Nigella or Black Seed

Nigella or Black Seed

Nigella sativa

 Native to South and Southwest Asia, this ancient spice is also known as Black Seed or Black Cumin. Used for centuries in eastern cuisine and as a medicinal remedy for bronchitis and to clear stuffy/blocked noses and sinuses: In Morocco, seed is placed in a cloth, twisted into a ball, rubbed vigorously and then inhaled deeply, one nostril at a time.

Grows in a small compact bush up to 12" (30cm) tall and produces pretty, delicate pale blue flowers which become seed filled pods. Makes for an interesting potted plant.