Garden cress seeds (Haloon seeds)

Garden cress seeds, also known as Halim seeds, Aliv seeds, or Chandrasura (among other regional names), are the seeds of the garden cress plant.  

Here is a description:

• Botanical Name: Lepidium sativum  

• Appearance: They are typically very tiny, oval-shaped, with a pointed triangular end.  

• Color: They have a characteristic reddish-brown color.  

• Size: They are quite small, often measuring about 3-4 mm long and 1-2 mm wide.  

• Taste/Flavor: The seeds and the garden cress herb are known for having a peppery, tangy, or slightly pungent flavor, similar to mustard and watercress.  

• Key Property (when soaked): When soaked in water, garden cress seeds develop a mucilaginous gel (they swell up and become slimy/gummy), which is one of their notable characteristics.  

• Nutritional Profile: They are highly nutritious, being an excellent source of iron, folate, fiber, protein, and various vitamins and minerals, notably Vitamin C and Vitamin K.  

• Uses: They are widely consumed for their nutritional and traditional medicinal properties (e.g., to help with iron deficiency, promote lactation, and aid digestion). They can be eaten soaked, sprouted, ground into a powder, or added to salads, drinks, soups, and baked goods.