Caraway seed oil has been used for centuries in many cultures for its wide range of benefits. The caraway plant is native to Europe and Asia, and the seeds have been used medicinally since ancient times. Caraway seeds were even found in the tomb of King Tutankhamun!

What is Caraway Seed?

The caraway plant (Carum carvi) is a member of the parsley family. It grows to be about 2-3 feet tall and has white or pink flowers. The plant is native to Europe and Asia, but is now grown all over the world. The caraway seeds are the part of the plant that is used medicinally.

Different types of Caraway Seed:

There are two types of caraway seed: black caraway and white caraway. Black caraway is also known as nigella sativa or kalonji. It has a more pungent flavor than white caraway and is often used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisine.

Difference between Caraway Seed and Cumin Seed:

Caraway seeds and cumin seeds come from two different plants, but they look very similar. Caraway seeds are slightly curved and have ridges, while cumin seeds are more oblong and have no ridges. Caraway seeds are also darker than cumin seeds.

Caraway seeds have a slightly bitter, earthy taste. They are often used as a spice in baking and cooking.

How Caraway Seed Essential Oil is made?

Caraway seed essential oil is made by steam distilling the seeds of the caraway plant.

What is the botanical name of Caraway Seed?

The botanical name for caraway seed is Carum carvi.

What is the chemical composition of Caraway Seed Essential Oil?

The main chemical components of caraway seed essential oil are carvone, limonene, p-cymene and terpinen-4-ol.

What are Caraway Seed Essential Oil benefits?

Caraway seed essential oil has a wide range of benefits. It is said to be helpful for digestion, gas, bloating, colic and cramps. It is also said to be helpful for respiratory problems such as bronchitis, coughs and colds. Caraway seed essential oil is also said to be helpful for menstrual cramps and menopausal symptoms.

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What are ways to use Caraway Seed Essential Oil?

Caraway seed essential oil can be used in a diffuser, or diluted with a carrier oil and applied topically. It can also be added to massage oil or lotion.

Caraway Seed essential oil should not be used by:

  • Pregnant or breastfeeding women
  • Children under the age of 12
  • People with epilepsy or seizure disorders
  • People with high blood pressure
  • People with liver or kidney disease
  • People taking blood thinners

As with all essential oils, it is important to do a skin patch test before using caraway seed essential oil.

How can I use Caraway Seed Essential Oil internally?

Caraway seed essential oil should not be taken internally.

How can I use Caraway Seed Essential Oil topically?

Caraway seed essential oil can be diluted with a carrier oil and applied topically. It is also safe to use in massage oil or lotion.

How can I use Caraway Seed Essential Oil in aromatherapy?

Caraway seed essential oil can be used in a diffuser or vaporizer.

Great Essential Oil diffuser blends for aromatherapy with Caraway Seed Essential Oil:

  1. Caraway Seed and Lavender Essential Oil: This blend is great for relaxation and promoting sleep.
  2. Caraway Seed and Peppermint Essential Oil: This blend is great for digestion and headaches.
  3. Caraway Seed and Rosemary Essential Oil: This blend is great for memory and concentration.
  4. Caraway Seed and Tea Tree Essential Oil: This blend is great for immunity and skin health.
  5. Caraway Seed and Orange Essential Oil: This blend is great for uplifting the mood and promoting energy.
  6. Caraway Seed and Frankincense Essential Oil: This blend is great for relaxation and stress relief.
  7. Caraway Seed and Eucalyptus Essential Oil: This blend is great for respiratory health.

How can I use Caraway Seed Essential Oil in bath?

Caraway seed essential oil can be diluted with a carrier oil and added to a bath.

How Caraway Seed has been used historically as an alternative medicine?

Caraway seed has been used historically as an alternative medicine for digestive problems such as gas, bloating and colic. It has also been used to treat respiratory problems such as bronchitis, coughs and colds. Caraway seed has also been used to treat menstrual cramps and menopausal symptoms.

What blends well with Caraway Seed Essential Oil?

Lavender, Peppermint, Rosemary, Tea Tree, Orange, Frankincense and Eucalyptus essential oils all blend well with caraway seed essential oil.

What does not blend well with Caraway Seed Essential Oil?

There are no known essential oils that do not blend well with caraway seed essential oil.

What are Caraway Seed Essential Oil side effects?

There are no known side effects of caraway seed essential oil. However, as with all essential oils, it is important to do a skin patch test before using.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women, children under the age of 12, people with epilepsy or seizure disorders, people with high blood pressure, people with liver or kidney disease, and people taking blood thinners should not use caraway seed essential oil.

As always, consult your healthcare professional if you have any concerns.

What does Caraway Seed Essential Oil smell like?

Caraway seed essential oil has a spicy, earthy smell.

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Can I make Caraway Seed Essential Oil at home?

No, caraway seed essential oil cannot be made at home. It must be extracted from the seeds of the caraway plant.

What is the shelf life of Caraway Seed Essential Oil?

The shelf life of caraway seed essential oil is 3-5 years.

Is Caraway Seed Essential Oil safe for kids?

Yes, caraway seed essential oil is safe for kids over the age of 12.

Is Caraway Seed Essential Oil safe for pets?

Yes, caraway seed essential oil is safe for pets.

DIY recipes using Caraway Seed Essential Oil:

Bath Bomb:

1 cup baking soda

1/2 cup citric acid

1/2 cup epsom salt

1/2 cup cornstarch

10 drops caraway seed essential oil

5 drops from any one of Lavender essential oil

1 tablespoon water

Bath Bomb Instructions:

1. Combine all dry ingredients in a bowl and mix well.

2. Add essential oils and mix well.

3. Add water a little at a time until the mixture is the consistency of wet sand.

4. Pack mixture into a mold or cookie sheet and let dry overnight.

5. Remove from mold and enjoy your bath bomb!

Foaming Hand Soap:

1/2 cup liquid castile soap

1/4 cup distilled water

1 tablespoon olive oil or coconut oil

10 drops caraway seed essential oil

5 drops each from any one of Lavender and Tea Tree essential oil

Foaming Hand Soap Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a foaming soap dispenser and shake well.

2. Pump soap into hands and enjoy!

Room Spray:

1/2 cup distilled water

1/4 cup witch hazel or vodka

10 drops caraway seed essential oil

5 drops from Lavender essential oil

Room Spray Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a glass spray bottle and shake well.

2. Spray into the air as needed.

3. Enjoy your fresh-smelling room!

Linen Spray:

1/2 cup distilled water

1/4 cup witch hazel or vodka

10 drops caraway seed essential oil

5 drops from Lavender essential oil

Linen Spray Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a glass spray bottle and shake well.

2. Spray onto sheets and towels as needed.

3. Enjoy your fresh-smelling linens!

All-Purpose Cleaner:

1/2 cup distilled water

1/4 cup white vinegar

10 drops caraway seed essential oil

5 drops from lemon essential oil

5 drops from tea tree essential oil

All-Purpose Cleaner Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a glass spray bottle and shake well.

2. Use to clean any surface in your home.

3. Enjoy your clean home!

Author

  • Noor Ain, BSc, Master Herbalist

    Noor Ain has Bachelor of Science (BSc) from Clarkson University New York and Florida Atlantic University Florida. In addition he has completed Advanced Master Herbalist Diploma Course, Center of Excel...

    View all posts
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