Black caraway seed (Kalonji), also known as Nigella sativa, is an annual flowering plant native to southeastern Europe and western Asia. The plant grows to a tall of 20-30 cm and produces tiny, black, oval-shaped seeds. The seeds taste bitter and pungent and a used as a spice in many cuisines. Caraway is also used as a medicinal herb to treat indigestion, flatulence, and pain.
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(Kalonji) Black Caraway Seed –
Also known as Bunium persicum, black caraway seeds are a fruit (botanically classified as achene) that looks like a tiny, black sunflower seed. They are native to Asia and Europe but are also found in other parts of the world. Black caraway seeds have been used medicinally for thousands of years- although today most commonly used in culinary recipes.
Black caraway seeds (also known as black cumin) are small and dark brown, but their taste doesn’t match their visual appearance. Their flavor is similar to a combination of black pepper and cardamom; both herbs have several health benefits and side effects. In addition to having nutrients such as iron, magnesium, and calcium, black caraway seeds contain a compound called thymoquinone, which should have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Although black caraway seeds (Kalonji) don’t get as much attention as other edible seeds, they contain several healthy compounds that have to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. If you decide to add (kalonji) black caraway seeds to your diet, be sure to do so safely by reading the following information on their health benefits and side effects first.
History Black Caraway Seeds (Kalonji)-
Black caraway seeds (Nigella sativa) are one of the oldest plants used in food. They’ve been harvested and used by humans since 5,000 B.C.-when first cultivated in the Middle East. Nowadays, people use black caraway seeds as either food or medicine in many different cultures around the world; however, most people only know about their culinary applications and not their medicinal uses.
The plant produces tiny, black, tear-shaped seeds with a sharp, earthy flavor. The seeds are used as a spice in many cuisines, including Pakistani, Indian, Middle Eastern, and North African. Nigella sativa has a long history of use in traditional medicine, and its health benefits have a range of thoughts. Read on to learn about the black caraway seeds and how you can safely incorporate them into your diet and lifestyle.
Black Caraway Seeds (Kalonji) Used-
Kalonji are commonly taken after meals to aid digestion. Elsewhere, they’ve also been used to help with nausea and vomiting during pregnancy. Black caraway seeds may also help lower blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
There not are enough scientific evidence to confirm these benefits or any others at the time.
How Do You Use Black Caraway Seeds?
Although black caraway seeds look similar to cumin or fennel seeds, their flavor is quite different. When ground up, they taste a bit like licorice. Black caraway seeds can be used whole or ground up in dishes, including meatballs, meatloaf, soups, and stews. They’re also sometimes added to bread and crackers.
Recipe-
1/4 cup uncooked quinoa.
1/4- cup uncooked couscous.
2- tablespoons butter.
1- small onion, chopped.
3- garlic clove, minced.
2- tablespoons of fresh parsley leaves, chopped.
2- tablespoons fresh dill weed leaves, chopped (or dried).
Salt and pepper to taste.
Combine water and quinoa in a saucepan over medium-high heat. Bring to boil; reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15 minutes or until liquid is absorbed. Remove from heat; fluff with a fork. Stir in couscous, butter, onion, garlic, parsley, dill weed, salt, and pepper. Cover and let stand for 5 minutes or until all liquid is absorbed. Fluffy with a fork before serving or refrigerating leftovers for later use.
Where Can I Buy Black Caraway Seeds?
If you’d like to try Kalonji, you can find them online or in some health food stores. Just keep in mind that they aren’t always easy to find! Additionally, it may take some trial and error before you find out what works best for your particular needs.
Is There Any Scientific Evidence That Black Caraway Seeds Work?
At present, there isn’t much research available on kalonji. Some studies suggest that they may have anti-inflammatory properties. Further research is needed to determine whether or not these claims are correct. Summary Black caraway seeds contain several nutrients and compounds that may promote health when consumed in moderation.
Black caraway seeds are an excellent source of iron- Black caraway seed is essential for healthy red blood cells. According to Mayo Clinic experts, eating half a teaspoon of kalonji provides about 2.6 milligrams of iron- which is the recommended daily dose for men.
They also contain calcium, magnesium, manganese, and thymoquinone. Laboratory studies have shown inflammatory properties in thymoquinone. According to a study published in Cancer Letters, it can help reduce the swelling and pain caused by arthritis, or it can help fight cancer by slowing cell growth.
Some research shows that kalonji can lower cholesterol levels by inhibiting an enzyme involved in lipid metabolism. Other studies suggest that they may be effective against diarrhea caused by cholera bacteria or E. coli infection. In addition, animal studies show that black caraway seeds can prevent stomach ulcers and colitis. But more research is needed to confirm these findings in humans.
A. Physical health benefits of black caraway seed-
Black caraway seed helps with digestion. Black caraway seed helps relieve gas and bloating. Black caraway seed helps with respiratory problems. Black caraway seed helps with the immune system. Black caraway seeds protect the body against disease. Black caraway seed improves your cardiovascular health. Black caraway seeds help maintain a healthy weight. Black caraway seed strengthens your bones and muscles. Black caraway seeds can help reduce swelling and pain in the joints and muscles.
B. Mental health benefits of black caraway seed-
Black caraway seed helps with anxiety. Black caraway seed helps with depression. Black caraway seed helps with memory. Black caraway seed reduces stress. Black caraway seed improves your mood. Black caraway seed boosts your self-esteem and confidence.
C. Overall well-being benefits of black caraway seed-
- Black caraway seed gives you more energy.
- Black caraway seed improves your sleep.
- Black caraway seed helps you stay sharp as you age.
- Black caraway seed helps with fatigue.
- Black caraway seed helps with detoxification.
- Black caraway seed helps with inflammation.
Because black caraway seeds eat are in small quantities, side effects are usually not reported. Like, many herbs, black caraway seeds consumed should be in moderation.
However, those who consume high doses of black caraway seeds over long periods may experience mild symptoms such as diarrhea and stomach pain because they’re high in fiber and may experience bloating or stomach cramps if you take them in large amounts.
Additionally, because caraway seeds can act as a blood thinner, individuals who are already taking blood thinners or medications that thin their blood should avoid consuming these seeds altogether. Allergic reactions to these seeds are also possible- those with allergies to carrots or celery may want to avoid consuming black caraway seeds. It is important to note that pregnant women should avoid consuming large amounts of black caraway seeds because they might cause contractions or miscarriages.
Finally, pregnant women should consult their doctors before using black caraway seeds due to the lack of research into their effects during pregnancy. Suggest that breastfeeding mothers not consume black caraway seeds.
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