By Ted PanDeva Zagar Times Correspondent nwitimes.com
Posted: Thursday, July 28, 2011 12:00 am
Virtually unknown in Western medicine, nigella sativa is so well regarded in Asia, Africa and the Middle East that a popular belief holds that this herb is a panacea for everything except aging and death. Also commonly known as blackseed-specimens of the tiny seed have been found in Pharaoh Tutanhkamun's tomb to promote wellness in the next life-nigella sativa has a lengthy history as both an herb and a food.
WHAT DOES IT DO?
Nigella sativa seeds can be used raw or cooked to flavor breads, pickles, cakes and countless other dishes. Eaten in this manner, the spicy seed also provides relief from stomach and intestinal pains, bloating and colic. Women in India use the seeds to increase breast milk -- and even breast size! -- and to treat menstrual disorders. In 2007, scientists reported that thymoquinone -- an active compound discovered in nigella sativa -- holds much promise in treating prostate cancer and may even help to prevent this common male affliction. The seed is an effective enemy of parasitic worms.
ABOUT THE HERB
Native to south and southwest Asia, nigella sativa is an annual flowering plant hailing from the buttercup family. Delicate pale blue or white flowers bearing five to ten petals produce an inflated fruit that contains the much sought-after seeds.
RECOMMENDED DOSAGE
Replace the pepper in your shaker with nigella sativa's aromatic seeds and sprinkle them over your salad or soup. Place the finely scented seeds in a muslin bag to hang near a fire, and this will fill the room with a delightful aroma. Avoid heavy use of nigella sativa during pregnancy.
The opinions expressed are solely the writer's. NOTE: Visit herbalastrology.com to read Ted PanDeva Zagar's other articles and columns that discuss the benefits of herbs and natural foods. DISCLAIMER: The author's comments are not intended to serve as medical advice, and he urges his readers to seek qualified wellness professionals to resolve matters of health.
Where to buy Black seed oil
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