Qizah (Black Seed & Sesame Paste) ā A Traditional Sunnah-Inspired Superfood
Qizah (ŁŁŲ²ŁŲ) 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.
š 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.
š± Black Seed (Habbatus Sawda)
The Prophet ļ·ŗ said:
āUse the black seed, for indeed it contains a cure for every disease except death.ā
(Sahih al-Bukhari & Sahih Muslim)
This alone gives Qizah immense significance, as black seed is its primary component.
š¾ 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
šÆ Honey
Allah ļ·» says in the Qurāan:
āIn it (honey) is healing for people.ā
(Surah An-Nahl 16:69)
Thus, Qizah combines three Sunnah-approved, healing foods into one powerful preparation.
šæ 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 chemicalsājust pure, natural nourishment.
š± 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.
šÆ 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.
ā ļø 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.
š 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.
šæ Final Thoughts
Qizah is more than just a foodāit 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
Allah ļ·» says in the Qurāan:
Daily Wellness:
šæ Why Dates Are Special in Tibb-e-Nabawi
ā 1. Instant Natural Energy
ā 6. Great for Pregnancy & Childbirth
ā 1. Powerful Digestive Aid