Qizah (قِزْح) is a traditional Middle Eastern preparation made from Nigella sativa (Black Seed / Kalonji) blended with sesame seed paste (tahini), often combined with pure honey. This powerful combination has been consumed for centuries across Palestine, the Arab world, and parts of Africa as both a nutritious food and a natural remedy.
Qizah beautifully represents the Islamic approach to nourishment: simple ingredients, deep benefits, and balance.
📖 Qizah & Its Roots in Sunnah Nutrition
While the word Qizah itself is not directly mentioned in Hadith, its core ingredients are firmly rooted in the Sunnah.
🌱 Black Seed (Habbatus Sawda)
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Use the black seed, for indeed it contains a cure for every disease except death.”
(Sahih al-Bukhari & Sahih Muslim)
This alone gives Qizah immense significance, as black seed is its primary component.
🌾 Sesame Seeds
Sesame seeds were widely consumed in the Arab world during the Prophetic era and are praised in Unani medicine for:
Strength
Nourishment
Energy
🍯 Honey
Allah ﷻ says in the Qur’an:
“In it (honey) is healing for people.”
(Surah An-Nahl 16:69)
Thus, Qizah combines three Sunnah-approved, healing foods into one powerful preparation.
🌿 Composition of Qizah
Traditional Qizah typically contains:
Finely ground black seed (Nigella sativa)
Sesame seed paste (tahini)
Pure natural honey
No artificial additives, preservatives, or chemicals—just pure, natural nourishment.
🌱 Traditional Benefits of Qizah
1. Strengthens Immunity
Black seed is known for supporting:
Immune balance
Resistance against illness
Overall vitality
When combined with honey, Qizah becomes a natural immune tonic.
2. Supports Digestive Health
Traditionally used to:
Improve digestion
Reduce bloating
Support gut health
Sesame seeds provide healthy fats that soothe and nourish the digestive system.
3. Boosts Energy & Stamina
Qizah has long been consumed by:
Laborers
Travelers
Students
It provides slow, sustained energy without spikes or crashes.
4. Nourishes the Body Deeply
Rich in:
Healthy fats
Natural sugars
Essential nutrients
Qizah is especially beneficial for:
Weakness
Recovery
General body nourishment
5. Supports Brain & Mental Focus
Sesame and black seed together are traditionally believed to:
Support memory
Improve concentration
Nourish the nervous system
This makes Qizah ideal for students and those engaged in intense mental work.
🍯 How Qizah Is Traditionally Consumed
Qizah is usually taken:
Mixed with honey as a paste
As a morning tonic
Spread lightly on bread
In small daily amounts (moderation is key)
A little goes a long way.
⚠️ Guidelines & Moderation
Consume in small quantities
Not recommended in excess due to its warming nature
Best taken in the morning
Suitable for adults and older children
Consult a knowledgeable practitioner if you have specific health conditions
Islam always encourages balance and moderation in food.
🌙 Spiritual & Cultural Significance
Qizah reflects:
The wisdom of traditional Muslim diets
Reliance on Sunnah-based nourishment
Food as a means of healing, not indulgence
It is a reminder that healing often lies in simple, natural foods blessed by Allah.
🌿 Final Thoughts
Qizah is more than just a food—it is a heritage recipe rooted in Sunnah ingredients and Islamic wellness philosophy. In a world filled with processed products, Qizah stands as a symbol of pure, intentional nourishment.
Reviving such foods helps us reconnect with:
The Sunnah
Natural healing
Conscious eating