Niger seeds are obtained from Guizotia abyssinica, a plant native to the Ethiopian highlands and widely cultivated in India and parts of Africa. The seeds contain 30–40% oil, which is valued for its light colour, pleasant taste, and nutritional profile. Niger seed oil is widely used for cooking, especially in rural areas, and is also blended with other edible oils. It is rich in linoleic acid, making it a good source of essential fatty acids.

Beyond food use, Niger oil is used in soaps, paints, and traditional lamps as an illuminant. The seeds themselves are a popular ingredient in bird feed across Europe and North America. Niger cultivation supports smallholder farmers, often on marginal land with minimal inputs, contributing to rural livelihoods. As demand for specialty oils and natural feed ingredients grows, Niger seeds are gaining attention in niche global markets.