Nigella/ Kali jeera
General Information
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Botanical Name: Nigella sativa
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Common Names:
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Kali Jeera (Black Cumin, not to be confused with Shahi Jeera)
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Black Seed, Kalonji (Hindi/Urdu), Mangrail (Punjabi), Krishna Jiraka (Sanskrit)
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Family: Ranunculaceae
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Origin: Native to South and Southwest Asia
Note: Nigella (Kalonji/Kali Jeera) is different from Shahi Jeera (caraway) or true black cumin (Bunium bulbocastanum) often confused in Indian markets.
Culinary Uses
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Used for flavoring in Indian, Middle Eastern, and North African cuisines
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Commonly added to naan, parathas, pickles, chutneys, and spice blends
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Lightly toasted or tempered in oil to release flavor
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Popular in Panch Phoron (Bengali five-spice mix)
Health Benefits
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Boosts Immunity – Contains thymoquinone, a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound
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Supports Digestion – Helps relieve gas, bloating, and indigestion
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Regulates Blood Sugar – May help manage insulin resistance
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Heart Health – Reduces cholesterol and supports healthy blood pressure
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Liver Protection – Detoxifies and strengthens liver function
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Anti-Cancer Potential – Thymoquinone shows promising results in studies on cancer prevention
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Respiratory Relief – Eases asthma, bronchitis, and allergies
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Hair & Skin Care – Nigella oil promotes hair growth and soothes skin conditions like acne and eczema
Nutritional Value (per 100g approx.)
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Calories: ~345 kcal
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Fat: 15g (including essential fatty acids)
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Carbohydrates: 52g
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Fiber: 10g
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Protein: 16g
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Rich in: Thymoquinone, iron, calcium, potassium, zinc, vitamin B1, B2, B3
Precautions
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Safe in small culinary amounts
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High doses may interact with blood sugar or blood pressure medications
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Avoid excessive medicinal use during pregnancy
Home Remedy (Nigella for Immunity & Digestion)
Ingredients:
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½ tsp nigella seeds
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1 tsp honey
Method: Mix and consume daily on an empty stomach
Benefit: Boosts immunity, supports digestion, and may help with weight management
