Nigella, a plant of the Ranunculaceae family cultivated for over 3,000 years across Egypt, the Middle East and India, produces small black seeds — one of the oldest and most documented natural remedies in history. Modern science has focused particularly on thymoquinone, the seed’s main bioactive compound, subject of hundreds of scientific publications. The seeds are also naturally rich in essential fatty acids (omega-6 linoleic acid, omega-9 oleic acid), plant protein and essential amino acids, B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6, folate), and minerals (iron, calcium, zinc, phosphorus, copper).

Kräuterland, a traditional German oil mill (Hesse) specialising in premium oils and seeds, sources 100% authentic Nigella sativa from Egypt, sun-ripened on sandy soil, organic certified (DE-ÖKO-003), whole and untreated to preserve all active compounds and essential oils, gluten-free, lactose-free and vegan.

Use in cooking sprinkled on bread, salads, grilled vegetables or soups; as an infusion (1 teaspoon of crushed seeds in hot water with honey); ground into smoothies, yoghurt or porridge; in spice blends (curries, ras-el-hanout); or plain, 1 teaspoon a day chewed or swallowed with water. Traditional dosage is 1–2 teaspoons a day (3–6g).

Not recommended for pregnant women (traditional uterotonic effect). Consult a doctor if on anticoagulant or antidiabetic medication.

What is the difference between black cumin seeds and black cumin oil?

Seeds contain the same actives as the oil (thymoquinone) plus fibre, protein and minerals; the oil is more concentrated in thymoquinone. The two are complementary.

Are black cumin seeds gluten-free?

Yes, nigella is naturally gluten-free and lactose-free.

Herba Barona is an independent specialist supplement shop in the heart of Paris — established in 2006. What you order is genuinely on our shelves: we ship from our own stock, with no dropshipping and no long waits.

Visit us at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, Paris 12 — or use Click & Collect and pick up your order in-store. We also deliver across France and Europe. Friendly, expert advice in English from our team.

Where is the shop?

Herba Barona is at 10 rue Théophile Roussel, 75012 Paris — a two-minute walk from Ledru-Rollin (line 8), close to Bastille. Open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30 am–6:30 pm.

Can I order online or collect in store?

Yes. We ship across France and Europe under the same conditions as our French store, or choose Click & Collect to pick up your order for free at our Paris shop.