Herb library

Black Seed

Nigella sativa

Black seed, the small black seeds of Nigella sativa, are a long-standing household remedy used as a warming spice and a seed medicine. They are used in simple teas, syrups, and infusions, and blended with other kitchen herbs for respiratory and digestive comfort.

Traditionally used for.

• •Traditionally taken as a warming seed infusion for mild coughs and to ease seasonal throat discomfort.
• •Traditionally used as a digestive carminative, taken after meals to soothe bloating and promote comfortable digestion.
• •A long-standing household use is to sweeten and fortify honey or syrup preparations for a simple daily tonic.

Simple preparations.

• •Black seed tea: crush 1/2 to 1 teaspoon whole black seeds lightly, steep in 1 cup just-boiled water for 10 minutes, strain and sip warm up to twice daily.
• •Black seed honey or syrup: bruise 1 tablespoon black seeds, simmer gently with 1/2 cup water for 5 minutes, strain and stir into 1/2 cup honey or a cup of mild syrup, take 1 teaspoon as needed for throat comfort (do not give honey to children under 1 year).
• •Black seed steam or inhalation: add 1 tablespoon crushed seeds to a bowl of hot water, cover head with a towel and inhale steam for 5 to 10 minutes, resting afterward; useful for clearing nasal passages.

Cautions.

• !May cause mild stomach upset or heartburn in some people when taken in larger amounts.
• !Skin contact with concentrated seed oil can cause irritation in sensitive individuals, test a small patch first.
• !Avoid giving honey preparations to children under one year of age.
• !If you are pregnant, nursing, taking prescription medications, or have a chronic health condition, check with your doctor before using black seed.

Often kept beside.