Black seed: why it should be included in your daily diet?

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.