A few dried seeds are placed on embers or dedicated charcoal, in a well-ventilated location, following the ancient practice still observed in certain regions of Central Asia and the Middle East. This method remains external and should never lead to ingestion of the seeds or concentrated smoke. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
In certain folk traditions, a small piece of root was boiled at length in water, obtaining a preparation reserved for external use or very small supervised quantities. Given the potential toxicity, this preparation must imperatively be supervised by a qualified professional. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
The dried and crushed stem was traditionally macerated to extract pigments used in dyeing, a strictly artisanal and non-bodily use. This preparation is not intended for use on the skin or internally. Dosage must be validated with a healthcare professional or recognized pharmacopoeia before use.
Peganum harmala grows wild in the steppes and arid lands of Central Asia, the Middle East and the Mediterranean basin; dried seeds can sometimes be found at certain specialized herbalists or Middle Eastern product shops, under the name harmel.