Black Seed Whole (Cumin, Kalonji)
Botanical Name: Nigella sativa
Common Name:
- English: Kalonji, Black cumin, Small fennel, Onion Seed
- 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
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
Decoctions are suitable for roots, barks, large seeds & berries, and other dense material. The simple way to make decoction is, in a saucepan, add 1 tablespoon of dried herbs to 1 cup of water. Bring the water to boil, reduce heat and simmer for 30-60 minutes. Strain and squeeze out as much as liquid as possible and enjoy!
Tips:
- You can sweeten your herbal decoctions with a bit of honey, natural fruit juice, stevia leaves powder and or licorice root powder.
Precautions:
You should consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using any herbal products, particularly if you are pregnant, nursing, or on any medications.
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This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.