That afternoon, while flipping my mattress and washing the sheets, I noticed a small pile of tiny black grains tucked

into the corner of the bed — dull, shiny, and coal-like. My stomach dropped. Insect eggs? Roaches? The thought made my skin crawl.

I scooped a few onto paper. They were hard and dry — not alive. Confused, I sent a photo to a friend who knows about herbs

and old remedies. Her reply came instantly: “Those are kalonji — black cumin seeds. Someone must’ve put them there on purpose.”

I searched online and discovered that kalonji has been used for centuries as protection, believed to ward

off sickness and negative energy when placed under beds, in doorways, or inside pillows.

The realization stunned me — who would do that? Then I remembered my grandmother’s recent visit. She’s always believed in quiet blessings and traditional ways.

When I called her, she laughed gently.
“Ah, you found it? Yes, it’s kalonji. You’ve seemed uneasy lately. I thought a little protection might help.”

What once felt eerie suddenly felt comforting — a silent act of love hidden beneath my bed.