The Effects of Cuminum cyminum L. and Carum carvi L. Seed Extracts on Human Erythrocyte Hemolysis

Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) and caraway (Carum carvi L.) are aromatic plants within the Apiaceae family. They have a variety of purposes and demonstrate antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. Methanolic and acetonic seed extracts of both plants were able to neutralize free radicals and carried antioxidant properties. Both seed extracts were able to protect erythrocytes from hemolysis. The methanolic cumin extract showed a higher percentage of protection than both extracts of caraway. Seed extracts of cumin showed slightly higher neutralization ability than caraway seed extracts (57.0 and 52.4% vs. 44.7 and 39.5%, respectively). Antioxidant properties of both seed plants may be useful in pharmacologic preparations.