Cumin is the dried seed of the herb Cuminum cyminum, a member of the parsley family. Cumin seeds are used as a spice for their distinctive flavour and aroma and are also well known for its medicinal properties in India and many other Asian countries. It is globally popular and an essential flavouring used in many cuisines, particularly South Asian, Northern African and Latin American cuisines. Cumin seeds are also a rich source of iron, a vital nutrient that helps in keeping the immune system healthy and strong.

Cumin is mainly grown in India, Egypt, Syria, Turkey, China and parts of America.

Gujarat and Rajasthan are the major producing centres for cumin in India, further there is significant contribution for the same by West Bengal, Uttar Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh and Punjab.