Description
Black Cumin / Black Caraway (Nigella sativa)
Black caraway is an annual flowering plant, native to south and southwest Asia, which is used for cooking and its medical properties. Greek, Egyptian and Chinese civilizations were aware of the beneficial properties of this spice. According to the Greek physician Dioscorides, black cumin seeds could treat headaches and toothaches. Now, science also confirms that blackseed is one of the most powerful medicinal plants known to man.
Several studies have also shown that black cumin seeds extract may help fight cancer. Moreover, black caraway is used for treating digestive tract conditions including gas, colic, diarrhea, dysentery, constipation and hemorrhoids. It is also used for respiratory conditions including asthma, allergies, cough, bronchitis, emphysema, flu, swine flu and congestion.
Black cumin seeds are aromatic with a peppery bite. So, it is commonly used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines. It can be added in salads, falafel and humus, cakes, bread, meat and spicy soups.