Filtering an oil removes some of the plant micro-particles, mucilage and fat-soluble active compounds to make a clearer liquid — but this also makes the product less rich. Krauterland’s unfiltered black seed oil keeps all of these valuable elements. You may notice a light sediment at the bottom of the bottle: a sign of a raw, complete oil, containing phospholipids, plant waxes and trace essential oils. The colour also runs deeper, from golden brown to dark green, reflecting the natural chlorophyll and thymoquinone content. The same active compound is also available in capsule form for those who prefer it.

Krauterland is a German company specialising in high-quality plant oils, controlling every stage from seed selection to bottling. The nigella seeds come from certified organic farms, grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilisers. Cold-pressing takes place below 40°C, preserving heat-sensitive essential fatty acids, vitamins and phytochemicals. Every batch is tested for purity, fatty-acid composition and absence of contaminants, and the amber glass bottling offers superior UV protection compared with plastic or clear glass, extending the oil’s natural shelf life.

Black seed oil has a notable lipid profile, rich in linoleic acid (omega-6), oleic acid (omega-9), palmitic acid and stearic acid, alongside thymoquinone, nigellone, flavonoids, carotenoids and vitamin E. In the kitchen, it has a peppery, slightly bitter, subtly spiced flavour, best used cold — drizzled over salads, grilled vegetables, hummus or cold soups, or paired with fresh cheese and wholemeal bread. In cosmetic use, it can be applied to blemish-prone skin, worked into hair masks, or blended with a neutral oil such as jojoba or sweet almond for dry areas of the body; a few drops on clean skin at night make a simple evening treatment. Note that its dark colour can stain light-coloured fabric, so allow it to absorb before dressing or going to bed.

The typical dose is one tablespoon a day (about 15 ml), ideally in the morning on an empty stomach or in the evening before bed, for a 2-month course, repeatable after a 2-week break. It can be taken neat or mixed with honey, lemon juice or yoghurt to soften its strong taste — start with a teaspoon if you are new to it. Refrigerate after opening and shake gently before use, as unfiltered particles naturally settle at the bottom. The oil may thicken slightly in the cold; this is natural and does not affect quality.

This is a food supplement and should not replace a varied, balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. Not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women without prior medical advice. Keep out of reach of children. Store away from light and heat.

Does black seed oil have a strong taste?

Yes — it has a distinctive peppery, slightly bitter, pungent taste, and Krauterland’s unfiltered version is more intense than a filtered oil since it keeps all of the seed’s aromatic compounds. If trying it for the first time, start with small amounts, such as a teaspoon mixed with honey or fruit juice, and increase gradually.

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

None — they are two names for the same product, extracted from Nigella sativa seeds, also known as black seed or habba sawda.

Why choose the 500 ml size?

It is the most economical option for regular use: at one tablespoon a day, a 500 ml bottle lasts about 33 days, so a 2-month course needs two bottles. It suits regular users who want to keep this oil in their routine without frequently restocking.

Is this oil suitable for cosmetic use?

Yes — being food-grade organic, Krauterland black seed oil is well suited to external cosmetic use on skin and hair. A patch test on the inside of the elbow before first use is recommended.

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.