Supplement analysis backed by scientific evidence · PT

← All supplements
Moderate evidenceWeight management

Cumin Extract

The common kitchen spice, concentrated. Meta-analyses of small randomized trials find real but small improvements in cholesterol and blood sugar; the weight-loss effect is minor.

Evidence last reviewed: August 2026

View on iHerb Ships to 180+ countries · welcome discount for new customers

What the science says

  • Blood lipids Moderate evidence

    A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials found cumin supplementation lowered total cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides and raised HDL. The included trials were small and mostly conducted in one region, which limits how far the result generalises.

  • Body weight and waist Limited evidence

    The same meta-analysis of lipid and anthropometric outcomes reported small reductions in body weight and BMI. The differences were on the order of one to two kilograms and came from short trials, so cumin is not a meaningful weight-loss tool on its own.

  • Blood sugar Moderate evidence

    A separate meta-analysis of randomized trials on glycemic indices, and a later GRADE-assessed review in adults with metabolic disorders, both found significant reductions in fasting blood glucose. Effect sizes varied widely between trials.

Dosage & safety

Studied doseTrials have used 75 mg/day of concentrated cumin essential oil up to 3 g/day of cumin powder, usually split across meals for 8–12 weeks.
SafetyGenerally well tolerated as a food; concentrated extracts may cause heartburn or belching. May add to the effect of blood-sugar-lowering medication. Avoid high-dose extracts in pregnancy.

Scientific references

Where to buy

View on iHerb

Ships to 180+ countries · welcome discount for new customers

Referral link — this site may earn a commission on purchases.

Related in Weight management