Abstract: Cumin (Cuminum cyminum L.) is a material that can be used as medicine and food. The compositions and functions of cumin essential oil have been extensively investigated at home and abroad. Meanwhile, cumin essential oil is also confirmed to have strong antibacterial, insecticidal, anti-hyperglycemic, anti-cancer and antioxidant functions. In this paper, the components and functional properties of cumin essential oil have been summarized, which will provide theoretical references for comprehensive utilizations of cumin essential oil.

Key words: cumin essential oil , component analysis, antibacterial activity, antioxidant activity, insecticidal, antihyperglycemic, anti-cancer