The Health Benefits of the Black Seed are broad due to the complex chemical nature of the seeds. There are over 100 different chemical components in one seed. It is no surprise that such a complex seed would provide a variety of remedies for varying ailments.
Ibn Sina (980-1037), the author of “The Canon of Medicine,” one of the most famous books in the field of medicine, claimed the black seed is good for:
-Inner purification and detox of the body.
-Reduction of mucous and strengthening of the lungs
-Fever, coughs, colds, toothaches and headache
-Skin diseases and wound treatments
-Intestinal parasites and worms as well as remedy for poisonous bites and stings
Black Seed is traditionally used in the Orient for gastrointestinal problems, flatulence, diarrhea, constipation, jaundice, gallstones, mental degeneration, stimulation of kidneys and increased urine flow, infections, congestion and bronchial disorders, menstrual complaints, promotion of lactation, skin parasites, skin care, dandruff and hair loss.
The Black Seed is rich in nutritional values and works as a natural immune booster. It contains some of the following nutritional benefits:
-Monosaccharides (single molecule sugars) in the form of glucose, rhamnose, xylose and arabinose
-Non-starch polysaccharide component which is a useful source of fiber
-Rich in fatty acids, particularly the unsaturated and essential fatty acids (linoleic and linoleic acid)
-15 amino acids make up the protein content including 8 of the essential 9 amino acids
-Contains arginine which is essential for infant growth
-Carotene which is converted by the liver into vitamin A, the vitamin known for anti-cancer activity
-Calcium, iron, sodium, and potassium
Ibn Sina (980-1037) also described the black seed as having the capability to “stimulate the body’s energy and help recover from fatigue or dispiritedness.” It was also referenced in more modern studies that the black seed has the ability to maintain and restore body heat. When the body loses energy and innate heat, it loses the ability to fight off toxins which results in a higher risk for contracting illness.
The Black Seed also has anti-tumor principles, anti-bacterial, anti-histamine, anti-fungal and anti-inflammatory. Because of these properties, the Black Seed has been tested for treatments with arthritis, digestive and bowel complaints, asthmatic conditions and overall respiratory health. The Black Seed oil has also been particularly successful in treating psoriasis and eczema.
Most medicines work best when given a chance to run their full course, this too applies to Black Seed Oil. The body’s ability to promote health and healing of a lasting nature will best be increased by regular use of the oil.
Black seed is a therapeutic aid and at times may not be the exclusive source for treatment of serious medical complications. Some conditions may require conventional medicines in addition to the black seed regiment. Additionally please note that Black Seed use is not recommended during pregnancy.
While there is still much to be discovered about this mysteriously wonderful little seed, it is safe to say the Black Seed and its oil are truly a natural elixir.