What is the scientific classification of Nigella sativa, specifically its family?

Nigella sativa belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. This family is commonly known as the buttercup or crowfoot family and includes many flowering plants, some of which are cultivated for ornamental or culinary purposes.

Where is Nigella sativa originally native to?

Nigella sativa is native to Western Asia, specifically mentioning Arabia, the Levant, Cyprus, Turkey, Iran, and Iraq, as well as Eastern Europe, including Bulgaria and Romania. These regions represent its original geographical distribution before it was cultivated elsewhere.

In which geographical areas has Nigella sativa become naturalized?

Nigella sativa has naturalized over parts of Europe, northern Africa, and eastward to Myanmar. Naturalization means the plant has established itself and reproduces in these new environments, becoming a part of the local flora.

What are the common names used to refer to Nigella sativa?

Nigella sativa is known by several common names, including black caraway, black cumin, nigella, and kalonji. These names often refer to the appearance or perceived properties of its seeds.

What is the origin of the genus name Nigella, and what does it signify?

The genus name Nigella is derived from the Latin word niger, meaning black. This name was chosen because the seeds of the plant are black in color.

What does the specific epithet 'sativa' mean in the scientific name Nigella sativa?

The specific epithet sativa is a Latin term that signifies cultivated. This indicates that the plant has a history of being grown and used by humans.

What is the typical height range for a Nigella sativa plant?

Nigella sativa typically grows to a height of 20 to 30 centimeters, which is approximately 7.9 to 11.8 inches. This describes its moderate size as an annual flowering plant.

Can you describe the leaves of the Nigella sativa plant?

The leaves of Nigella sativa are characterized as being finely divided and linear in shape. This means they are segmented into thin, narrow parts, giving them a delicate appearance.

What are the typical colors and petal count of Nigella sativa flowers?

The flowers of Nigella sativa are delicate and usually colored pale blue and white. They typically possess five to ten petals.

Describe the fruit structure of Nigella sativa.

The fruit of Nigella sativa is a large, inflated capsule. This capsule is composed of three to seven united follicles, which contain numerous seeds.

What are the seeds of Nigella sativa used for, and what other plant's seeds might they replace?

The numerous seeds within the fruit capsule of Nigella sativa are used as a spice. They are sometimes used as a substitute for Bunium bulbocastanum, which is also known as black cumin.

What does the image labeled 'Fruits' depict regarding Nigella sativa?

The image labeled 'Fruits' shows the characteristic fruit capsules of the Nigella sativa plant. These capsules are large and inflated, containing the seeds used as a spice.

What is illustrated in the image identified as 'Seeds'?

The image labeled 'Seeds' displays the small, dark seeds of Nigella sativa. These seeds are the part of the plant most commonly utilized in culinary applications.

What detail is provided by the image titled 'Close-up of the seeds'?

The image titled 'Close-up of the seeds' provides a detailed view of the individual seeds of Nigella sativa, highlighting their texture and appearance. This close-up perspective emphasizes the small, angular nature of the spice.

How are the seeds of Nigella sativa primarily utilized in culinary practices?

The seeds of Nigella sativa are primarily used as a spice in various food preparations. They are particularly common in Arab and Halal cuisines, adding a distinct flavor to dishes.

What specific preparation involving Nigella sativa seeds is mentioned for Palestine?

In Palestine, the seeds of Nigella sativa are ground to create a bitter paste known as qizha. This regional culinary use highlights the diverse ways the seeds are prepared and consumed.

For which types of dishes are dry-roasted Nigella sativa seeds used to add flavor?

Dry-roasted Nigella sativa seeds are used to flavor curries, vegetables, and pulses. Roasting enhances their aromatic qualities, making them a flavorful addition to these dishes.

What kinds of food items can be seasoned using Nigella sativa seeds?

Nigella sativa seeds can be used as a seasoning for recipes that include pod fruits, various vegetables, salads, and poultry. Their versatile flavor profile makes them suitable for a range of savory dishes.

In what types of food products are Nigella sativa seeds commonly used for flavoring?

In some cultures, Nigella sativa seeds are used to flavor bread products. This usage adds a unique taste and aroma to baked goods.

What is Panch Phoron, and in which cuisine is Nigella sativa a component?

Panch Phoron is a Bengali spice mixture that traditionally consists of five spices. Nigella sativa seeds are used as one of the components in this blend, contributing to its complex flavor profile.

Are Nigella sativa seeds incorporated into any specific varieties of naan bread?

Yes, Nigella sativa seeds are used in some variations of naan bread. Their inclusion is particularly noted in certain types, such as nân-e barbari.

What type of Middle Eastern cheese incorporates Nigella?

The braided string cheese found in the Middle East that uses Nigella is known as tresse cheese, and more specifically referred to as majdouleh or majdouli. This shows a specific application of the spice in Middle Eastern dairy products.

How does the U.S. Food and Drug Administration classify Nigella sativa for culinary purposes?

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies Nigella sativa as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use as a spice, natural seasoning, or flavoring. This designation allows for its common use in food products within the United States.

According to archaeological findings, when was Nigella sativa first cultivated?

Archaeological evidence indicates that Nigella sativa was first cultivated as far back as three millennia ago. This suggests a long history of human use and cultivation.

What evidence exists regarding the use of Nigella sativa in ancient Egypt?

Seeds of Nigella sativa have been discovered in several archaeological sites in ancient Egypt, including within the Tomb of Tutankhamun. This finding points to its use in that civilization thousands of years ago.

In what context were Nigella sativa seeds found in relation to the Hittites?

Nigella sativa seeds were found in a Hittite flask discovered in Turkey, dating back to the second millennium BC. This indicates its presence and use in Anatolia during that ancient period.

How did the Persian physician Avicenna refer to Nigella sativa in his writings?

The renowned Persian physician Avicenna described Nigella sativa in his comprehensive medical text titled The Canon of Medicine. He specifically noted its use as a treatment for dyspnea, or shortness of breath.

In which region was Nigella sativa historically utilized as a traditional medicine?

Nigella sativa was used as a traditional medicine in the Middle East. This highlights its historical significance beyond its culinary applications.

What proportion of Nigella sativa seeds is composed of oils?

Oils constitute a significant portion of Nigella sativa seeds, making up between 32% and 40% of their total composition. These oils are believed to contain many of the plant's active compounds.

Which fatty acids are identified as major components in Nigella sativa oil?

Nigella sativa oil contains several fatty acids, including linoleic acid, oleic acid, and palmitic acid. It also contains trans-anethole, which contributes to its aromatic profile.

What are some of the less common chemical constituents found in Nigella sativa oil?

Besides the major fatty acids, Nigella sativa oil contains minor constituents such as nigellicine, nigellidine, nigellimine, and nigellimine N-oxide. These compounds may contribute to the plant's various properties.

Can you list some of the aromatic compounds present in Nigella sativa?

The aromatic compounds found in Nigella sativa include thymoquinone, dihydrothymoquinone, p-cymene, carvacrol, alpha-thujene, thymol, alpha-pinene, beta-pinene, and trans-anethole. Thymoquinone, in particular, is often highlighted for its potential biological activities.

What other significant components, besides oils and aromatics, are found in Nigella sativa seeds?

In addition to oils and aromatic compounds, Nigella sativa seeds also contain protein and various alkaloids. These components contribute to the overall chemical makeup of the seeds.

What is the general scientific assessment of Nigella sativa's effectiveness in treating human diseases based on folk medicine use?

Despite its widespread use in folk medicine, there is currently insufficient high-quality clinical evidence to confirm that consuming Nigella sativa seeds or oil can effectively treat human diseases. More rigorous scientific studies are needed to validate its medicinal claims.

What did a meta-analysis reveal about the impact of Nigella sativa on blood pressure?

A meta-analysis of clinical trials found weak evidence suggesting that Nigella sativa may offer a short-term benefit in lowering both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. However, the evidence is considered preliminary and requires further investigation.

According to a 2016 review, what effects might Nigella sativa supplementation have on lipid levels?

A 2016 review indicated that supplementation with Nigella sativa might lead to a reduction in total cholesterol, LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, and triglyceride levels. These findings suggest a potential positive impact on cardiovascular health markers.

What other species from the Nigella genus is mentioned in the article?

The article mentions Nigella damascena, commonly known as love-in-a-mist, in the 'See also' section. This indicates another species within the same genus.

What are some of the scientific synonyms listed for Nigella sativa?

Listed synonyms for Nigella sativa include Nigella cretica, Nigella indica, and Nigella truncata. These alternative scientific names have been used historically for the species.

Which other plant species shares common names like 'black seed' or 'black caraway' with Nigella sativa?

The common names 'black seed' and 'black caraway' can also refer to Elwendia persica, which is also known by its synonym Bunium persicum. This can sometimes lead to confusion between the two plants.

What Latin word inspired the genus name Nigella, and what is its meaning?

The genus name Nigella is inspired by the Latin word niger, which translates to black. This naming convention directly refers to the characteristic black color of the plant's seeds.

What does the Latin word 'sativa' signify within the scientific name Nigella sativa?

In the scientific name Nigella sativa, the Latin word sativa signifies that the plant is cultivated. This term highlights its long history of being grown and utilized by humans for various purposes.

What is the name given to the braided string cheese in the Middle East that uses Nigella?

The braided string cheese found in the Middle East that uses Nigella is known as tresse cheese, and more specifically referred to as majdouleh or majdouli. This shows a specific application of the spice in Middle Eastern dairy products.

Besides ancient Egypt, where else have ancient seeds of Nigella sativa been discovered?

Ancient seeds of Nigella sativa have also been discovered in Turkey, specifically within a Hittite flask dating back to the second millennium BC. This indicates its presence in the region even earlier than previously thought.

What is the title of the medical work by Avicenna that mentions Nigella sativa?

Avicenna, the Persian physician, described Nigella sativa in his comprehensive medical text titled The Canon of Medicine. This work is a significant historical reference for the plant's medicinal uses.

Which specific isomer of anethole is identified as a component of Nigella sativa oil?

The specific isomer of anethole mentioned as a constituent of Nigella sativa oil is trans-anethole. This compound is known for its aromatic properties.

What is the quality of clinical evidence supporting the use of Nigella sativa in folk medicine?

The clinical evidence supporting the use of Nigella sativa in folk medicine practices is generally considered insufficient. High-quality studies are needed to validate its efficacy for treating specific human diseases.

Name some of the scientific databases that provide identifiers for Nigella sativa.

Several databases provide identifiers for Nigella sativa, including Wikidata, Wikispecies, BioLib, Catalogue of Life (CoL), GBIF (Global Biodiversity Information Facility), GRIN (Germplasm Resources Information Network), ITIS (Integrated Taxonomic Information System), NCBI (National Center for Biotechnology Information), and POWO (Plants of the World Online). These identifiers help in cataloging and referencing the species across scientific resources.

What categories of authority control databases are listed for Nigella sativa?

The authority control databases listed for Nigella sativa include national databases, such as one for Latvia, and other international databases like Yale LUX. These systems help ensure consistent identification and information management for the species.

What is the literal meaning of the term Panch Phoron?

The term Panch Phoron is derived from Bengali and literally means 'a mixture of five spices.' It refers to a specific blend of spices commonly used in Bengali cuisine.

Can you list the specific countries or regions within Western Asia where Nigella sativa is considered native?

Nigella sativa is native to several countries and regions within Western Asia, including Arabia, the Levant, Cyprus, Turkey, Iran, and Iraq. This geographical area represents its origin.

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What is Nigella Sativa?

Botanical Classification

Nigella sativa, commonly referred to as black caraway, black cumin, or kalonji, is an annual flowering plant belonging to the Ranunculaceae family. It is indigenous to Western Asia, including regions like Arabia, the Levant, Cyprus, Turkey, Iran, and Iraq, and has also naturalized across parts of Europe and North Africa, extending eastward to Myanmar. Its seeds are widely utilized as a spice in various culinary traditions, particularly within Arab and Halal cuisines.

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

The genus name Nigella is derived from the Latin diminutive of niger, meaning "black," a reference to the characteristic color of its seeds. The specific epithet, sativa, denotes that the plant is cultivated. This nomenclature highlights its long history of human cultivation and its distinctive seed appearance.

Global Presence

While native to Western Asia and Eastern Europe, N. sativa has been naturalized across extensive areas, demonstrating its adaptability. Its widespread cultivation and use underscore its significance in global agriculture and culinary practices.

Botanical Description

Morphology and Structure

Nigella sativa typically reaches a height of 20–30 cm (7.9–11.8 in). It features finely divided leaves. The flowers are delicate, usually exhibiting pale blue and white coloration, and possess five to ten petals. The plant produces a large, inflated capsule that comprises three to seven united follicles. Each follicle contains numerous seeds, which are the primary component utilized for culinary and medicinal purposes.

Seed Characteristics

The seeds of N. sativa are small, black, and angular. They are often employed as a spice, sometimes serving as a substitute for seeds of Bunium bulbocastanum, which is also known as black cumin. The distinctive aroma and flavor profile of these seeds contribute significantly to their culinary value.

Culinary Applications

Flavor Profile and Usage

The seeds of N. sativa are a staple spice in numerous cuisines. In Palestine, they are ground into a bitter paste known as qizha. The dry-roasted seeds impart a unique flavor to curries, vegetables, and pulses, and are frequently used as a seasoning for legumes and salads, as well as in poultry dishes. Their inclusion in spice mixtures, such as panch phoron in Bengali cuisine and certain types of naan bread, highlights their versatility.

Regulatory Status

In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) classifies Nigella sativa as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for its use as a spice, natural seasoning, or flavoring agent. This designation reflects its long history of safe consumption as a food ingredient.

Historical Significance

Ancient Cultivation and Use

Archaeological evidence suggests that N. sativa cultivation dates back at least three millennia. Seeds have been discovered in ancient Egyptian sites, including the Tomb of Tutankhamun, and in a Hittite flask found in Turkey dating to the second millennium BC. Historically, it was employed as a condiment in the Old World to enhance food flavor.

The Persian physician Avicenna, in his seminal work The Canon of Medicine, documented N. sativa as a treatment for dyspnea (shortness of breath). Its use as a traditional medicine in the Middle East further solidifies its historical importance beyond its culinary applications.

Chemical Composition

Key Constituents of the Seed Oil

The seeds of N. sativa are rich in oils, constituting approximately 32% to 40% of their total composition. The oil is characterized by the presence of fatty acids such as linoleic acid, oleic acid, and palmitic acid. Notably, it contains trans-anethole and other minor constituents like nigellicine, nigellidine, nigellimine, and nigellimine N-oxide. The aromatic components include thymoquinone, dihydrothymoquinone, p-cymene, carvacrol, α-thujene, thymol, α-pinene, β-pinene, and trans-anethole. The seeds also contain significant amounts of protein and various alkaloids.

Active Compounds

Thymoquinone is recognized as a principal bioactive constituent of N. sativa oil, contributing to many of its purported properties. The complex array of compounds present in the seeds and their oil has been the subject of extensive scientific investigation.

Folk Medicine and Clinical Evidence

Traditional Uses

Nigella sativa has been extensively employed in folk medicine practices across Africa and Asia for a wide range of ailments. Its historical use as a remedy is well-documented in various traditional systems of medicine.

Despite its widespread traditional use, high-quality clinical evidence supporting the efficacy of N. sativa seeds or oil for treating specific human diseases remains limited. However, some studies suggest potential benefits. A meta-analysis indicated weak evidence for a short-term reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Furthermore, a 2016 review suggested that N. sativa supplementation might lead to reductions in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels.

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References

Bunium persicum - (Boiss.) B.Fedtsch. Common name black caraway

A full list of references for this article are available at the Nigella sativa Wikipedia page

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Important Notice

This content has been generated by Artificial Intelligence for educational and informational purposes only. It is based on data sourced from Wikipedia and may not reflect the most current information or comprehensive understanding of Nigella sativa.

This is not medical advice. The information presented here is not a substitute for professional medical consultation, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or the use of herbal supplements. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of information obtained from this resource.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.

Black Seed Unveiled

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

What is Nigella Sativa?

Botanical Classification

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

Global Presence

Botanical Description

Morphology and Structure

Seed Characteristics

Culinary Applications

Flavor Profile and Usage

Regulatory Status

Historical Significance

Ancient Cultivation and Use

Chemical Composition

Key Constituents of the Seed Oil

Active Compounds

Folk Medicine and Clinical Evidence

Traditional Uses

Related Species and Topics

Related Species

Further Exploration

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What is Nigella Sativa? 🌿

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Culinary Applications 🌶️

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What is Nigella Sativa?

Botanical Classification

Nomenclature and Taxonomy

Global Presence

Botanical Description

Morphology and Structure

Seed Characteristics

Culinary Applications

Flavor Profile and Usage

Regulatory Status

Historical Significance

Ancient Cultivation and Use

Chemical Composition

Key Constituents of the Seed Oil

Active Compounds

Folk Medicine and Clinical Evidence

Traditional Uses

Related Species and Topics

Related Species

Further Exploration

Teacher's Corner

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Discover other topics to study!

References

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