It goes by many names, including black caraway, Roman coriander, and black cumin, to name a few. Healthline's mission is to make people healthier through the power of information. It … Cumin is traditionally used to prevent muscle spasms and prevent gas. More human research and clinical trials are required before N. sativa and B. bulbocastanum can be heralded as cures. But no matter what you call it, these seeds are loaded with health benefits that we are only beginning to understand. Sometimes they are confused with “onion” seeds or black cumin or caraway. Black cumin (Nigella sativa) is often called black onion seed or schwarzkümmel in German and is more closely related to the buttercup family of plants. What are Black Cumin Seeds     – Definition, Features, Use3. Black seed, also known as black cumin seed, is a very small seed, and the people that use it swear that it can treat everything and anything! Moreover, they have a bitter taste, like a mixture of onions, black pepper, and oregano. The black seed of nigella sativa (black cumin seed) has been used for over three thousand years for preventing and treating many different diseases. This article reviews the potential…. This plant grows nearly three feet and has wispy foliage, small delicate, pale flowers, and capsule-like fruit filled with seeds. Black seeds actually refer to Nigella sativa. Sometimes it’s even called “black cumin.” #5 Black Sesame Seed (Sesamum indicum) Black sesame seeds are roughly the same length as Black Seed (Nigella sativa), but they are flatter and shaped like a two-sided tear drop, whereas the Black Seed is distinctly three-sided and shaped like the wedge of a lemon or an orange. Two botanicals, Bunium bulbocastanum and Nigella sativa, are commonly referred to as black cumin. In the future, B. bulbocastanum may prove to be effective at reducing the effect of diabetes complications and aging due to oxidation and glycation. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Thymoquinone helps to reduce inflammation, protect against cancer, and improve the immune system. The edible roots taste like coconut or chestnuts, while the leaves can be used as herbs. 1. What is the Difference Between Black Seeds and Black Cumin Seeds, Relationship Between Black Seeds and Black Cumin Seeds, Difference Between Black Seeds and Black Cumin Seeds, What is the Difference Between Mint and Peppermint, What is the Difference Between Thyme and Rosemary. Black Seed, also known as Nigella Sativa and black cumin, has been called the "Blessed Seed" for its miraculous curing ability. Here are a few reasons why you might want to try it. Nigella sativa is a flowering plant that’s also called: The plant grows nearly three feet and has wispy foliage, small pale flowers, and fruit pods filled with seeds. Kalonji, or nigella seeds, are known for their culinary and medicinal uses. There are ongoing studies to look at the role of N. sativa in controlling the beginning, growth and spreading of tumors. Black seed oil comes from the "black seed" aka Egyptian Cumin. Black seed oil has shown some positive results in research to find alternative and complementary medicines that can help the correction of blood sugar…. The fruit of the plant, the black seeds, accounts for its name. The seeds are deep black and sharp-cornered. It has been grown for centuries for its aromatic and flavorful seeds that can be used as a spice or as an herbal medicine. Here are 9 impressive health benefits of kalonji. The best seeds come from Egypt where they grow under almost perfect conditions in oases where they are watered until the seed pods form. Difference Between Black Seeds and Black Cumin Seeds Definition. Nutritional Value of Black Cumin Seeds (Nigella) The seeds are used sparingly for flavour and aroma only, so will not have any significant nutritional value. Bunium bulbocastanum or b. bulbocastanum is also known as black cumin, earthnut, and great pignut. No. If you picture white cumin seeds (which are used frequently in Indian, Mexican, Middle Eastern cuisines, to name but a few), black cumin seeds are much thinner and feathery looking, and the taste and aroma is smoky with hints of sweetness and citrus. We use them as a spice, natural flavouring or seasoning. Leaves are used as herbs or as garnish similar to parsley. Black cumin seed (also called black coriander or black seed), comes from the Nigella Sativa plant that is native to Asia, the Mediterranean and Africa. #6 Onion Seed Hasa has a BA degree in English, French and Translation studies. In Indian cuisine, we call them black zira (jeera). Both are purported to have therapeutic properties, and both are spices. Black Cumin Benefits. Learn about the potential health benefits of cumin. The specific epithet sativa means 'cultivated'. According to some research, B. bulbocastanum has antioxidant properties and improves cell function to prevent aging and cell breakdown. The fruit of B. bulbocastanum has been shown to be an antioxidant with potential cancer-fighting effects, though more research is needed. 1. The black cumin plant is native to southwestern Asia, the Mediterranean and Africa. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The cumin plant is a small plant native to the Mediterranean region. So what’s the difference? Black Seed, sometimes called Black Cumin Seed, is a herb native to South and Southwest Asia. Blackseed and black caraway may also refer to Bunium persicum. It is a member of the Ranunculaceae plant family (same family as the buttercup flower). However, this usage is incorrect. Recent studies show that there appears to be a cancer-cell-killing potential in N. Sativa that holds hope for future prevention and treatment protocols. The main difference between black seeds and black cumin seeds is that black seeds are Nigella sativa while black cumin seeds are either Bunium bulbocastanum or Nigella sativa. Black cumin, (Nigella sativa), also called black seed, black caraway, Roman coriander, kalonji, or fennel flower, annual plant of the ranunculus family (Ranunculaceae), grown for its pungent seeds, which are used as a spice and in herbal medicine. Moreover, these spices can be used as a replacement for each other. The round-shaped taproot is edible and tastes like chestnuts and coconut. However, They are moreover commonly mistaken for dark cumin, nevertheless, give us a chance to first have a more intensive … This time it is an extract from the seeds of the nigella sativa plant, also sometimes called black cumin, black sesame, black caraway, black onion or fennel flower seed. The seeds differ dramatically in shape, color and size. Nigella sativa is one the most revered medicinal seeds in history. Black seed oil is considered a "multi purpose therapy" while Flax is … What are Black Seeds      – Definition, Features, Use2. Overview Information Black seed is a plant. These processes damage our cells and contribute to a host of medical conditions. Black Seed Oil for Diabetes: Is It Effective. This food additive is also used for imparting a distinct, complex flavor to certain high-end gourmet cheeses. It’s been used for centuries to treat everything from abscesses to herpes zoster. It was even discovered in the tomb of King Tut. The largest producers of black cumin seed are Egypt, Indi… The seeds of B. bulbocastanum are most prized. These infections are often vancomycin-resistant and methicillin-resistant (MRSA), which means they don’t respond to antibiotics. Nigella seeds contain 40% dry weight fixed oil. One study concluded that N. sativa relieves most common nasal allergy symptoms, including: In new studies, N. sativa is showing promise as a treatment for bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics. They consist of a number of active ingredients, including the powerful compound thymoquinone. The main difference between black seeds and black cumin seeds is that black seeds are Nigella sativa while black cumin seeds are either Bunium bulbocastanum or Nigella sativa. Black seed oil may offer a number of health benefits. Black Cumin Seed. Black cumin seed (Nigella sativa ) is an annual herbaceous plant and a member of the Ranunculaceae (buttercup) family. There are many misconceptions about black seeds and black cumin seeds. Going to introduce to the difference between Cumin, Caraway, Black Cumin and Nigella. These seeds, about the size of caraway seeds, contain a number of active ingredients, including a powerful compound called thymoquinone (TQ). Some of you may use the names black cumin and black seeds to refer to a multitude of black coloured seeds. We’ll look at the nature and uses of black seeds in the following section. The history of black cumin as a healer is undeniable, with popularity of the seeds slowly returning. Debra Rose Wilson, Ph.D., MSN, R.N., IBCLC, AHN-BC, CHT, 9 Impressive Health Benefits of Kalonji (Nigella Seeds), What Is Black Seed Oil? “Blackcuminseeds” Di Badagnani – Opera propria (CC BY 3.0) via Commons Wikimedia2. Black cumin seeds can refer to two different plants: Bunium bulbocastanum and Nigella sativa. The seeds were even found inside the tomb of Tutankhamen, and are mentioned in the Bible. Considered native to the Mediterranean region, black cumin seed is cultivated in North Africa, Asia, and southeastern Europe. Although there hasn’t been extensive research on the therapeutic uses of B. bulbocastanum, several studies indicate that the herb may be effective in several treatment areas. The scientific name of black seeds is Nigella sativa. All parts of B. bulbocastanum have uses. Black seed is also known as fennel flower, black caraway, black cumin and kalonji. Both are purported to have therapeutic properties, and both are spices. Flax seed oil comes from Flax seeds. This variety is not related to the Cuminum cyminum species known as cumin, nor the cumin-related species Bunium bulbocastanum, also referred to as "black cumin." Morris, Susan York. In ancient texts and historical documents black cumin seed is noted for its therapeutic attributes and ability to support the body in its own natural healing processes. They also have a pungent smell. The seeds are used in cooking curries, stews and other dishes. In other languages: English = Nigella, love-in-a-mist, fennel flower, black cumin, black caraway, black coriander, black seed English, Old (also in King James Version of the Bible) = Fitch Finnish = Neidonkuka Black cumin comes from Bunium bulbocastanum, a plant species in the Apiaceae family, and is sometimes called blackseed or black caraway. Upon hearing the name, you might assume that black cumin seed is in the same family as cumin, the spice found in dishes from Mexico, the Middle East, and India. It looks like black sesame seeds and is often found on top of fladenbrot, a type of flatbread that's sold all over Germany in Turkish markets. Cumin are not just first cousin of carrot and parsley but they are also a visual twin of the caraway seed. People have used the seed to make medicine for over 2000 years. What is the Difference Between Garam Masala and... What is the Difference Between Oregano and Marjoram, What is the Difference Between Coriander and Cumin, What is the Difference Between Cafe and Bistro, What is the Difference Between Middle Ages and Renaissance, What is the Difference Between Cape and Cloak, What is the Difference Between Cape and Peninsula, What is the Difference Between Santoku and Chef Knife. Black cumin seed oil — sometimes called black seed oil — boosts the immune system, promotes balanced blood sugar and cholesterol levels, and wards off harmful organisms. Researchers are exploring B. bulbocastanum as an antibacterial drug. Considerable research is being conducted to determine potential applications for N. sativa in the treatment of a range of conditions, including: N. sativa has gained interest as a possible anti-cancer agent. The prophet Mohammed is quoted as saying in the Koran, “This black cumin is healing for all diseases except death.”. Black seeds are about the size of caraway seeds. Figure 1: Black Cumin (Bunium bulbocastanum). As your ally, our communities connect you to others who may share…. It's how we impact everyone around us. The plant is about two feet tall and topped with white flowers similar to Queen Anne’s lace. In English, N. sativa and its seed are variously called black caraway, black seed, black cumin, fennel flower, nigella, nutmeg flower, Roman coriander, and kalanji. Relationship Between Black Seeds and Black Cumin Seeds     – Outline of Common Features4. Other Types of Cumin . There are numerous varieties of cumin that grow all over the world, but black cumin (often called black seed oil) may be the most potent medicinal species of cumin. N. sativa in particular may pan out as a panacea for certain conditions. Black seeds refer to seeds of Nigella sativa while black cumin seeds can refer to seeds of two different plants: Bunium bulbocastanum and Nigella sativa. © 2005-2020 Healthline Media a Red Ventures Company. More commonly referred to as "black seed", this plant is native to the same regions of the world as Bunium bulbocastanum, but grows taller -- to three feet -- and looks completely different with small pale flowers and pods filled with seeds. Moreover, black seeds have been used for centuries to treat various types of diseases. “Black cumin seed” By Mountainhills – Own work (CC BY-SA 4.0) via Commons Wikimedia. Black seeds refer to seeds of Nigella sativa while black cumin seeds can refer to seeds of two different... Health Benefits. Even some products available in the market also use these names interchangeably, i.e., black seeds as black cumin, and vice versa. Home » Life Style » Food » Herbs and Spices » What is the Difference Between Black Seeds and Black Cumin Seeds. What is Cumin? Black seed oil, also called black cumin seed oil, is the oil derived by pressing or cold extracting the seeds from the Nigella sativa species. “What Are the Two Types of Black Cumin?” Healthline, Healthline Media, 13 July 2020, Available here. The name black cumin to refer to two different plants – Bunium bulbocastanum and Nigella sativa. Here are photos of black cumin seeds and true cumin seeds Difference Between Black Seeds and Black Cumin Seeds     – Comparison of Key Differences, Black Cumin Seeds, Black Seeds, Bunium bulbocastanum, Kalonji, Nigella sativa. It comes in three colors, black, amber, and white, with black being the most widely used. Black cumin seed (also called black seed) should not be confused with the herb, cumin (Cumunum cyminum, which is found in many grocery stores. Most notably, it helps fight Staphylococcus aureus, which is the primary cause of skin and soft tissue infections. The seeds, which are the most used part, act as a precious spice. It is native to parts of Asia, North Africa, and the Middle East. When used in cooking, it has a distinctive flavour that is sweet and earthy. Moreover, black seeds have long been used to treat many health conditions, like inflammation and asthma. You’re not alone. Most people use these two words interchangeably. Black seed oil is made from the seeds of the black cumin (Nigella sativa) plant, which belongs to the ranunculus family (Ranunculaceae). Do you know Cumin seeds are a first cousin of carrot and parsley? by Ingrid Naiman. Most people confuse black cumin seed for regular cumin, but it isnt the same thing. In comparison, black cumin seeds have fewer health benefits. It is a plant species belonging to the family Apiaceae and is native to Northern Africa, Southeastern Europe, and Southern Asia. Its coal-black seeds are matte or dull, and shaped like tiny Brazil nuts. The black cumin he was referring to is Nigella sativa. Black cumin is often used as a spice, but can also be found pressed into an oil for supplemental usage. A large body of research supports the use of N. sativa for the treatment of allergic rhinitis. Nigella sativa, which is the other plant species known as black cumin, is also called black seeds. Animal studies are showing promise for use of N. sativa for prevention of cognitive decline. However, it isn’t related to the spice, and there are two plants called black cumin that have therapeutic properties: Nigella sativa and Bunium bulbocastanum. In fact, some products available in the market also use these names interchangeably, i.e., black seeds as black cumin, and vice versa. In Russia and Poland seeds of Nigella damascena are sprinkled over cakes and breads. Moreover, black seeds have long been used to treat many … I believe that both curcumin (Curcuma longa) and black cumin (Nigella sativa) offer numerous health benefits. Animal research indicates that N. sativa warrants further investigation for the treatment of Alzheimer’s disease. Some recipes call for ground cumin, prepared from cumin seeds. It goes deeper than just feeling good. She is currently reading for a Masters degree in English. Although both these plants are used as spices and are considered to have therapeutic properties, they are quite different from each other. Her areas of interests include literature, language, linguistics and also food. You may or may not have heard of Black seed (nigella sativa) before. The seeds, we are told, have a history of use as a spice and medicine in Africa, India and the Middle East and were even found in … “Black Cumin.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 10 Aug. 2020, Available here.2. Two botanicals, Bunium bulbocastanum and Nigella sativa, are referred to as black cumin. Bunium bulbocastanum plant reaches about two feet tall and bears frilly leaves and white flowers. Do you have seeds of doubt about which cumin is the real black cumin? Black seed oil is extracted from N. sativa seeds and has been used in traditional medicine for over 2,000 years. 1. All You Need to Know, The Health and Beauty Benefits of Black Seed Oil. Black cumin can refer to the seeds of either of two quite different plants, both of which are used as spices: Bunium bulbocastanum, black cumin is considered similar to caraway, but they are two distinctly different plants. All rights reserved. It is an annual flowering plant belonging to the family Ranunculaceae. Archeological studies report that black cumin seed seeds have been found in several sites from ancient Egypt, including … Most importantly, all parts of this plant have uses. However, most people use these two words interchangeably. The book of Isaiah in the Bible mentions cumin (caraway) seed, and reportedly, the Prophet Mohammed said, "Hold on to the use of the black seed for indeed it has a remedy for every disease except death." Alternative treatments like B. bulbocastanum would be very beneficial.