Botanical Name: Nigella sativa

Common Name:

English: Kalonji, Black cumin, Small fennel
Ayurvedic: Upikunchikaa, Kaalaajaaji, Kaliklla, Sushavi
Unani: Kalonji, Kamaazaruus
Also, known as: Karum seragm, Prthvikaa, Sthulajiraka, Upakunci, Susavi, Mota kalajira, Nigella seed, Kalonji jiru, Kalounji, Kalonji, Peddajila karra, Karunjeerakam, Kalvanji, Kalaunji jire, Karinjirakam, Kath, Karijirige, Mangaraila, Kalejire, Karunjiragam, Sthulajiraka, Nutmeg flower, Faux cumin, Quatre epices, Toute epice, Schwarzkummel, Nigella, Ciminella, Pei hei zhong cao, Poivrette, Cumin noire, Cyah- daneh, Niela, Niguiella, ajenuj comun, Corek out, Kamun aswad, Shuniz

Habitat: Throughout India & Mediterranean regions

Origin: India

Harvested: Cultivated

Parts Used: Seed

General Information:

The Nigella sativa plant is an erect annual herb of about 1 foot high with compound leaves and attractive white or pale blue flowers. The seeds of this plant are flattened, oblong, angular, tubercular, small funnel shaped 0.2 cm long and 0.1 cm wide, black, odor, slightly aromatic and bitter in taste. The seeds are sometimes referred to as Onion seeds.

The seed is very important as a condiment, general tonic and traditional medicine in Arabia, Egypt, and India. The aromatic, pungent seeds are an important spice and traditionally sprinkle over cakes and bread, Such as Indian Naan bread. It Is also used in flavored spice dishes. The aroma of the seeds resembles thyme and oregano due to the presence of thymol and thymoquinone in the essential oils.

How to use:

As a spice

Powdered Herb:

There are different ways to use powdered herb.

Food Preparation: You can add powdered herb to any super food herbal smoothie, sauces, spreads and even cookies. Also for children, you can mix powdered herb with honey or glycerin to make paste. The thicker the paste, the more potent and herbal in taste. The sweet taste of honey and glycerin will help medicine go down. This method is also known as "Electuaries".

Capsules: Encapsulating your own powdered herb at home, gives you assurance that the contents of the capsules are pure herb and no filler or any other products. These capsules can be taken with liquid.

Poultice: Poultice can be made with an herbal powder and liquid (mostly water) to form a paste which is then applied to the skin. This method is very helpful for skin conditions.

Herbal shot: Powdered herb can be mixed with water, fruit juice or other liquid to make herbal shot.

Precautions:

You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.

All information on this website is for educational purpose ONLY

This information has not been evaluated by Health Canada.

This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Black Seed Powder