Used since antiquity, myth ordains that nigella seeds are pure black with near-magical properties. A popular condiment among ancient Asian herbal healers, it was also a favourite of Roman culinary experts. They are small matte-black seeds with a white oily interior and rough outer surface. Peppery with a crunchy texture, when rubbed they exude an oregano like aroma. These properties make it a condiment of great use in European haute-cuisine, however its magical annotations derive from the fact that the seeds have insect repellant properties.
Its day-to-day culinary use varies from sprinkling on breads, powdered addition to bread dough, to use in preparation of hot steamy beverages and soups. Forming a major part of the now popular Garam masalas in the UK, nigella seeds are used in the preparation of savoury curries and spicy palatable recipes.
Scientifically known as nigella sativa, it is also sometimes called black cumin and belongs to the buttercup family of flowering herbs. Postmodern age research has shown a wide-variety of its pharmacological uses, touting it as an emerging miracle herb. These scientific findings echo the reputation of nigella as a magical black spice that has been used since ages as a natural remedy for everything from asthma to diarrhea. Organic spice exporters report high demand for the medicinal usage of nigella in the following fields:
POTENT ANTI-OXIDANT
Research shows that nigella contains 4 potent antioxidants namely t-anethole, thymoquinone, 4-terpineol and carvacrol. All four of these are vigorously used by modern medicine for their antioxidant properties in the treatment of chronic diseases like cancer, diabetes, cardio-vascular conditions as well as obesity.
SUPER STIMULANT
Nigella seeds have shown strong results as a stimulant. Its consumption on a regular basis in healthy supplements fine-tunes the nervous system and enhances functioning of various neurotic factors - keeping your nervous system in pristine condition.
PROTECTS LIVER
Nigella seed manufacturers recommend its use for liver health. Nigella directly impacts liver health by reducing oxidative stress - a major factor in deteriorating liver conditions. It also protects the liver from harsh toxins, thereby increasing liver endurance.
