Black cumin – properties, effects, uses
What is black cumin? Many people ask themselves this question when they first encounter this product. Black cumin is simply a plant with characteristic black seeds that have beneficial properties for the human body. It has been known and valued for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptian rulers wished to be buried with a cup of oil from its seeds, which they considered a life-giving drink. Even then, it was a valued ingredient in herbal medicine and cosmetics. There was even a saying that it could cure everything except death. Of course, attributing such health benefits to black cumin is unjustified, but it contains many ingredients that have a positive effect on health, making it worthy of being called a superfood. Discover its action, properties, and uses.
Black cumin — origin
Black cumin, also known as black caraway, black cumin, caraway, or the green lady, comes from Southeast Asia and Minor Asia. It also grows naturally in Southeast Europe. It is also cultivated in Poland, but on a small scale.
You can buy black cumin seeds today at purella.pl. This tasty spice from Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine is imported from India and Uganda. It is naturally gluten-free and suitable for vegans.
Black cumin — properties
Black cumin and its seeds are a source of thiamine, or vitamin B1, which helps maintain normal energy metabolism. In addition, the vitamin C, iron, and zinc contained in it help maintain the proper functioning of the immune system. Black cumin is also high in dietary fiber and is a source of protein.
Black cumin also contains other vitamins and minerals, such as: vitamins A, E, and F, as well as numerous mineral compounds, including magnesium, calcium, and potassium, which have a beneficial effect on the nervous system, mental well-being, and physical condition, i.e., help maintain normal energy metabolism. It has anti-stress properties thanks to vitamin E. It also supports the functioning of the digestive system, which is why black cumin is often found as an ingredient in supplements for weight loss, digestion, and the gastrointestinal tract.
Black cumin — action
You already know the properties of black cumin. It has antioxidant properties. Its protective properties come from the following:
• phospholipids,
• phytosterols,
• flavonoids,
• saponins,
• various fatty acids,
• proteins (it contains eight of the nine essential amino acids),
• carbohydrates,
• alkaloids,
• the vitamins and mineral compounds mentioned above.
For these reasons, black cumin has a wide range of uses and is popular in the cosmetics and food industries.
Black cumin — uses
Black cumin is a product that finds wide use in many fields, including cooking, cosmetics, and medicine. While cooking, you can often reach for it to enrich your meals with the unique properties of these small black seeds. And during your evening face or hair care routine, you can also reach for cosmetics containing black cumin. It is worth introducing black cumin as a superfood into your daily life and enjoying its supportive effect on the human body.
Black cumin in cosmetics
In cosmetics, black cumin is mainly used in the form of oil, which can be applied directly to the skin. The preparations made from it have anti-acne, skin-firming, and wrinkle-reducing properties. The antioxidant content delays skin aging and regulates the activity of the sebaceous glands, thereby reducing skin greasiness.
Cosmetics with moisturizing, antibacterial, and antifungal properties are also produced from black cumin. Its seed oil can be found in some shampoos. Regular use improves the elasticity, nourishment, and shine of the hair.
Black cumin in the kitchen
Black cumin is a plant with many valuable properties, so it is worth using in the kitchen. Here, the seeds work best, characterized by an intense spicy aroma and a sharp, slightly pepper-like taste. Below are a few ways to incorporate it into your daily diet.
1. Salad dressing. You can combine black cumin with any ingredients, such as lemon juice, honey, oil or olive oil, salt, a clove of garlic, etc. It all depends on your idea and the products you intend to dress. You can get a different taste every time!
2. Meat seasoning. Black cumin seeds combined with other ingredients such as honey, oil, and other spices can serve as a marinade. In traditional Indian cuisine, they are an essential ingredient in lamb dishes, soups, and sauces. They will work just as well in Polish cuisine.
3. Used instead of pepper. Due to its taste, ground black cumin seeds can replace pepper. An additional advantage here is the slightly spicy taste obtained.
4. Sandwich topping. Black cumin seeds will perfectly enhance the flavor of cheeses, cottage cheese, various spreads, or hummus. You can also mix them with other seeds, such as chia, sesame, or sunflower seeds.
5. Addition to baked goods. Homemade buns or breads sprinkled with roasted black cumin seeds will gain a tasty and vitamin-rich crust. Just like with sandwiches, you can use various seed mixtures.
Summary
Thanks to its extraordinary properties, black cumin fully deserves the title of healthy food. It is worth introducing it into your daily diet. If its taste is too intense for you, you can do so gradually, taking advantage of the many ways to use it in the kitchen.
