Black Seed – Anamu Herbal Tea

 

The Health Benefits of Nigella Sativa also known as Black Seed.

Nigella Sativa L. (Ranunculaceae) is considered one of the most treasured nutrient-rich herbs in history. All around the world and numerous scientific studies are in progress to validate the traditionally claimed uses of a small seed of this species.  Nigella sativa is a small black seed that has been used for centuries in herbal health options in numerous cultures around the world.  The maximal nutritional value of black seed cumin can be linked to the presence of a substantial amount of vegetable protein, fiber and minerals, and vitamins.  Black cumin seeds also contain significant levels of iron, copper, zinc, phosphorus, calcium, thiamin, niacin, pyridoxine, and folic acid.

In addition, phytochemical analyses of black seed displayed the presence of over hundreds of phytoconstituents which include mainly alkaloids, saponins, sterols, and essential oil. This seed contains over 20% fixed oil of which the major fatty acids are linoleic acid (64.6%) and palmitic acid (20.4%). The seed oil is comprised of 0.4%–2.5% essential oil also. The seed comes from a flowering plant (part of the Ranunculaceae family) native to southwest Asia and the Mediterranean. The plant now grows throughout India, the Middle East, and Europe.

Amongst different active constituents reported in the scientific case studies so far, thymoquinone found as a major component of the essential oil is the most bioactive compound and exhibits wide-ranging therapeutic benefits. Some cultures use Nigella sativa for certain health conditions including asthma, bronchitis, and inflammation. But it has long been used as a spice and food preservative.

While research on Nigella Sativa’s health effects is limited, findings from in vitro, animal, and a small number of human studies show that it may offer immune-boosting and antioxidant benefits.

Other Names The Black Seed Goes By

Nigella sativa is the scientific name for a plant that goes by several other names, including:

  • Black seed
  • Black cumin
  • Black caraway
  • Cumin noir
  • Fennel flower
  • Seed of Blessing
  • Small Fennel
  • Kalonji

Health Benefits of the Black Seed

  1. Asthma –   According to a 2013 review investigating the therapeutic potential of Nigella sativa in boiled extract form, authors concluded that the natural substance has the potential to alleviate the symptoms of asthma by widening the bronchioles to allow airflow to the lungs.  Similarly, a month-long 2011 study looked at the seeds impact on allergic rhinitis. In a sample of 66 men and women who experienced nasal congestion, runny and itchy nose, and sneezing, Nigella sativa reduced symptoms during the first two weeks.
  2. High Blood Pressure – Nigella sativa is widely reported to have anti-hypertensive properties, which aid in reducing blood pressure. A 2013 study found that Nigella sativa oil significantly decreased systolic and diastolic blood pressure among 70 participants. After administering Nigella sativa seed extract twice per day for 28 days, the result was lower blood pressure, but not to a significant degree.

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