Roman Coriander, Nigella sativa, is also called Fennel Flower, although it is no relation to either Fennel or Coriander and does not look like them. It’s used as a spice in many countries, where it is known by various names, including Onion seed, Kolonji and Black Cumin (not related to cumin, either, lol). It’s closely related to the cottage garden flower, Love in a Mist (Nigella damascena), and is a member of the buttercup family.

Note that the name black cumin is used for this plant in Bengali-speaking parts of Asia. In other parts, the plant referred to by this name is black caraway, which is completely unrelated.

Roman Coriander is a hardy annual which likes full sun and well drained soil. The seeds are the part used, collected when ripe.

A standard infusion is made with 2-3 teaspoonfuls of crushed seeds to 250ml (1 US cup, 8 fl oz) of boiling water, allow to stand for at least 10 minutes and strain before use.

The standard infusion can be used to treat digestive disorders, including colic, flatulence (“wind” or “gas”), and worms. It’s also used in India to increase lactation in nursing mothers. The seeds, ground to a powder and mixed with sesame oil, can be used to treat abscesses and hemorrhoids.

As has been mentioned throughout, it’s very important that herbs grown for medicinal use are not grown with chemicals, and Roman coriander is no exception to this rule. To find out more about growing organic Roman coriander, visit the Gardenzone.

Aromatherapy

Not generally used in aromatherapy, but in India, an oil is extracted from the seeds (called black onion seed in India) and used to stimulate milk production, as an emmenagogue and stimulant. It is not suitable for pregnant women due to its estrogenic effects.

For more information on aromatherapy visit Guide to Aromatherapy: guidetoaromatherapy.org