As per old age tradition, it was used to cure general weakness, inflammations, skin problems, gynaecology complaints, cold and headache. Its skin-curing effect was already known to the Egyptian queen, Nofretete, this oil being one of the secrets of her beauty and vitality. Cumin oil is currently used as diuretic and deflating agent. One of its components, damascenin, is an effective antispasmodic and a short-term hypotensive. The plant itself is used as lactation stimulant and vermifuge.