Is Taramira Also Known as Rocket Salad? Unveiling the Botanical Connection

December 25, 2025 •

3 min read

The botanical classification of Eruca sativa reveals that what is called taramira in the Indian subcontinent is the very same species known as rocket salad, or arugula, in many Western countries. This shared identity under different names highlights the diverse culinary uses of this single, pungent plant across different cultures.

Quick Summary

Taramira, the seeds and oil from the Eruca sativa plant, is botanically identical to the leafy green known as rocket salad or arugula. Different regional names simply refer to the specific parts of the same plant used in various cuisines.

Key Points

Botanical Identity: Taramira, rocket salad, and arugula are all names for the same plant species, Eruca sativa.
Regional Usage: 'Taramira' is used for the seeds and oil in the Indian subcontinent, while 'rocket' is used for the leaves in Western cooking.
Culinary Applications: The oil is primarily used for hair/skin care and pickling, while the leaves are popular in salads, pizzas, and pasta dishes.
Nutritional Value: Both the seeds and leaves are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, but their nutritional profiles differ.
Health Benefits: The plant possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and potential cardiovascular benefits.
Pungent Flavor: The characteristic peppery flavor in both the leaves and oil comes from isothiocyanate compounds.

The Botanical Reality: Taramira, Rocket, and Arugula are One Species

At the heart of the matter lies the scientific classification. All these names—taramira, rocket, and arugula—refer to the plant species Eruca sativa, a member of the mustard family, Brassicaceae. While the names may differ significantly depending on the geography and the part of the plant being used, the underlying botanical origin is the same. This explains the characteristic peppery, pungent flavour common to both the leaves and the oil, which comes from compounds called isothiocyanates.

Regional Names Reflecting Diverse Culinary Traditions

The name 'taramira' is most common in the Indian subcontinent and parts of West Asia, where the plant's seeds and seed oil are primarily utilized. The oil, also known as Jamba oil, is known for its strong, pungent flavor and is used both in traditional medicine and cooking, particularly for pickling. 'Rocket salad' or 'arugula' are widely used in Western cuisine, particularly in Mediterranean and Italian cooking, where the tender, peppery leaves are the star of the dish.

Usage Differences in Cuisine and Remedies

While derived from the same plant, the culinary application of taramira seeds/oil and rocket leaves diverges significantly due to their distinct flavors and textures.

Common uses for taramira oil:

Hair Care: Massaged into the scalp to treat dandruff, promote hair growth, and strengthen hair.
Skin Health: Used topically for soothing skin irritations, thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Cooking: Used as a traditional cooking oil in certain regional cuisines, and added to pickles for its intense flavor.
Traditional Medicine: Utilized for various digestive ailments and as a natural remedy.

Common uses for rocket leaves (arugula):

Salads: A popular ingredient for adding a peppery kick to fresh green salads.
Pizza and Pasta: Often scattered over pizzas and pasta dishes after cooking to add a fresh, pungent flavour.
Sandwiches: Adds a zesty element when layered into sandwiches and wraps.
Sautéing: Can be lightly sautéed with garlic and other vegetables, similar to spinach.

A Comparative Look: Taramira Oil vs. Rocket Leaves

While both offer nutritional benefits, their profiles differ due to their origin (seed vs. leaf) and processing method.


Feature	Taramira Seed Oil	Rocket Leaves (Arugula)
Source	Seeds of Eruca sativa	Leaves of Eruca sativa
Primary Use	Culinary oil, hair/skin care	Fresh leafy green for salads
Flavor	Highly pungent and bitter	Distinctly peppery and slightly spicy
Key Nutrients	Omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin E	Vitamins A, C, and K, calcium, folate, antioxidants
Calories	High (pure oil)	Very low
Regional Name	Taramira, Jamba oil	Rocket, Arugula, Rucola

The Health Benefits of Eruca sativa

Regardless of the form, the Eruca sativa plant provides a range of health benefits attributable to its rich nutrient and phytochemical content.

Key benefits of the Eruca sativa plant include:

Antioxidant Properties: Both the leaves and seeds are rich in antioxidants, which help combat free radicals and support overall cellular health.
Bone Health: The leaves are a good source of Vitamin K and calcium, which are vital for maintaining strong bones.
Cardiovascular Support: Some studies have shown that extracts and oil may support cardiovascular health by reducing blood pressure and lowering cholesterol levels.
Anti-inflammatory Effects: Compounds in the plant, such as isothiocyanates, possess anti-inflammatory properties.
Blood Sugar Management: Research indicates that certain extracts may possess antidiabetic properties, potentially helping to regulate blood sugar levels.

Conclusion: More Than Just a Name

In summary, the answer to the question "Is taramira also known as rocket salad?" is a definitive yes, though the names refer to different uses of the same plant, Eruca sativa. Taramira typically refers to the seeds and the pungent oil extracted from them, a practice common in South Asia and West Asia. Rocket salad, on the other hand, refers to the peppery, tender leaves favoured in Western salads and cooking. This botanical link highlights how a single plant can take on different identities based on cultural traditions, agricultural focus, and culinary applications. So the next time you enjoy a peppery rocket salad, remember its close, oily relative, taramira, and the shared heritage that connects them both.

Learn more about the fascinating world of herbs and botanical names at Gardening Know How.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, both taramira seeds and rocket salad leaves come from the same plant species, Eruca sativa. Taramira refers to the seeds and their oil, while rocket refers to the edible leaves.

Taramira oil, extracted from the seeds, has a very strong, pungent, and bitter flavor, often used in specific cooking methods like pickling. Rocket salad leaves have a distinct peppery and slightly spicy taste that is more suitable for fresh salads and toppings.

Rocket salad is also commonly known as arugula, rucola, roquette, and garden rocket, particularly in Mediterranean and North American cuisine.

Taramira oil is traditionally used for various non-culinary applications, such as scalp and hair massages to promote hair growth and combat dandruff, and topically on the skin for its anti-inflammatory properties.

While it is an oil from the same plant, taramira oil is generally not recommended for use in regular salad dressings due to its extremely bitter and pungent flavor. Stick to the leaves for a peppery salad flavour.

Yes, rocket salad is very nutritious. It is low in calories and packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron, and powerful antioxidants.

Yes, the Eruca sativa plant, in its various forms, offers health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, and potential support for cardiovascular health and blood sugar regulation.