The popular spice cumin has a long history of medicinal use.  It has been used to treat various symptoms including diarrhea, flatulence, gynecological, and respiratory diseases.  But a new study looked at a different effect of cumin — its ability to enhance memory and relieve stress.

Daily administration of cumin to rats inhibited stress-induced urinary biochemical changes. Memory and cognition, as determined by acquisition, retention, and recovery in the rats, was also observed to be enhanced by cumin.

According to the study, as reported by Green Med Info:

“This study provides scientific support for the antistress, antioxidant, and memory-enhancing activities of cumin extract and substantiates that its traditional use as a culinary spice in foods is beneficial and scientific in combating stress and related disorders.”