Abstract

Earlier work was mostly focused on the therapeutic properties of Cuminum cyminum seeds commonly known as cumin obtained from local market with no genetic purity. Present study was conducted for evaluating therapeutic potential of cumin seeds in relation to their genetic variability. Methanol and hexane seed extracts of cumin genotypes GC-1, GC-4, RZ-19, RZ-209 and RZ-341 were tested on albino mice for evaluating therapeutic properties. Both seed extracts were found to possess antimicrobial, antiinflammatory, antidiabetic, hypolipidemic and antihypertensive properties, which varied significantly among the 5 genotypes. Hexane seed extract of cumin genotype RZ-209 and RZ-341 possessed enhanced antibacterial properties while methanol extract of RZ-341 was highly effective as a hypolipidemic. Genotypes GC-1 and GC-4 exhibited greater antihypertensive and antifungal activity, respectively. Antiinflammatary activity was higher in methanol extract of genotype GC-1 whereas antidiabetic activity was high in hexane extract of genotype GC-1. This study provided experimental evidence for the use of cumin extracts for treating various ailments as well as provided basis to identify suitable genotypes of this important spice for a particular therapy.