– Culinary Use: Ajowan oil is a popular spice and flavoring agent in various cuisines, particularly in Indian and Middle Eastern dishes, due to its strong, aromatic flavor.

– Respiratory Health: Ajowan oil is used to ease respiratory issues, such as coughs and bronchitis, through inhalation or as an ingredient in cough remedies.

– Antimicrobial: The oil has antimicrobial properties that can help protect against harmful microorganisms, making it a valuable ingredient in some formulations.

– Pain Relief: Ajowan oil’s analgesic properties can be used to alleviate minor aches and pains when applied topically.

– Aromatherapy: The oil’s invigorating aroma is used in aromatherapy to promote alertness and mental clarity.

Blends Well With: Ajowan oil blends well with a variety of other essential oils, allowing for the creation of complex and aromatic fragrances. It combines harmoniously with oils like cumin, coriander, ginger, and fennel. These combinations can create unique and stimulating scents suitable for digestive relief and aromatherapy.

Odor: The aroma of ajowan oil is characterized by its strong, pungent, and spicy notes. It has a stimulating and aromatic scent with an earthy undertone. Ajowan’s fragrance is often described as invigorating and enlivening, making it a favorite for digestive comfort and mental alertness.

Cautions: While ajowan oil is generally safe, there are a few cautions to consider when using it in pharmaceutical and culinary formulations:

– Skin Sensitivity: Some individuals may experience skin sensitization with undiluted ajowan oil. It is advisable to perform a patch test when applying it directly to the skin, especially if used in high concentrations.

 – Pregnancy and Nursing: Pregnant and nursing women should use ajowan oil with caution. It’s recommended to consult with a healthcare professional before use, as its effects during these periods are not well-documented.

– Oral Consumption: Ajowan oil can be used in culinary applications but should be used sparingly. Ingesting essential oils in large quantities can be harmful and should be done with caution.

Disclaimer: Please note, Medica Aroma Products does not recommend Ajowan Oil (Trachyspermum ammi) be taken internally unless under the supervision of a Medical Doctor certified in clinical Aromatherapy.