Cumin (botanically known as Jeeraum cyminum L) is a seed spice of an annual herb. It is a native of the Levant and Upper Egypt and known to Egyptian even in 5000 BC era. Cumin seed is commonly known as “jeera” in India. Jeera is a widely used flavor in India and Middle East countries. It enjoyed a major role as a flavoring spice and of medicinal value throughout history. Jeera is used mainly where highly spiced foods are preferred.

Jeera is cultivated in countries such as Syria, Iran, Turkey, China and Latin America besides India. India is the largest producer and consumer of jeera. Jeera harvesting takes place in February and March in India. While at other origins, it takes place in June and July month. This gap in supply has kept the Indian jeera at an advantage position in the international market.

India is the largest producer, consumer and exporter of jeera. Gujarat and Rajasthan are the major jeera producing states in India. Uttar Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh produce small quantity of jeera. In the country, about 15 to 20% of the total output is exported and rest is consumed internally.

Jeera is grown as a rabi crop in India. March is the peak arrival period for jeera. Unjha is the major trading center for jeera. However, jeera prices in Jaipur are higher in comparison to Unjha because of the better quality of Jeera in Jaipur market.