Damascus nigella: beneficial properties and features of plant care
It is not often that a plant can attract attention to itself in such a way that it is difficult to “take your eyes off” it. Damask nigella (or, as it is also called, Nigella) is one of these. If you see it during the flowering period, you can simply forget about everything in the world. Her flowers are so beautiful and attractive.
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A little about the flower
As mentioned above, nigella is not the only name of the flower. The main name that can be found in most botanical encyclopedias is Nigella. This is what many scientists call the plant.
Basically, nigella is grown to improve the appearance of the yard; it is planted along fences, borders, etc.
Nigella's flowers are very beautiful. Their main feature is fluffiness, and the flowers can be of different shades: pink, blue, blue, interspersed with white spots, etc. The plant received one of its names (nigella) because of the interesting shape of the seeds. Surprisingly, they are black and have an unusual ovoid shape with three edges.
The stem of the plant reaches approximately 40 centimeters in height. And that’s why Nigella is not planted along high hedges or to hide any defects in the yard. It is planted solely for beauty and only where there is a lot of light.
Application of flower
It will be a surprise to many, but nigella is used not only for beauty, that is, to transform the garden. It also has a lot of useful properties that make it possible to use:
- For decorating winter bouquets. With the correct collection of plant flowers and proper drying, you can make winter bouquets even more beautiful. To do this, you need to cut the stems and dry the flowers exclusively in a dark place. Under no circumstances should the plant be dried in the light, as the stem will immediately turn yellow.
- For storing clothes. For this purpose, exclusively Nigella seeds are used, as they have a specific odor and can repel moths.
- For preparing some dishes. The seeds of the plant are mainly used. Many people add seasoning such as cumin to pilaf. But few people know that cumin is nothing more than dried nigella seeds.
- For baking. The seeds of the plant are also called black cumin.
- For the preparation of medicines.
There are many areas of application for this plant, which is why it is considered universal and people try to grow it in summer cottages.
Medicinal properties of nigella
It was said above that Nigella is used to prepare medicines. Usually, this is done to alleviate the condition of diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, as well as liver diseases.
- Laxative. This effect from the plant is not strong, but it can still be used to relieve the condition during the initial stages of constipation.
- Diuretic, this is especially important for diseases associated with difficult removal of harmful substances from the body.
- Anthelmintic.Even in ancient times, the plant was used to remove worms, which caused great harm to humans and reduced their quality of life.
- Choleretic, which is very important when problems with the gastrointestinal tract occur
- Relief of pain, especially during menstruation and some gynecological diseases
- Increasing milk production in nursing mothers.
- Improving sleep, as well as eliminating such ailments as insomnia.
Sometimes the plant is used to alleviate the condition of kidney stones. In addition, special substances contained in the plant can significantly alleviate asthma attacks, as well as reduce their number.
Apply nigella for medicinal purposes It is possible only on the recommendation of a doctor, since despite its relative safety, in some cases its use is prohibited.
Growing a plant
Due to the fact that the plant has a lot of useful properties, many gardeners try to plant it. And not only because the flowers are very beautiful and can transform any area, but also because Nigella can be used for medicinal purposes.
Experienced gardeners advise growing Nigella:
- In open places with a lot of light and sun. Nigella does not tolerate moisture and shade. Therefore, you need to select a place so that the plantings do not accidentally end up in the shade of trees
- In light, but at the same time well-fertilized and nutritious soils. Separately, it must be said that the plant does not tolerate mulching of the soil.
- With moderate watering. Like any other plant, nigella does not like to be constantly filled with water, or even left without moisture. You need to carefully monitor the condition of the soil and water only when it is actually dry.But you shouldn’t let it develop until cracks appear in the soil, which indicates a complete lack of moisture in it.
- No excessive fertilization. And although the flower prefers fertilized and nutritious soil, it is best to use organic matter for this.
If you follow all the above rules, then you can grow mono on your site. beautiful flowers, from which neighbors and guests will not be able to take their eyes off.
Plant care
Many gardeners note that Nigella is not a whimsical plant, the main thing is to plant it from the beginning
to where he feels comfortable. To do this you need to choose a sunny place.
Very rarely Nigella is damaged by pests, so there is no need to spray it with chemicals.
In addition, the plant easily tolerates frost and heat, which is very important for a sharply continental climate, where one spring day it can be 20 degrees Celsius, and at night the temperature drops to -3 degrees.
As for the site, it is best to choose the place where flowers or other plants used to grow. This needs to be done this way because Nigella loves nutritious soil, but it cannot be fertilized often.
Nigella is imprisoned using seeds. They can be purchased at any specialized store, or assembled yourself. The main thing is to be on time, as nigella fades quickly.
In order for the plant to take root better and not be caught by unexpected frosts or strong moisture, it is best to start growing it at home. To do this, you need to take the seeds and plant them in a pot. After Nigella has reached 10 centimeters in height, she can be planted.
It is better to prepare the soil in advance, as it should be moderately moist, and the location of the flowerbed should also be selected in advance.For those who don't like to start seedlings in advance, simply scattering seeds is a great method. To do this, you need to loosen the soil well, and only then throw the seeds into it.
Separately, it should be noted that the collected seeds, stored in special boxes, can be kept at home for about two years. Their value will not decrease, and they will retain all their beneficial properties.
Damask nigella is a very beautiful plant that will easily decorate any garden. And it's easy to care for. Just water it on time and pull out the weeds periodically.
Flowering of Nigella Damascus on video:
Interesting information about the vegetable garden
