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Author: Betty
Norton
Many wonderful helping
plants surfaced when the cultures of our world started to
share trade and teach their herbal medicines to each other.
One such plant was Nigella Sativa commonly known as black
seed. This mild aromatic herb is indigenous to the Middle
East where it has been used as a traditional remedy for over
2000 years. It was used so extensively that it became known
as the seed of blessing “Habbatul Barakah”.
EARLY APPLICATIONS
In the 13th century, the Arabic physician Ibn Kaym claimed
black seed could be used for over 50 ailments such as
Bronchial Asthma, Bronchitis and other diseases of the
respiratory tract. Also, inflammation reduction, Arthritis
relief, correction of digestive disorders, constipation
relief, fighting parasitic infestations, detoxification and
strengthening of the liver, increased energy and general
good health are among the many benefits from using black
seed.
SCIENTIFIC STUDIES
At the 71st annual meeting of the federation of American
societies for experimental biology, a report was issued
supporting some of the medicinal claims of Black seed. Some
medicinal response may be attributed to the increase of
immune enhancing T cells. This may support the black seed’s
role in balancing and strengthening the immune system.
One of the active ingredients found in black seed is called
Nigellone. This ingredient has shown the ability to produce
an anti-histamine response in the body. Studies have shown
the benefits of this anti-histamine response in children and
adults with bronchial asthma. Unlike most bronchial asthma
medicine, Nigellone produced no harmful side effects. A
study conducted by the Amala cancer research center in Amala
Nagar in India showed evidence that Black seed is a potent
antitumor agent. This study also showed that a long chain
fatty acid found in Black seed may be the active component.
THE CHEMICAL COMPOSITION
Black seed contains many active compounds as well as 15
amino acid proteins, carbohydrates, alkaloids, Saponins,
crude fibre, calcium, iron, sodium and potassium. Black seed
also contains 84% fatty acids including linoleic, linolenic
and oleic forms plus very special volatile oils. These
volatile oils contain important compounds that are
antibacterial and antifungal. The antibacterial properties
help inhibit the growth of several species of bacteria as
well as Candida. It is also suggested that this plant can be
helpful in preventing dental plaque.
Black seed can also be
combined with other substances to increase certain medicinal
responses. Black seed contains 23 different plant sterols.
These sterols can fit onto the hormone receptors in the
human body. This ability to fit onto the receptor sites may
be useful in relieving prostate inflammation and unpleasant
menopausal symptoms.
The seed is also known as a Galactogouge. This means it helps to increase the flow of
milk in lactating women. Black seed is a herb from the
middle east. It supports our bodies in so many different
ways. It is non habit forming and safe. Black seed works
well with many different herbs and natural substances. Black
Seed and Black Seed & Combinations in capsule form are
available at your local health food store. |
Black
Seed & 
