Tucked under my mattress, I first mistook the strange pile for a cluster of insect eggs. The tiny, dark grains, dull yet slightly shiny like miniature pieces of coal, sent a chill down my spine. My mind raced to the worst possibilities.
Curious and slightly terrified, I scooped a few up. They were hard, dry, and clearly not alive. Baffled, I sent a picture to a friend knowledgeable in herbal remedies. Her reply was instant: "Those are kalonji – black cumin seeds. Someone must’ve placed them there intentionally.”
My online search revealed the astonishing truth. For centuries, kalonji seeds have been used as a traditional charm, hidden under mattresses or thresholds to ward off sickness and negative energy, attracting peace and protection instead.
The mystery was solved with a single phone call to my grandmother, who had visited recently. When I asked if she was the one, she chuckled softly. "Ah, you found it? Yes, it’s kalonji. May it keep you safe,” she said. "You’ve been restless lately, and I thought a little protection might help.” What began as a moment of fear transformed into a profound appreciation for her quiet, loving blessing.
