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Botanical Oils

BLACK SEED (Nigella sativa) appropriately known as the "seed of blessing" is considered to be one of the greatest healing herbs of all times. It is an excellent natural medicine used for millenniums to treat a variety of conditions related to respiratory health, skin, stomach and intestinal disorders, kidney & liver function, circulatory and immune system support and to maintain and improve overall health.

The plants of Kalonji are found throughout India in the form of bushes. The height of the plant is approximately half a meter. It possesses blue flowers. It is originated from Turkey and Italy. Later on, it was brought to Asia by physicians and cultivated in India. Now days, it is cultivated throughout India, whereas it is wildly grown too. Seeds are triangular in shape, black in color and possess a severe pungent smell, contain a considerable amount of oil. It is incorrect that Arabs learnt its use from Greeks, because before the advent of Islam in middle east no description is found on record about it’s use. It’s therapeutic use was initiated after the advent of Islam, since, Prophet Muhammad (Pbuh) mentioned its therapeutic efficacy and potential of cure.

Observations of the scholars of Hadith reveal that Nigella Sativa is equally effective for the diseases due to heat and cold. Zahbi states that kalonji removes the obstruction of any part of the body, expels the gases and strengthens the stomach. It is Emmenagogue, Lactogogue and Diuretic. It is an Anti-Helminthic, if taken with vinegar. It is useful in chronic cold. Inhalation of its smell is useful in common cold. The oil of Kalonji is effective in Alopecia. Half tea-spoonful, if boiled in water and taken, is helpful in Asthma and diffuses the toxic effects of Bee and Wasps.

Continuous use of kalonji is effective in mad dog biting. Fumigation of kalonji is useful in respiratory diseases.
It is useful in paralysis, Facial Palsy, Migraine, Amnesia and Palpitation. It is also an expectorant and antipyretic. It normalizes the secretions of stomach and pancreas. This phenomenon is very much effective and significant in the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus.  It expels the kidney and urinary bladder stones, if taken with the syrup of honey. It is effective in jaundice also if taken with milk. It’s powder if taken with water is effective in Hemorrhoids. If Kalonji seeds are boiled in vinegar and this solution is applied on Gums and Teeth, it removes the inflammation of the gums and relieves the pain also. It is also reported that its fine powder is effective if applied in early stages of cataract.  Kalonji is also used in skin disorders. The oil of the seeds is also effective in earache.

Chemical Composition - seeds contain 1.5% volatile oil, while 37.5% Non volatile oil. In addition to this Albumen, Sugar, Organic acids, Glucoside Melanthin Metarbin and bitter substances are also found. The Glucoside is toxic in nature, hence the use of Kalonji in large doses and prolonged use might be harmful.

If it is taken with Qust Sheering after breakfast and Dinner, it is effective in chronic dysentery and Asthma. Qust Sheering is a good medicine for sexual debility, but if it is taken with Kalonji seeds and Habburrashad, it becomes more fortified. Modern up to date trials have proved that Kalonji seeds alone or in combination with other drugs are highly effective in Diabetes Mellitus, vitiligo and other skin ailments.

(* Director, Shah Faisal Institute of Health & Medical Sciences, Kasganj-207123,UP)




Primary Properties of Black Seed

As the evidence presented in this section will show, it is quite probable that as medical science increasingly learns more about black seed, one or more of its more active ingredients may become combined into a pharmacy prescription for specific conditions. In the event that this does occur, it is also likely that this particular extract of black seed will be chemically compounded and thus become a more potent medicine.

While it may be argued that chemical additives may increase black seed's effectiveness in
treating specific conditions, the healing principles of black seed in its pure, natural form should also be taken into account

Black seed, in its complete, natural form, acts on the principle of assisting the body's
own natural healing process in overcoming illness or maintaining health. It works on the
part or system of the body affected without disturbing its natural balance elsewhere.
The effect of black seed's combined nutitrional and medicinal value is that not only does
it help relieve the current condition at hand, but also helps the body build further
resistance against future ailments or disease.

While historical evidence suggests black seed's potential use for a wide variety of ailments, we have limited our descriptions of its primary healing properties here to the most recent research
                               

Findings on black seed.

1. Nutritional value, Black seed is rich in nutritional values.

2. Immune system strengthening

3. Anti-histamine activity

4. Anti-tumor principles

5. Anti-bacterial

6. Anti-inflammatory

7. Promotes lactation


7. Nutritional Value
Black seed is rich in nutritional values.
                      
7. Monosaccharides (single molecule sugars) in the form of glucose, rhamnose, xylose, and arabinose are found in the black seed.  The black seed contains a non-starch polysaccharide component which is a useful source of dietary fiber.
                                      
1. It is rich in fatty acids, particularly the unsaturated and essential fatty acids (Alpha Linoleic acid (omega 3) and Linoleic acid (Omega 6). Essential fatty acids cannot be manufactured by the body alone, and therefore we acquire these from food.

1. Fifteen amino acids make up the protein content of the black seed, including eight of the nine essential amino acids. Essential amino acids cannot be synthesized within our body in sufficient quantities and are thus required from our diet.

∑ Black seed contains Arginine which is essential for infant growth.

∑ Chemical analysis has further revealed that the black seed contains carotene, which is converted by the liver into vitamin A, the vitamin known for its anti-cancer activity.

∑ The black seed is also a source of calcium, iron, sodium, and potassium. Required only in small amounts by the body, these elements' main function is to act as essential cofactors in various enzyme functions.


2. Immune system strengthening
Studies begun just over a decade ago suggest that if used on an ongoing basis, black seed can play an important role to enhance human immunity, particularly in immuno-compromised patients.

Studies:

In 1959, the active ingredient in black seed, crystalline Nigellone, was first isolated and identified as providing many health benefits. Clinical trials have validated the efficacy of black seed in promoting health and wellness.

In 1986, Drs. El-Kadi and Kandil conducted a study with human volunteers to test the efficiency of black seed as a natural immune enhancer.

The first group of volunteers received black seed capsules (1 gram twice daily) for four weeks and the second group were given a placebo. A complete lymphocyte count carried out in all volunteers before and four weeks after administration of black seed and the placebo revealed that the majority of subjects who took black seed displayed a 72% increase in helper to suppresser T-cells ratio, as well as an increase in natural killer cell functional activity. The control group who received the placebo experienced a net decline in ratio of 7%. They reported, "These findings may be of great practical significance since a natural immune enhancer like the black seed could play an important role in the treatment of cancer, AIDS, and other disease conditions associated with immune deficiency states."

These results were confirmed by a study published in the Saudi Pharmaceutical Journal in 1993 by Dr. Basil Ali and his colleagues from the College of Medicine at Kin Faisal University.

In the field of AIDS research specifically, tests carried out by Dr. Haq on human volunteers at the Department of Biological and Medical Research Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (1997) showed that black seed enhanced the ratio between helper T-cells and suppresser T-cells by 55% with a 30% average enhancement of the natural killer (NK) cell activity.

3. Anti-histamine activity
Histamine is a substance released by bodily tissues, sometimes creating allergic reactions and is associated with conditions such as bronchial asthma.

In 1960, scientists Badr-El-Din and Mahfouz found that dimer dithymoquinone isolated from black seed's volatile oil, under the name of "Nigellone," and given by mouth to some patients suffering from bronchial asthma, suppressed the symptoms of the condition in the
majority of patients.

Following the results of this early study, crystalline nigellone was administered to children and adults in the treatment of bronchial asthma with effective results and no sign of toxicity. It was observed, however, that although effective, crystalline nigellone displayed a delayed reaction.

In 1993, Nirmal Chakravarty, M.D., conducted a study to see if this delay could be attributed to the possibility of crystalline nigellone being an inhibitory agent on histamine. His hypothesis proved correct. Dr. Chakravarti's study found that the actual mechanism behind the suppressive effect of crystalline nigellone on histamine is that crystalline nigellone inhibits protein kinase C, a substance known to trigger the release of histamine. In addition, his study showed that crystalline nigellone decreased the uptake of calcium in mast cells, which also inhibits histamine release.

The importance of these results are that people who suffer from bronchial asthma and other allergic diseases may benefit from taking crystalline nigellone.

4. Anti-tumor principles
A study of black seed's potential anti-tumor principles by the Amala Research Center in Amala Nagar, Kerala (India) in 1991 lent further impetus to Dr. Chakravarty's suggestion for the possible use of black seed in the treatment of cancer.

Using an active principle of fatty acids derived from black seed, studies with Swiss albino mice showed that this active principle could completely inhibit the development of a common type of cancer cells called Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC). A second common type of cancer cells, Dalton's lymphoma ascites (DLA) cells were also used.

Mice which had received the EAC cells and black seed remained normal without any tumor formation, illustrating that the active principle was 100% effective in preventing EAC tumor development. Results in mice who received DLA cells and black seed showed that the active principle had inhibited tumor development by 50% less compared to mice not given the active principle.

The study concluded, "It is evident that the active principle isolated from nigella sativa seeds is a potent anti-tumor agent, and the constituent long chain fatty acid may be the main active component."

Anti-angiogenic activity of nigella sativa plant extract in cancer therapy
(Research abstract).
AUTHOR: Medenica R, Janssens J, Tarasenko A, Lazovic G, Corbitt W, Powell D, Jocic D, Mujovic
ADDRESS: International Immuno-Biology Research Laboratory, South Carolina, 29926
 SOURCE: Proc Annu Meet Am Assoc Cancer Res; 38:A1377 1997
 
ABSTRACT: Nigella sativa [NS], or 'black cumin', an annual herb belonging to the family Ranunculaceae, has strong immunomodulatory and interferon-like activity. We confirm that our extract of NS inhibits cancer and endothelial cell progression, decreases the production of the angiogenic protein-fibroblastic growth factor (FGF) made by tumor cells, and inhibits growth factor for endothelial cells. FGF-1 and FGF-2 are both localized to myoepithelial and to epithelial cells.

FGF is an autocrine growth factor developed in our immortalized human mammary epithelial cells. FGF-2, present in aggressive breast cancer, was suppressed by NS. In addition, our breast cancer cell line contains FGF 1-4. Tumor growth is angiogenesis dependent and neo-vascularization is a crucial determinant of the metastatic potential of the tumor. Formed vessels in tumors are hyper-permeable to plasma protein, due to gaps in the endothelial lining. These vascular abnormalities could facilitate entry of the tumor cells into the circulation.

We studied breast cancer, prostate cancer and melanoma cells for acidic fibroblast growth factor which we isolated and suppressed by NS. We attempted to recapitulate early angiogenic evidence in vitro by developing a model of endothelial growth migration and extra cellular matrix interaction. Our in vitro assay revealed that stimulated endothelial cells can produce degradative proteinase and invade the extracellular matrix similarly to tumor cells. Moreover, this model system indicated that a fine tuned balance between proteinase and proteinase inhibitor regulates vascular morphogenesis and invasion. Migrating endothelial cells produce Type 4 collagenase (member of the matrix metalloproteinase family) and serineproteinase. We demonstrated that specific inhibitors of Type 4 collagenase, general metalloproteinase inhibitors and serineproteinase inhibitors blocked endothelial cell invasion of the extra cellular matrix. These inhibitors blocked tumor cell invasion in the same assay. NS was compared with these factors and shown to have the same action. The endothelial cells in culture were reverted to a non-angiogenic state when the angiogenic stimulus is neutralized by NS.

Conclusion:  The activity of NS blocked the tumor growth and dissemination in metastasis and have remarkable promises for clinical use.

5. Anti-bacterial
In 1989, a report appeared in the Pakistan Journal of Pharmacy about anti-fungal properties of the volatile oil of black seed. 1992 saw researchers at the Department of Pharmacy, University of Dhaka, Bangladesh, conducting a study in which the antibacterial activity of
the volatile oil of black seed was compared with five antibiotics: ampicillin, tetracycline, cotrimoxazole, gentamicin, and nalidixic acid.

The oil proved to be more effective against many strains of bacteria, including those known to be highly resistant to drugs: V. cholera, E. coli (a common infectious agent found in undercooked meats), and all strains of Shigella spp., except Shigella dysentriae. Most strains of Shigella have been shown to rapidly become resistant to commonly used antibiotics and chemotheraputic agents.

In light of the above research findings, it is of interest that homeopaths have long been known to make a tincture from the black seed for digestive and bowel complaints. Traditionally, the black seed is still used to help relieve vomiting and diarrhea, as well as flatulent colic, and to help counteract the griping action of purgatives (e.g. certain laxatives, fruits such as apricots when over consumed).

6. Anti-inflammatory
As early as 1960, Professor El-Dakhakny reported that black seed oil has an anti-inflammatory effect and that it could be useful for relieving the effects of arthritis. In 1995, a group of scientists at the Pharmacology Research Laboratories, Department of Pharmacy, Kings College, London, decided to test the effectiveness of the fixed oil of Nigella sativa and its derivative, thymoquinine, as an anti-inflammatory agent.  Their study found that the oil inhibited eicosanoid generation and demonstrated anti-oxidant activity in cells.  The inhibition of eicasanoid generation, however, was higher than could be expected from thymoquinone alone.

Their study suggested that other compounds within the oil might also be responsible for the enhanced anti-inflammatory reactions in cells.  The scientists speculated that the unusual C20:2 unsaturated fatty acids contained in black seed were possibly responsible for
boosting the oil's effectiveness.  

In 1997, studies conducted at the Microbiological Unit of the Research Center, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, found that externally in an ointment form, the anti-inflammatory activity of the black seed was found to be in the same range as that of other similar commercial products. The tests also demonstrated that the black seed is
non-allergenic.

7. Promotes lactation
A study by Agarwhal (1979) showed that black seed oil increases the milk output of breastfeeding mothers.  A literature search by the University of Potchefstroom (1989), including biological abstracts, revealed that black seed's capacity to increase the milk flow of nursing mothers could be attributed to a combination of lipid portion and hormonal structures found in the black seed.

Published Reports

Published Scientific Reports confirm that Black Seed has an astounding array of health benefits

Increases immune function.
~ U.S. Patents Sections, Antiviral Agents Bulletin #5,482,711

Black seed stimulates bone marrow and immune cells and raises the interferon production, protects normal cells against cell destroying effects of viruses, destroys tumor cells and raises the number of anti-bodies producing B cells.
~ Cancer Immuno-biology Laboratory ,South Carolina

Black seed contains valuable unsaturated fatty acids, for example Linoleic and Gammalinolic acids get into the organism. By that it possible to reach a synthesis of important immune regulating substances derived as from Prostaglandin E1. Linoleic acid stabilizes the cell membranes and Prostaglandin has the effect of inhibiting inflammation. By that the immune reactions are stopped which cause the illnesses and which otherwise could be the start of many chronic illnesses like acne and hayfever right up to cancer.  
~ Dr. Peter Schleicher Immunologist, Munich, Germany

Black seed proves to have an anti-histamine, anti-oxidant, anti-biotic, anti-mycotic and broncho-dilating effect.  
~ Study of Black seed oil on humans, American Scientists

Black seed is truly a remarkable herb that has been used for over 3000 years. It contains over 100 valuable components. It is a significant source of essential fatty acids, proteins, carbohydrates and other vitamins and minerals. " The seeds are also rich in sterols, especially beta-sitosterol, which is known to have anti-carcinogenic activity".
~ Dr. Michael Tierra L.AC. O.M.D

Black seed tests prove to be genuine universal remedy.
~ Pharmaceutical newspaper, Wissenschaftlicher Text

Black seed is a valuable source of protein, carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, vitamins A, B1, B2, C and niacin as well as minerals such as calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium, selenium, magnesium and zinc.
~ Phytochemicals of Nigella sativa seeds. Food Chemistry







USES

The most pertinent point to be made about black seed is that it should be regarded as
part of an overall holistic approach to health and ideally should be incorporated into one's
everyday lifestyle.  In this way, the many nutritional and healing properties contained in
the seed can help build the body's immune system over time, supplying it with the
optimum resources it needs to help prevent and fight illness.


1.  Black seed as a daily health supplement
Most medicines work best when given a chance to run their full course, and this too, is the case with black seed.  In cognizance of its substantial nutritional components, as well as its specific medicinal properties, the body's ability to maintain health and promote healing of a lasting nature is best increased through regular use of black seed.

2.  Black seed as an energy source
Ibn Sina (980-1037), in describing the black seed as that which "stimulates the body's energy and helps recovery from fatigue or dis-spiritedness," still holds true for Tibb (Islamic Medicine)  health practitioners today.  The rich nutritional value contained in black seed as outlined by scientific analysis of black seed, also points to it as a great source of energy.

From the Tibb health perspective, the black seed has an ability to maintain and restore body heat.  Our western diet, predominantly made up of cold foods -- ice in our drinks, yogurt, pizza, cheese -- all deplete the innate heat our body requires in order to optimally function.  Tibb holds the view that a reduced metabolic rate (innate heat) is the cause of most illnesses.  The body, in losing energy, also loses its ability to fight off toxins, resulting in a greater chance of contracting illness.

3.  Black seed and other medication
Black seed may be used in conjunction with conventional or other forms of natural medicine.  It is not recommended that black seed be used exclusively in the treatment of serious medical complaints which may require more immediate action.  For example, conditions like bronchitis sometimes require conventional antibiotics to prevent the condition from becoming more severe.  However, black seed may be used as a therapeutic aid together with this and other forms of treatment to help counteract any side effects experienced from the use of antibiotics or other potent, chemically based medicines.

4.  Pregnancy and lactation
The black seed is not recommended during pregnancy, however during lactation.  It is an excellent form of added nutrition for both mother and the growing child while its immune system boosting properties serve as a natural, safe way to build resistance against illness.  In addition, as studies have shown, black seed helps increase milk production during breastfeeding.

5.  Initial trials have shown that black seed may have an ability to increase the male sperm count.

6.  Babies and toddlers
In addition to its many nutritional components, black seed contains carotene, which is essential for infant growth.  During the toddler years, black seed provides children with all the energy they require for this active stage of life.  Regular usage of black seed, which increases its immune system strengthening effect on the body, will decrease the length and severity of natural childhood illnesses, particularly during winter when children are most susceptible to contracting colds and flu.

6. Black seed for the elderly person
With its rich nutritional, energy-giving value, in combination with immune system strengthening properties, black seed is an ideal health supplement for the elderly person.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before you check out our FAQs, we recommend that you check out our Black Seed section.

What makes Golden Lotus brand so good?
We strive to provide quality ingredients in all of our products. We add nothing harmful to you or the environment. Our seeds are Organic or ethically wild-crafted; clean and non-irradiated. Our black seed oil is 100% pure, cold-pressed un-diluted and without the use of solvents. We guarantee our products or your money back!

How does Black Seed Benefit?

The majority of our health problems have the same causes- infection by micro-organisms such as bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi. When using clinical (allopathic medicines) each symptom is treated individually and usually with synthetic chemically manufactured medicines that contain alcohol and other harmful ingredients. Black seed  is effective at treating the body as a whole and  fights the actual cause of the symptoms. Black seed  regulates too weak or too strong reactions of the immune system and is excellent for treating chronic, allergic and hormonal diseases.  

It uses are many as well as its benefit.  Black seed support metabolism, improve digestion, and lowers blood sugar levels. It is used to dispel worms and parasites from intestinal track. It is useful in soothing bronchitis and coughs, increase body tone, stimulates menstrual periods, increases the flow of breast milk, provides quick energy, increases sperm count, calms the nervous system, encourages hair growth and retards hair fall out,
prevents skin wrinkling, and much more. Learn More: Black Seed Info.

How is Black Seed Used?

Black seed can be used in many ways.  As a dietary supplement we recommend one teaspoon once or twice a day.  The correct dosage is dependent on whether you are using it for prevention or treatment of acute problems.

In one particular study in Munich, 600 allergy patients were given 500mg of black seed oil twice a day for 3 months.  A clear improvement was observed in 85% of the patients.  The oil can be mixed into any cold liquid or yogurt. It can also be applied topically for arthritis, eczema, psoriasis,and scalp ointment. The herb can be mixed with any hot or cold beverage or food. It can be used as a spice in vegetable or meat recipes.  The benefits are obtained through whichever way you choose.

Is Black Seed an Ayurvedic medicine?

We consider Back seed Prophetic Medicine since it was recommended by the Prophet Muhammad over 1400 years ago.  He in his divine wisdom said "Use this Black seed, it has a cure for every disease except death.Although Black seed does follow the Ayurveda theory with respect to the bitter alkaloid component, nigelline.  

According to the Ayurveda Theory bitter components work cooling, light and dry; after consumption they are sharp.   It lowers fever, cleanses and dries excretions out.  It gives tone to tissue and strengthens it, and even helps by skin irritations.  It stimulates the appetite and metabolism and helps digestive problems.  Bitter components also make it possible to eliminate excess acids


Why is Black Seed considered a Universal Remedy?

The Prophet Muhammad said in his divine wisdom about the Black seed" Use this Black
seed, it has a cure for every disease except death".
Black seed unquestionably has a positive and stabilizing effect on the human immune system which.  Moreover, since diseases are the result of defective immune systems, it is fair to assume that the beneficial effects go beyond skin disorders and allergies. Since the immune system has a direct or indirect effect on all the systems of the body, when you are infected by any disease, the power of the immunity system affects the cure of this disease.

Are there any side effects?

Black seed is a safe and effective herb that can be used by almost anyone.  No irritations or side effects are caused when the right dose is correctly applied. Its benefits are obtained through consistent use,the effects are medium to long term. Diabetes is useful in the treatment of diabetes mellitus or diabetes caused by an allergy.  However it is recommended that the treatment be supervises because Black seed does lower blood sugar levels. Black seed should not be taken by pregnant women.

What are the Nurtritional Components?

Black seed contains over 100 valuable nutrients.  It contains about 21% protein, 38% carbohydrates and 35% plant fats and oils.  The contents are similar to evening primrose oil, but because of its complex composition, it is much stronger.   The active ingredients of black seed are Thymoquinone, Nigellone, and Fixed oils. it also contains in significant proportions protein, Carbohydrates and Essential fatty acids.  Other ingredients include Linoleic acid, Oleic acid, Calcium, Potassium, Iron, Zinc, Magnesium, Selenium, Vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin B2,Niacin, and Vitamin C. Learn More: Black Seed: Primary Properties.

Has there been any scientific research done?

There has been numerous on going research on the effects of Black seed since 1959. Research carried out at major international universities and articles published in various scientific journals documenting the astonishing results of the Black seed. In 1960, Egyptian researchers confirmed that Nigellone was responsible for Black seeds broncho-dilating effect. Scientists in Germany have confirmed the anti-bacterial and antimycotic effects of black seed oil. Scientist sat the Cancer and Immuno-Biological Laboratory have found that

Black seed stimulates bone marrow and immune cells and raises the interferon production, protects normal cells against cell destroying effects of viruses, destroys tumor cells and raises the number of anti- bodies producing B cells. U.S researchers have written the world wide first report on the anti-tumor affects of Black seed oil. Its title "Study of the Effects of Nigella sativa on Humans". Learn More: Black Seed: Reports

Should I take the the Oil or the Herb?
Both are effective in their own right..

Do I have to be sick ot take Black Seed?

Absolutely not!  Nowadays because our food is more and more denaturalized, our bodies are full of free radicals which produce cancer. The essential fatty acids in black seed  bind the free radicals and eliminate them.  Since our bodies are not able to synthesize thereby making Black seed an important addition to our diet.  Black seed also contains beta carotene, which is known to destroy cell damaging substances which produce cancer.





History of Black Seed

Nigella sativa (Black Seed) was discovered in Tutankhamen's tomb, implying that
it played an important role in ancient Egyptian practices. Although its exact role in Egyptian culture is not known, we do know that items entombed with a king were carefully selected to assist him in the afterlife.

The earliest written reference to black seed is found in the book of Isaiah in the Old Testament. Isaiah contrasts the reaping of black cumin with wheat: For the black cumin is not threshed with a threshing sledge, nor is a cart wheel rolled over the cumin, but the black cumin is beaten out with a stick, and the cumin with a rod. (Isaiah 28:25,27 NKJV). Easton's Bible Dictionary clarifies that the Hebrew word for black cumin, "ketsah," refers to "without doubt the Nigella sativa, a small annual of the order Ranunculaceae which grows wild in the Mediterranean countries, and is cultivated in Egypt and Syria for its seed."

Dioscoredes, a Greek physician of the 1st century, recorded that black seeds were taken to treat headaches, nasal congestion, toothache, and intestinal worms. They were also used, he reported, as a diuretic to promote menstruation and increase milk production.

The Muslim scholar al-Biruni (973-1048), who composed a treatise on the early origins of Indian and Chinese drugs, mentions that the black seed is a kind of grain called alwanak in the Sigzi dialect. Later, this was confirmed by Suhar Bakht who explained it to be habb-i-Sajzi (viz. Sigzi grains). This reference to black seed as "grains" points to the seed's possible nutritional use during the tenth and eleventh centuries.

In the Greco-Arab/Unani-Tibb system of medicine,which originated from Hippocrates, His contemporary Galen and Ibn Sina, black seed has been regarded as a valuable remedy in hepatic and digestive disorders and has been described as a stimulant in a variety of conditions, ascribed to an imbalance of cold humours.

Ibn Sina (980-1037), most famous for his volumes called "The Canon of Medicine," regarded by many as the most famous book in the history of medicine, East or West, refers to black seed as the seed "that stimulates the body's energy and helps recovery from fatigue or disspiritedness."

Black seed is also included in the list of natural drugs of Al-Tibb al-Nabawi, and, according to tradition, "Hold onto the use of the black seed for it has a remedy for every illness except death."  This prophetic reference in describing black seed as "having a remedy for all illnesses" may not be so exaggerated as it at first appears.  Recent research has provided evidence which indicates that black seed contains an ability to significantly boost the human immune system - if taken over time. The prophetic phrase, "hold onto the use of the seed," also emphasizes consistent usage of the seed.

Black seed has been traditionally and successfully used in the Middle and Far East countries for centuries to treat ailments including: bronchial asthma and bronchitis, rheumatism and related inflammatory diseases, to increase milk production in nursing mothers, to treat digestive disturbances, to support the body's immune system, to promote digestion and elimination, to fight parasitic infestation. Its oil has been used topically to treat skin conditions such as eczema and boils and is used topically to treat cold symptoms.

The many uses of black seed has earned for this medicinal herb the Arabic approbation habbatul barakah, meaning "the seed of blessing."





References

1:     Morikawa T, Xu F, Ninomiya K, Matsuda H, Yoshikawa M.    Related Articles, Links
Nigellamines a(3), a(4), a(5), and C, new dolabellane-type diterpene alkaloids, with lipid metabolism-promoting activities from the egyptian medicinal food black cumin.
Chem Pharm Bull (Tokyo). 2004 Apr;52(4):494-7.
PMID: 15056976 [PubMed - in process]

2:     Morikawa T, Xu F, Kashima Y, Matsuda H, Ninomiya K, Yoshikawa M.    Related Articles, Links
Novel dolabellane-type diterpene alkaloids with lipid metabolism promoting activities from the seeds of Nigella sativa.
Org Lett. 2004 Mar 18;6(6):869-72.
PMID: 15012052 [PubMed - in process]

3:     Hosseinzadeh H, Parvardeh S.    Related Articles, Links
Anticonvulsant effects of thymoquinone, the major constituent of Nigella sativa seeds, in mice.
Phytomedicine. 2004 Jan;11(1):56-64.
PMID: 14971722 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

4:     El-Saleh SC, Al-Sagair OA, Al-Khalaf MI.    Related Articles, Links
Thymoquinone and Nigella sativa oil protection against methionine-induced hyperhomocysteinemia in rats.
Int J Cardiol. 2004 Jan;93(1):19-23.
PMID: 14729430 [PubMed - in process]

5:     Meral I, Kanter M.    Related Articles, Links
Effects of Nigella sativa L. and Urtica dioica L. on selected mineral status and hematological values in CCl4-treated rats.
Biol Trace Elem Res. 2003 Winter;96(1-3):263-70.
PMID: 14716106 [PubMed - in process]

6:     Al-Ghamdi MS.    Related Articles, Links
Protective effect of Nigella sativa seeds against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage.
Am J Chin Med. 2003;31(5):721-8.
PMID: 14696675 [PubMed - in process]

7:     Kanter M, Meral I, Yener Z, Ozbek H, Demir H.    Related Articles, Links
Partial regeneration/proliferation of the beta-cells in the islets of Langerhans by Nigella sativa L. in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.
Tohoku J Exp Med. 2003 Dec;201(4):213-9.
PMID: 14690013 [PubMed - in process]

8:     Kalus U, Pruss A, Bystron J, Jurecka M, Smekalova A, Lichius JJ, Kiesewetter H.    Related Articles, Links
Effect of Nigella sativa (black seed) on subjective feeling in patients with allergic diseases.
Phytother Res. 2003 Dec;17(10):1209-14.
PMID: 14669258 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

9:     Iddamaldeniya SS, Wickramasinghe N, Thabrew I, Ratnatunge N, Thammitiyagodage MG.    Related Articles, Links
Protection against diethylnitrosoamine-induced hepatocarcinogenesis by an indigenous medicine comprised of Nigella sativa, Hemidesmus indicus and Smilax glabra: a preliminary study.
J Carcinog. 2003 Oct 18;2(1):6.
PMID: 14613573 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]

10:     Ramadan MF, Kroh LW, Morsel JT.    Related Articles, Links
Radical scavenging activity of black cumin (Nigella sativa L.), coriander (Coriandrum sativum L.), and niger (Guizotia abyssinica Cass.) crude seed oils and oil fractions.
J Agric Food Chem. 2003 Nov 19;51(24):6961-9.
PMID: 14611155 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

11:     Nickavar B, Mojab F, Javidnia K, Amoli MA.    Related Articles, Links
Chemical composition of the fixed and volatile oils of Nigella sativa L. from Iran.
Z Naturforsch [C]. 2003 Sep-Oct;58(9-10):629-31.
PMID: 14577620 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

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