Definition
Nigella sativa is a flowering plant whose seeds are commonly known as black cumin, black seed, or kalonji. Native to South Asia, it has been cultivated for millennia, primarily for its seeds, which are used as a spice and in traditional medicine. The seeds have a pungent, slightly bitter flavor and are often used in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine. The plant itself has delicate, feathery foliage and pale blue or white flowers.