Cuminaldehyde: A Potential Drug Candidate

Abstract

Cuminaldehyde is one of major constituents identified in the essential oil of a number of commonly used spices such as green cumin (Cuminum Cyminum L.) which has been traditionally used for the treatment of dyspepsia, diarrhea, abdominal colic and Jaundice. Cumin essential oil has multiple pharmacological actions including antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and anticancer effects. Therefore, a great deal of attention has been given to investigate the role of cuminaldehyde in mediating cumin's multiple therapeutic benefits. This short review highlights the most significant recently reported findings which unravel the extent to which cuminaldehyde contributes to the therapeutic effects of its producing herbs. Apart from its non-medical effects as natural bio-fumigant, cuminaldehyde is a promising potential drug candidate against various diseases.