The seeds of Nigella sativa – known as black seed or black cumin – were found in Tutankhamun’s tomb, and have been widely used both as a spice to flavour food, and for their many medicinal benefits. It has been cultivated for many centuries with the earliest known written reference to the plant appearing in the Old Testament. Black seed is a powerful antioxidant, boosts the immune system, and also has analgesic, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial actions. Seeds may be eaten as they come or mixed with honey, sprinkled on food, used in cooking as flavouring, or taken as oil.