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| - Last Updated on November 16, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media post claims that carom seeds or ajwain can relieve back pain. After fact checking, we found that the claim is mostly false.
The Claim
According to an Instagram post, “Roast the carom seeds (ajwain) on a pan on low flame and when it cools down, chew it slowly and swallow it. If used continuously for a few days, it gives great relief in back pain.”
Fact Check
Can ajwain actually relieve back pain?
No, there is no strong scientific proof that ajwain can significantly help with back pain. Ajwain is popular for its medicinal benefits, especially in helping digestion and reducing bloating, but there isn’t much research connecting it to back pain relief. Most of ajwain’s benefits come from its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and analgesic properties, but these effects are mild and not enough to treat serious or long-term back pain. Some animal studies also suggest that ajwain may help lower fat levels in the blood and protect the liver and nerves.
Dr Aryan Kumar Mohanty, Senior Resident, Department of Orthopaedics, MKCG Medical College & Hospital, Berhampur, Odisha, says, “Carom seeds (ajwain) have many health benefits, such as aiding digestion, fighting infections, and easing coughs, but they are not effective for treating low back pain. To understand and manage low back pain, it is important to know how the lower back is structured and what can cause the pain. The lower back is made up of bones, ligaments, discs, joints, and nerves that work together to provide support and mobility. The bones include five lumbar vertebrae, the sacrum, and the coccyx, while ligaments hold these bones together and provide stability. Between the bones are intervertebral discs that act as cushions to absorb shock and allow smooth movement. Facet joints connect the bones and prevent excessive movement, keeping the spine stable.”
Dr Mohanty adds, “Low back pain can occur when this system is disrupted by issues like injury, tumours, infections, inflammation, or ageing-related wear and tear. It can be caused by nonspecific factors (unknown causes), mechanical problems (such as disc degeneration or herniation), underlying medical conditions (like cancer or infections), referred pain from other organs (such as kidney stones), or less common factors like psychological stress. Proper diagnosis involves a detailed medical history, physical exams, and sometimes imaging tests to identify the cause of the pain. While carom seeds offer general health benefits, they do not address the structural or medical issues causing back pain. Effective treatment requires a scientific, evidence-based approach specific to the underlying problem.”
Similar to this, some naturalists also advocate bee venom for back pain. However, bee venom is not the correct clinical approach for back pain and comes with a risk of severe allergic reactions.
What are the known benefits of ajwain?
Ajwain has applications in Ayurvedic and herbal medicine for its various health benefits. The seeds are rich in thymol, an essential oil known for its antimicrobial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties. Ajwain can help with:
- Improving digestion and reducing gas
- Easing symptoms of cough (study in guinea pigs) and cold
- Alleviating minor stomach discomfort (study on rats)
There is some evidence that it may help with peptic ulcers, but the current studies are on rats and computer simulations, so we need more research on humans.
Carom seeds are generally safe for most people when consumed in usual amounts, and side effects are rare. However, excessive intake may lead to stomach problems, allergies, or increased bleeding. Pregnant individuals should avoid carom seeds as they may cause harm to the baby or miscarriage. People on blood thinners or blood sugar medications should consult a doctor before use.
Is there any medical evidence linking ajwain to back pain relief?
No, existing medical literature does not support ajwain as a treatment for back pain. Studies have explored the analgesic properties of ajwain, but it is still not considered a clinical approach for treating back pain. Back pain, which can be caused by muscle strain, spinal issues, or nerve problems, generally requires targeted treatments such as physical therapy, pain management medications, or specific exercises.
Dr Ubaid ur Rahman, General Physician, Holy Mission Clinic, New Delhi, clarifies, “Ajwain may have mild anti-inflammatory properties, but it isn’t a cure for back pain. For effective relief, it’s important to address the root cause of the pain, like muscle strain or poor posture. Using ajwain alone won’t fix these issues. It’s best to consult a doctor for proper treatment and advice on managing back pain.”
Some social media posts also promote leech therapy for cervical pain. However, we still need more evidence to substantiate this claim.
What are the treatments recommended for back pain?
Back pain can occur due to various causes, such as muscle strain, poor posture, or underlying health conditions like herniated discs. Here are some medically recommended approaches for managing back pain:
- Physical therapy: Structured exercises to strengthen muscles and improve posture.
- Over-the-counter medications: Pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help reduce inflammation.
- Heat and cold therapy: Applying heat or cold packs can provide temporary relief.
- Lifestyle modifications: Regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy weight, and ergonomic improvements.
Some complementary approaches can also help, like acupuncture, spinal manipulation, yoga, mindfulness, and stress reduction. But it is important not to rely on random home remedies from social media, like dates and methi, which claim to cure back pain, as this is largely false. In cases of persistent or severe back pain, consulting a healthcare professional is essential.
THIP Media Take
The claim that carom seeds or ajwain can relieve back pain is mostly false. While ajwain has minor anti-inflammatory properties that might offer minimal relief for small discomforts, it is not effective for back pain relief. For managing back pain, sticking to medically approved treatments is essential to avoid complications.
In summary, ajwain may be a useful spice for traditional purposes, but when it comes to back pain, it’s not a remedy to rely on.
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