Can Cumin Seeds Help Lower Cholesterol? What the Research Suggests

Cumin seeds have long been used in cooking for their warm, earthy flavour, but over recent years they’ve attracted attention for something more: potential benefits for heart health. 

In particular, some reports suggest cumin may help to lower cholesterol levels. But how strong is the evidence, and is it worth adding to your daily routine?

Here’s a closer look.

Why Cumin Seeds Are Gaining Attention

Cumin (Cuminum cyminum) is rich in antioxidants and plant compounds that may support metabolic health. 

It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries, especially in South Asia and the Middle East, and modern research has begun exploring its possible effects on:

Digestion

Blood sugar regulation

Inflammation

Cholesterol levels

The last point is where things get especially interesting.

What the Studies Say About Cholesterol

Several small-scale studies have reported that cumin may help reduce both total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol (the so-called “bad” type), while sometimes increasing HDL cholesterol (the “good” type).

Findings from these reports include:

1. Improved LDL Levels

Some trials found that participants taking cumin supplements or cumin powder experienced noticeable reductions in LDL cholesterol after several weeks.

2. Possible Boost to HDL Levels

In a few studies, cumin appeared to help raise HDL cholesterol slightly—an effect that supports better long-term heart health.

3. Antioxidant Activity

Researchers often link cumin’s potential benefits to its antioxidants, such as flavonoids and phenolic acids, which may protect cells from oxidative stress. This protection may contribute to healthier cholesterol profiles.

That said, it’s important to keep expectations realistic. Most studies so far have been relatively small, often involving supplements rather than culinary quantities. More research is still needed before cumin can be recommended as a definitive treatment.

How to Include Cumin in Your Diet

Even though the science is still developing, adding cumin to your meals is an easy, affordable way to increase flavour while supporting a balanced diet. You can enjoy it:

Sprinkled into soups or stews

Mixed into yoghurt as a savoury dip

Toasted and added to rice or roasted vegetables

Used in marinades for chicken or lamb

Brewed as a warm cumin tea

Cumin supplements also exist, but it’s wise to speak to a GP or pharmacist before taking any new supplement—especially if you’re on medication for cholesterol or blood pressure.

Cumin Is Helpful, Not a Miracle Cure

Cumin seeds can play a small supporting role in a heart-healthy lifestyle, but they’re not a substitute for the bigger pillars of cholesterol management:

A balanced diet low in saturated fats

Plenty of fruit, vegetables, and soluble fibre

Regular exercise

Limiting alcohol

Stopping smoking

Following medical advice where needed

If anything, cumin works best as part of a holistic approach rather than a standalone fix.

Reports suggesting that cumin may help lower cholesterol are encouraging, and emerging research gives the idea some weight. While cumin won’t replace prescribed treatments, it’s a delicious, nutrient-rich spice that can support overall wellbeing as part of a balanced diet.

If you enjoy its flavour, adding a little more cumin to your meals is a simple and tasty way to support a heart-friendly lifestyle.