The filigree and also very easy-care damsel in the open (Nigella damascena) is a popular summer flower, which - although originally from the Mediterranean region - has been documented in our latitudes since the 14th century. Although the annual plant with the delicate flowers only blooms for a very short time, its seeds or seed pods can be used both in the kitchen and for decorative purposes.

The seeds of the spinster in the green can be used as a spice like black cumin

Jungfer im Grünen vs. black cumin

The spinster in the green (Nigella damascena), which is mainly used as an ornamental plant, belongs - like the real black cumin - to the buttercup family (Ranunculaceae), in turn to the black cumin (Nigella). The generic name refers to the color of the black seeds, which are about two to three millimeters in size, since the Latin word "nigellus" means something like "black". Other common names for the virgin in the green are Damascus black cumin, Damascus caraway or garden black cumin.

*Difference between Jungfer im Grünen and real black cumin

The real black cumin (Nigella sativa), on the other hand, is very similar in appearance to the Jungfer im Grünen, but has a completely different taste and properties. The maiden in the green contains the alkaloid damascenine, which is slightly toxic if consumed in excess. Black cumin also tastes slightly like sesame, while the seeds of the virgin are more reminiscent of woodruff in culinary terms.

Seeds of the maiden in the green in the kitchen

In the kitchen, the seeds of the spinster can either be ground or used in a mortar, but only very sparingly due to the risk of poisoning. It is used in the same way as black cumin, although the seeds of the Jungfer im Grünen do not have the same properties. The spinster is particularly popular for desserts.

Jungfer in the countryside in naturopathy

Traditionally, the Jungfer im Grünen is also used in naturopathy, primarily against flatulence, but also for stomach, intestine and gallbladder complaints. In the folk medicine of earlier centuries, the seeds were also used for whooping cough, bronchitis and asthma. However, a medical effect that has been attested in any way could not be proven in clinical studies to date - in contrast to that of real black cumin.

tips

By the way, you can grow the real black cumin - just like the spinster in the green - in your own garden.

Category:

Herbs