Also known as black cumin, nigella, or by its scientific name Nigella sativa, kalonji belongs to the buttercup family of flowering plants.
It grows up to 12 inches (30 cm) tall and produces a fruit with seeds that are used as a flavorful spice in many cuisines.
In addition to its culinary use, kalonji is known for its medicinal properties.
In fact, its use can be traced back several centuries as a natural remedy for everything from bronchitis to diarrhea (1st Trusted Source).