Legendary spicy herb from Asia with many culinary and medicinal uses. Best known as kalonji and used to flavour Naan bread, it can also be used in pickles, cheeses, breads, fish dishes and curries. Its aromatic black poppy-like seeds have an aniseed smell more like peppery nutmeg when crushed. It has a long history in Islamic medicine for its numerous antiseptic, stimulant and diuretic properties and, according to legend, the prophet Mohammed encouraged its use for curing everything except death! From the Nigella family, at maturity the flowers will drop revealing inflated seed pods which should be left until they turn papery golden brown. The seed inside is easy to extract and separate for dry storage. The flowers of Nigella sativa are delicate and attractive, typically pale blue or white with five petals. Direct sow into the garden. If starting indoors, stratify seed. Also known as black caraway, nigella, kalonji and charnushka. Stratify: Chilling seeds in the fridge for 2-3 weeks prior to sowing will promote germination by breaking seed dormancy. Note: Medicinal use of herbs requires thorough research. We advise checking with a medical professional particularly if pregnant, breastfeeding or on medication.
