If everyone knew the amazing properties of black cumin, it would appear in our kitchens much more often as a valuable spice. Check what it can do for you and how to use it every day.
Let’s start by answering the question, what is black cumin? Its Latin name is nigella sativais also called black cumin by many people. It is a small, inconspicuous plant, reaching only 1 to 40 cm in height. Its blue flowers may attract attention, but the most important are, of course, the seeds.
It comes from the areas currently occupied by Iraq and Turkey, but currently it can be found mainly in the countries of the Mediterranean basin, as well as on the Vistula River. Yes, you can also come across black cumin in Poland.
Health-promoting properties of black cumin they are really impressive. This is due to many ingredients that, when combined, produce an amazing effect, thanks to which black cumin can support the entire body.
Let’s start with the essential oils present in black cumin seeds. We are talking primarily about thymoquinone, which is responsible for anti-inflammatory and antiviral properties, and also has antifungal properties.
The presence of ingredients such as: among others iron, potassium, calcium, magnesium, zinc and selenium. Regular consumption of black cumin can support the functioning of the heart and maintain proper blood pressure. This plant also strengthens our bones and teeth and has a positive effect on concentration. If you want to support your immune system and improve the condition of your skin, hair and nails, black cumin will also work great. Let’s also not forget about the proper functioning of the thyroid gland.
Black cumin also protects the liver, digestive system and kidneys. Its antioxidant activities mean that it can actually contribute to the regeneration of the body.
Black seeds are also valuable in terms of vitamin content. Black cumin contains, for example, vitamin A, which supports the wound healing process, and B vitamins – necessary from the point of view of the nervous system and the production of red blood cells. Vitamin E protects against the effects of free radicals, while vitamin F slows down the aging of the body.
As if all this were not enough, this spice also contains phytosterols and unsaturated fatty acids, which help reduce the level of “bad” cholesterol.
Knowing how much good this inconspicuous plant can do for your health, you should definitely start using it more often in the kitchen – as a delicious and healthy spice that can enhance the taste of dishes and snacks, as well as strengthen the body.
How to use black cumin in the kitchen? It will work, among others:
- as a topping for bread,
- for savory baked goods,
- for salads,
- for cheese (also on a cheese board),
- for meat roasts,
- as an addition to sandwiches.
As you can see, there are quite a few ideas. It is also worth remembering that black cumin in the kitchen can be found in various forms: whole seeds, ground seeds, infusion or the very popular black cumin oil, which many people supplement for immunity. Studies have also shown that such oil is also effective in the fight against excess weight – just about 5 ml a day is enough to notice faster weight loss after a few weeks of a low-fat diet.
Sources: olini.pl, Terazgotuje.pl
