Difference Between Black Seed & Sesame Seed

Black Seed, found in Tutankhamen's tomb and mentioned in ancient medical texts, is often confused with other small black seeds, including black, unhulled sesame seeds. However, Black Seed has traditionally been used medicinally rather than as food or seasoning.

Misconceptions

• The superficial appearance of Black Seed (nigella sativa) to several other types of seeds resulted in it being called black cumin in English. Others mistake Black Seeds for caraway seeds, onion seeds or coriander seeds, as well as black sesame seeds (Sesamum Indicum L). Black Seeds are not related to any of these.

Features

• The tiny, hairy Black Seeds grow from the 12- to 18-inch fennel flower plant, nigella sativa. White or bluish purple flowers bloom and ripen into fruit capsules that open, exposing the seeds to the air, at which point they turn black.

History

• Originating in the Mediterranean, Black Seed has also been cultivated on the Arabian peninsula and in northern Africa and Asia.

Function

• Physicians in the ancient world prescribed Black Seed to treat so many diseases that it was called in Arabic "habbatul barakah" or "the seed of blessing."

Modern Uses

• Modern alternative health practitioners offer both Black Seeds and their pressed oil as health tonics, including immune system enhancers.