Bishop's weed, also known as ajowan or ajwain is a widely used spice in the food and pharmaceutical industry. Ajwain is also popularly used as a food preservative. The spice is similar to cumin in appearance though different in taste. It adds a distinctive flavor to food products.


Trade in Ajowan Seeds
The states of Rajasthan and Gujarat, in India are the main ajowan seeds or ajwain seeds producing areas. Other areas include: Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh. The spice is also grown in Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran and Egypt.

Uses of Ajwain Seeds
Food Industry
The spice is extensively used in a number of food products including savoury snacks, breads, pastries.

Medicine
It is used as a cure for indigestion and asthma. The spice is also used as a fungicide. The oil extracted from the seed is said to possess germicidal, anti-spasmodic and fungicidal properties.

Personal Hygiene Products
The extracts are also used to flavor toothpastes, tooth powders and mouthwash.