Nigella Sativa, kalonji, black cumin, kalojeere, black caraway. Many names for this exciting plant but don’t get too excited about the Sativa part, this plant isn’t recreational.
Topping out at the discrete size of 12 inches or 30cm it has delicate foliage and is native throughout the Middle East and Northern Africa, although it has spread globally since then.
If you like flower gardens odds are you have seen this plant also known as Love-in-a-mist.
The flowers come in white and blue with fat seed pods, and it’s these seeds where the greatest value is found.
It was so valued in ancient times that it is mentioned in the Torah, the Quran, and the Bible multiple times and given in offerings to the Abrahamic God.
Taking a step back in time let us revisit the sands and pyramids of Egypt where entire fields of the flowers could be seen annually. Physicians of the time insisted it be kept in the home to treat many ailments. Bottles of the oil have been found in Pharoah’s tombs, so great was the value that it must be brought into the afterlife in case of their need.
Kalonji was considered a part of daily life for many people for any infection, stomach complaint, or headache. It was also part of the beauty routines of Cleopatra and Nefertiti, it’s quite likely the oil was used by many other women for the same reasons at the time.
It’s also a common ingredient in several ethnic cuisines. The seeds are frequently added to the mix of spices that make up various curries, different types of bread, and a couple of types of cheese.
Modern research supports the bulk of the claimed medicinal benefits. If you read my post on my child’s epilepsy then you are already aware of the anti-seizure properties.
Some other benefits include strong anti-cancer properties, broadly antimicrobial including bacterial, viral, or fungal infections. Some research also shows painkilling and sedative effects, as well as benefiting those with diabetes.
The smell of the cold-pressed oil is very mild making it easy to use with sensitive children on cuts and scrapes. No legal barriers to accessing it for epileptics. Low price point.
All compelling reasons for any parent to keep this in their medicine cabinet.
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https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/nigella-sativa