Jeera & Ajwain Water

Two of the simplest Indian digestive remedies — single-seed waters you can make in minutes. Jeera (cumin) water is mild and everyday; ajwain (carom) water is stronger and the one to reach for with real bloating or gas. Both work by the same logic: the seeds' aromatic oils relax the digestive tract and ease spasm. These are gentler and more single-purpose than the four-seed Bloating Tea — keep them in mind when you want just one thing, fast.

Jeera Water (everyday, mild)

• 1 teaspoon cumin seeds (jeera)
• 2 cups water

1. Boil the cumin seeds in the water for 3 to 5 minutes until the water turns pale golden.
2. Strain and sip warm, or cool and drink at room temperature through the day. Some people soak the seeds overnight instead and drink the water cold in the morning.

Ajwain Water (for bloating and gas)

• 1 teaspoon carom seeds (ajwain)
• 1.5 cups water
• Pinch of black salt (optional, aids the effect and taste)

1. Boil the ajwain in the water for 5 minutes — it will smell strongly of thyme (that's the thymol, the active compound).
2. Strain, add a pinch of black salt if using, and sip warm after a heavy meal or when bloated.

Notes

• Ajwain is the potent one — thymol has a strong antispasmodic effect, which is why ajwain water is the go-to for actual gas and bloating, while jeera water is a mild daily digestive.
• Don't sweeten — these work best plain; sugar isn't needed and can counteract the settling effect.
• When to drink — jeera water any time (often first thing in the morning); ajwain water after meals or when uncomfortable.
• Related: Bloating Tea combines cumin, coriander, fennel, and ajwain for a broader digestive brew; the Fennel Mouth Freshener (Saunf Mukhwas) is a dry post-meal alternative.