Chasteberry Seed
A Strong clinical evidenceVitex agnus-castus
Chasteberry dry extract may help with symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS); regular use for 3 months is recommended for effect.
Forms of use
Seed
Seeds eaten whole, ground or brewed.
15 herbs · 5 with clinical evidence (A/B) · 8 not marked avoid in pregnancy
Black Seed
B Limited clinical evidenceNigella sativa
A spice seed for which small studies saw modest falls in blood sugar, cholesterol and blood pressure. Kitchen amounts are safe.
Cumin
B Limited clinical evidenceCuminum cyminum
An essential spice for meatballs and pulses. Small clinical studies saw mild benefit for bloating, IBS symptoms and weight control.
Anise
T Traditional usePimpinella anisum
Aniseed tea is traditionally used for mild digestive complaints such as bloating and wind, and for cough that comes with a cold.
Fennel
T Traditional useFoeniculum vulgare
Fennel seed tea is traditionally used for bloating and wind, for mild period cramps and for cough that comes with a cold.
Fenugreek
T Traditional useTrigonella foenum-graecum
Fenugreek seed is traditionally used before meals for temporary loss of appetite and as a poultice for minor skin inflammation.
Milk Thistle
T Traditional useSilybum marianum
Milk thistle fruit is traditionally used to support liver function, after a doctor has ruled out serious disease, and for indigestion.
Pumpkin Seed
T Traditional useCucurbita pepo
Pumpkin seed is traditionally used for urinary symptoms of benign prostate enlargement or overactive bladder, after a doctor rules out serious disease.
Coriander
T Traditional useCoriandrum sativum
A spice used both as seed and leaf. The seed is traditionally used for indigestion, wind and bloating; blood sugar effects are seen only in animals.
Okra Seed
C Laboratory / animal evidenceAbelmoschus esculentus
A nourishing seed with fibre, protein and mucilage. There is no scientific evidence for its popular use for knee pain or joint fluid.
Sesame
B Limited clinical evidenceSesamum indicum
The seed behind tahini and simit. It contains healthy fats, protein and lignans; small studies saw modest falls in cholesterol and blood pressure.
Mustard Seed
T Traditional useBrassica spp. / Sinapis alba
A seed used as a spice and condiment. Crushed into a poultice, its warming effect is traditionally used for muscle and joint pain and chest colds.
Buckthorn Seed
T Traditional useRhamnus cathartica
Anthraquinone-containing fruits with a very strong laxative effect. Used only short term and at low doses for occasional constipation.
Poppy Seed
C Laboratory / animal evidencePapaver somniferum
Poppy seed is a nourishing seed with calcium, magnesium and healthy fats. There is no evidence for its use for sleep or calming.