Caraway Plant

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Description

Also known as Persian Cumin, the use of Caraway as a flavouring is said to have originated with the ancient Arabs. Although Caraway seeds look like Cumin seeds, their flavour is very different, and more similar to Anise.

Caraway is a biennial, and thus flowers in its second year. The seeds ripen a month after flowering, just before the plant dies (but it will readily self seed). Not only can the seed be eaten, but both the leaves and roots also.

The herbalist John Parkinson noted that Caraway seeds were, "much used to be put among baked fruit, or into bread, cakes, etc., to give them a rellish. It is also made into comfites and taken for cold or wind in the body, which also are served to the table with fruit". In Shakespeare'sHenry IV, Squire Shallow invites Falstaff to 'a pippin and a dish of Caraways'.

• Reaches a height of 30 - 60 cm in its second year.
• Feathery leaves topped with umbrella clusters of pink or white flowers.
• Likes full sun, partial shade.
• Thrives best in less humid climates.
• Prefers well-drained sandy soil.
• Has a tap root so use a pot at least 20 cm deep if growing in a container.
• Should be cut back at the end of its first season.
• Will self-seed

Culinary Uses

• Tastes of Anise.
• Flavouring used in the German liqueur, Kummel.
• Used in cheeses, rye bread, cabbage dishes.
• Also used in Indian dishes.
• Leaves are pleasantly bitter can be used raw or cooked, like parsley, in their first year.
• The roots can be eaten like parsnips.
• Aids digestion.

Medicinal Uses

• Can be used to treat flatulence, indigestion and infantile colic.
• An extract of the seeds can be used to treat muscle aches.
• Used as a fragrance in toothpaste and cosmetics.
• Used as a flavouring in mouthwashes.

Disclaimer
As with all alternative medicines and plants with purported medicinal benefits it is important to inform your health care providers that you are using them; this helps to ensure safe and coordinated care. We can accept no liability for any side effect or contingency from any allergy or any other cause or harm that may arise. If in doubt please do consult a medical practitioner before using.

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How To...

How To Sow & Grow Herbs
Detailed advice on sowing and growing herbs outside and under protection. Includes information on watering and pest control.