Nigella saliva Holy Herb of the Middle East

摘要

Nigella sativa (black seed or black cumin) originated from the Mediterranean region and has been used in cultures in that area since time immemorial. The well-named herb has jet-black seeds notable for their content of terpenoids, particularly thymoquinone, and fatty acids. Clinical trials have validated this herb's traditional use for treating atopic disorders. There is also clinical trial support, although preliminary, for the use of black seed in people withdrawing from, and trying to abstain from, opioids, and people who want to improve lipid profiles and/or decrease seizure frequency. Other actions black seed shows are antidiabetic, antineoplas-tic, antimicrobial, inflammation-modulating, redox-modulating, immunomodulating, analgesic, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and gastroprotective effects. Animal studies suggest that this herb may be a useful adjunct to cancer chemotherapy and acetaminophen. Black seed is extremely safe if used in proper doses and is a widely utilized food item in the Middle East and India. Further research is needed but this resource should be more widely utilized in the West.