An Islamic View Point: Black Seed Oil

An Islamic View Point: Black Seed Oil

Ancient nigella seeds from Boyali Höyük in north-central Turkey.

J Ethnopharmacol. 2009 Jul 30;124(3):416-20. Epub 2009 Jun 6.


Ancient nigella seeds from Boyali Höyük in north-central Turkey.

Salih B, Sipahi T, Dönmez EO.

SourceDepartment of Chemistry, Hacettepe University, 06800, Beytepe, Ankara, Turkey.



Abstract

AIM OF THE STUDY: The seeds of nigella (black cumin) (Nigella sativa L.) have been widely used as a natural remedy, either alone or in combination with bee products, for the treatment of many acute as well as chronic conditions for centuries, especially in the Middle East and Southeast Asia. In consideration of potential utilization, in recent years the seeds have been extensively studied in terms of pharmacological effects. It has been shown that the seeds have significant effects on multiple biological systems. In addition, the protective roles of the seeds with bee products (honey and wax) have been recently proved. This study reports the palaeoethnobotanical find of nigella seeds recovered in a pilgrim flask from the Old Hittite Period level of Boyali Höyük (Mound), dating from around 1650 BC, in north-central Turkey. The study also deals with a comparison between the chemical properties of the Boyali Höyük nigella seeds (ancient seeds) and those of modern nigella seeds. The results of chemical analysis of the debris found in the pilgrim flask to test the presence of bee product are also presented here.



MATERIALS AND METHODS: All macro-remains found in the pilgrim flask were first examined under a zoom stereomicroscope for specific determination and all were identified as nigella seeds using the reference collection of modern seeds. Ethyl alcohol and dichloromethane (Aldrich, Buch-Switzerland) were used for the extraction of the ancient seeds and modern nigella seeds to trace both polar and non-polar chemical compounds by a Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometer (GC-MS) system. Characterization of the chemical compounds in propolis extracts was also made by GC-MS.



RESULTS: The GC-MS chromatograms showed that the ancient and modern seed samples were similar in essential oil acids. Many organic compounds of bee products, such as wax and phenolic antioxidants, were also detected in the container.



CONCLUSION: The results of this study indicated that the Hittite pilgrim flask contained a pure cache of nigella seeds mixed with bee products, wax and propolis. There has been no direct archaeological evidence for medicinal use of nigella seeds with bee products by the inhabitants of Boyali Höyük or the Hittities so far. However, in view of the folkloric use of nigella seeds in combination with bee products for treatments of disorders and promotion of health, it is thought that the Boyali Höyük material would represent a remedy used by the Hittites in Anatolia about 3600 years ago.

Ithaca, NY Company, Bionexus, Introduces First Natural Skin Care Lotion for Dogs Containing Standardized Nigella sativa Extracts

ITHACA, N.Y., April 17, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Dr. Linda M. Pacioretty, Bionexus CEO, today announced the national market launch of the Company's first canine product, DogsBestFriend™. This innovative, all natural, skin-care lotion for dogs combines one of the oldest traditional medicines, Nigella sativa seed oils, with the newest extraction technology, supercritical fluid extraction. The result is a breakthrough, natural replacement for hydrocortisone, antihistamines and topical antibiotics powerful enough to help combat dermal inflammation, itching, bacterial and fungal infections and pain, yet safe enough to use on dogs of all ages.




(Photo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20120417/NY89191 )



Bionexus' patent-pending, GellX™ extraction technology and proprietary combination process, produces a healing, moisturizing lotion that contains a unique, hypoallergenic, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory combination of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, thymoquinone, retinoids, and mixed tocopherols without the use of toxic chemicals.



"DogsBestFriend is the result of seven years of laboratory studies with thymoquinone and N. sativa extracts," added Dr. John G. Babish, Bionexus' Chairman and Chief Science Officer.



Bionexus became interested in N. sativa while characterizing the anti-inflammatory activity of thymoquinone in several cell-culture systems. In the laboratory, however, commercial sources of N. sativa oil did not reproduce the anti-inflammatory effects of thymoquinone. This inconsistency led to a five-year search for an extraction process that would produce reliably potent, anti-inflammatory extracts from N. sativa seeds. Bionexus' GellX™ patent-pending, nontoxic extraction and recombination technology represents the cumulative efforts of this work.



The national launch of DogsBestFriend follows four-months of test marketing in the northeast. Describing this period, Dr. Pacioretty noted, "Our early clinical testing suggested hot-spot remission could be seen in as little as one day. While this result seemed too good to be expected commercially, our test market customers also noticed the surprisingly rapid relief offered by DogsBestFriend was unlike any product they had previously used." Typical customer comments regarding hot spots included, "...after only two applications, the hot spot was completely dried up," and "My dog has never had a hot spot that she didn't need oral antibiotics to clear up ... THRILLED with this product."



Dog owners also praised DogsBestFriend's anti-itch and moisturizing qualities: "I put it on my girl who had scratched herself raw and it soothed her skin. In a few days her skin was healed up. We love this product."



Contact Bionexus' pet marketing division Brookton Labs at www.brooktonlabs.com for purchasing information and LIKE us on Facebook (www.facebook.com/DogsBestFriendLotion).



About Bionexus

Bionexus® Ltd. utilizes a product development model similar to that of the pharmaceutical industry, with a focus on natural ingredients and commercial products for eczema, osteoarthritis, obesity and type 2 diabetes in humans and pets.



Contact

Dr. John G. Babish, Chairman

jgb7@brooktonlabs.com

607-266-9492

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asthma, black seed oil, natural home remedies, Nigella seeds

Nigella sativa contain a number of substances important to the human body

Nigella sativa contain a number of substances and volatile oils important to the human body, as well as a number of fixed-interest oils


Chemical analysis has shown to contain the Nigella sativa volatile oil on the material Alnejalon The seeds contain substances once.

SOIL AMENDMENT Nigella sativa used for taste and flavor in many foods, bread and pastries.

Nigella sativa oil is used in the manufacture of some medicines, cough medicines, cough medicines and treatment of diseases of the chest and asthma, which proved the effectiveness of some oils and substances found in Nigella sativa Ktardh expectorant.

Nigella sativa oil diuretic diuretic and menstruation in women, and is generating a discharge of saliva.

Nigella sativa oil is added to coffee and tea at 3 points, where he works intestinal effective analgesic oil repellent and wind intestinal.

Reduce blood pressure and also reduce the speed of the heartbeat.

Eliminate some of the germs in the body and on some fungi.

Treatment of intestinal parasites, and to kill the worms and stomach worms.

Relax the muscles of the intestine.

Strengthen the immune system where Nigella sativa mix with honey.

Nigella sativa Knepth used for decoration, as the beautiful flowers and growth of vegetation

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The Blessed Seed for toothache

Toothache can be very painful and can occur from a variety of reasons.




If we care for our teeth, ie. daily cleaning them, these dilemma can still occur.

Black seed oil has been proven to be helpful in many cases simply by numbing the pain.

The anti inflammatory components in the blessed seed oil reduce swelling and its anti microbial components help to lessen the infection.

The blessed seed has been used for thousands of years for a natural home remedy for numerous ailments.

Only recently have we in the West been reintroduced to this ancient herbal remedy as we lost touch with herbs for healing with the modern pharmaceuticals that we are now accustomed to. The blessed seed's main advantage to modern drugs is that it has no known side affects. The vast majority of westerners that have tried it have been astounded how well they have responded to the health giving qualities of this remarkable herb.

Only some find that it is too pungent to taste, where they may take capsules that totally hide the taste.

In this time where we are inundated with more and more modern diseases the time is clear to look at a gift from nature that was clearly created for our optimum health.
 
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Black Cumin Seed Extract

Gale Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine
2005
Paradise, Lee
700+ words
COPYRIGHT 2005 The Gale Group, Inc. (Hide copyright information) Copyright

Black cumin seed extract

Description

Black cumin seed (Nigella sativa ) is an annual herbaceous plant and a member of the Ranunculaceae (buttercup) family. The fruit of the plant, the black seeds, accounts for its name. Black cumin seed (also called black seed) should not be confused with the herb, cumin (Cumunum cyminum, which is found in many grocery stores.



Considered native to the Mediterranean region, black cumin seed is cultivated in North Africa, Asia, and southeastern Europe. The largest producers of black cumin seed are Egypt, India, Pakistan, Iran, Iraq, and Turkey. Other species, such as Turkish black cumin (Nigella damascena ), are not used medicinally; and one type, Nigella garidella, is even poisonous.



Playfully referred to as "Love in the Mist," the black cumin seed plant has leaves that grow in pairs. The lower leaves are short and supported by slender stems, while the upper leaves generally grow to approximately 4 inches (10 cm) in length. The stalk of the plant, with its bluish white flower petals, can grow up to 18 inches (46 cm) in height while its fruit matures. At first, the seeds (the fruit of the plant) are held in a capsule in the center of the flower. The capsule opens upon maturity, revealing lightly colored seeds. It is only upon their exposure to air that the seeds become black.



Most often, the extract is produced by a process referred to as cold pressing. Temperatures no higher than 140–176°F (60–80°C) are applied to the seeds to help release the oil and preserve its benefits.



Rich with compounds such as nigellone and thymoquinone, black cumin seed is thought to contain over 100 ingredients; many remain unknown. However, experts agree that the most important compounds contained in the extract are the fatty acids and nutrients. Some components of black cumin seed extract are as follows:



myristic acid

palmitic acid

palmitoleic acid

stearic acid

oleic acid

linoleic acid (omega-6)

linolenic acid (omega-3)

arachidonic acid

protein

thiamin

riboflavin

pyridoxine

niacin

folacin

calcium

iron

copper

zinc

phosphorous

General use

Black cumin seed has been used for centuries to treat respiratory and digestive problems, parasites, and inflammation. In ancient times, it was a remedy for a variety of health conditions including, colds, infections , headaches, and toothaches. The pharoahs' personal doctors are reported to have offered black cumin seed as a digestive aid after large meals. In fact, the extract was found in the tomb of King Tutankhamun, presumably to protect him in the afterlife.



Black cumin was also used as a remedy for skin diseases, dry skin, dandruff , and wounds .



At one time, black cumin seed was highly valued in Europe, but by the eighteenth century it had lost popularity, and was primarily used as a garden decoration. However, black cumin seed extract has regained popularity, and is now more widely used as a remedy in Europe and North America.



Many herbalists in current times embrace the healing properties of black cumin seed extract. For example, the extract is sometimes used externally to treat such skin care problems as psoriasis, eczema , and dry skin, and internally to treat stomach problems, respiratory ailments, and allergies , as well as to improve circulation and the immune system. In recent years, the extract has been the subject of immune system research.



One reason that is often given for the medicinal value of black cumin seed extract is its richness in polyunsaturated fatty acids, which help to produce prostaglandin E1. Prostaglandin E1 has many functions in the body, particularly in relation to the immune system, sugar metabolism, skin infections, and blood clots . It is also believed to protect the stomach lining.



Experts point out that the medicinal value may be provided by a unique and mysterious synergy (combined action) between the multitude of compounds present in the seeds. In addition, the extract, which is more concentrated than the seeds alone, is said to have greater healing power. A study at Cairo University in Eqypt showed a boost in antibacterial activity when the extract was used in combination with antibiotics such as streptomycin and gentamicin. In the same study, it showed additional antibacterial function in combination with erythromycin, tobramycin, doxycycline, and ampicillin, to kill E. Coli and the pathogenic yeast, Candida albicans. In addition, the study showed that the extract destroyed non-fatal subcutaneous staphylococcal infection in mice.



In 2003, one study noted the antifungal activity of black cumin seed extract against Candida albicans. In the study, mice were injected with Candida albicans, producing colonies of the organism in their liver, spleen, and kidneys. The researchers found that treatment with black cumin seed extract 24 hours after inoculation inhibited growth of the Candida albicans. With continued treatment, the extract significantly decreased the amount of Candida albicans found in the kidneys, liver, and spleen.



Aside from verifying its antibacterial and antifungal properties, researchers in recent years have tested the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of black cumin seed extract. In 1995, a group of scientists from the Department of Pharmacy at King's College in London found that the extract contains these properties, and is an antioxidant as well. They believe the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant abilities may be linked to ingredients such as thymoquinone and unsaturated fatty acids. Ultimately, the researchers concluded that black cumin seed extract is a justified treatment for rheumatism and related inflammatory diseases.



In 2001, a study performed at the Department of Pharmacology at King Faisal University in Saudi Arabia, reported anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity from the use of black cumin seed extract in animals. Paw edema (swelling) was reduced, as was reaction time in response to extreme heat. A 2003 study confirmed the analgesic effects of the extract. Studies in this area are likely to continue well into the future.



Researchers have also investigated and verified the extract's antihistamine activity, focusing on nigellone, an ingredient in black cumin seed extract. One 1993 study found that nigellone acted as an inhibitory agent on histamine (a substance involved in an allergic response, causing widening of blood vessels and tightening of bronchial passages) by inhibiting protein kinase C, known to initiate histamine release. In 2003, another study concluded that black seed oil is an effective treatment for allergies.



Preparations

There are many applications made with black cumin seed extract. It can be found in teas, cough syrups, wound salves, compresses, massage oils, and other products. Black seed honey, soap, shampoo, and creams are all available commercially.



The extract has a strong flavor, which is improved by mixing it with honey. Herbal teas also help dilute its strength. As with any product used for medicinal purposes, it is important to read and follow the label instructions and warnings.



Although black cumin seed extract is not normally associated with severe skin irritation, a skin patch test should be conducted before using it for the first time. A small amount of diluted extract is placed on the inside of one elbow and covered with a bandage. After 24 hours, any redness or irritation is indicative of a negative reaction. This test should be done before a person proceeds with more extensive use.



Black cumin seed extract, in these dosages, is used as a remedy for the following conditions:



Headache. A few drops of the diluted extract are rubbed on the patient's forehead. Some patients may also find it helpful to take 1/2 teaspoon of the extract after breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Cough. The dose is 1/2 teaspoon of diluted black cumin seed extract in the morning. A dry cough may require one teaspoon of the extract twice a day, mixed with one cup of coffee or hot tea. The extract can be rubbed on the chest and back for additional relief.

Common cold. One teaspoon of the extract is mixed with hot lemon tea and honey two or three times a day.

Diarrhea. One teaspoon of extract is mixed with one cup of yogurt twice a day.

Precautions

Black cumin seed extract is not to be used during pregnancy .



Its safety in young children has not been established. Patients with liver or kidney disease are advised not to use this product unless a physician directs them to do so.



Black cumin seed extract is said to lower blood sugar levels; therefore, a diabetic patient is advised to consult with a physician before using.



Side effects

In general, if used as directed, black cumin seed extract is not associated with serious side effects. However, it has been reported that black cumin seed extract has a very low degree of toxicity, and may cause significant negative effects on liver and kidney function. A recommended daily allowance (RDA) has not been established for the extract, so it is wise to consult with a physician before beginning any internal treatment.



Interactions

There does not appear to be a list of serious interactions associated with the use of black cumin seed extract; however, it is recommended that anyone taking prescription drugs seek the opinion of a physician and/or pharmacist before using black cumin seed extract in combination with the prescribed treatment.



Resources

BOOKS

Luetjohann, S. The Healng Power of Black Cumin. Twin Trees, WI: Lotus Light Publications, 1998.



Schleicher, P., and M. Saleh The Magical Egyptian Herb for Allergies, Asthma, and Immune Disorders. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 2000.



PERIODICALS

Albert-Matesz, R. "One of life's tiny treasures." The Herb Companion October 2003; 16: 16–25. 1998.



Ali, B. H., and G. Blunden. "Pharmacological and toxicological properties of Nigella sativa." Phytotherapy Research. (April 2003): 299–305.



Al-Ghamdi, M.S. "The anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic activity of Nigella sativa." Journal of Ethnopharmacology. (June 2001): 45–48.



Al-Naggar, T. B., M. P. Gomez-Serranillos, M. E. Carretero, and A. M. Villar. "Neuropharmacological activity of Nigella sativa L Extracts." Journal of Ethnopharmacology. (September 2003): 63–68.



Chakravarty, N. "Inhibition of histamine release from mast cells by nigellone." Annals Allergy. (March 1993): 237–42.



Hanafy, M. S., and M. E. Hatem. "Studies on the antimicrobial activity of Nigella sativa seed (black cumin)." Journal of Ethnopharmacology. (September 1991): 275–8.



Kalus, U., A. Pruss, J. Bystron, A. Smekalova, J. J. Lichius, and H. Kiesewetter. "Effect of Nigella sativa (black seed) on subjective feeling in patients with allergic diseases." Phytotherapy Research. (December 2003): 1209–14.



Khan, M. A., M. K. Ashfaq, H. S. Zuberi, M. S. Mahmood, and A. H. Gilani. "The in vivo antifungal activity of the aqueous extract from Nigella sativa seeds." Phytotherapy Research (February 2003): 183–6.

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An alternative treatment for Candida infections with Nigella sativa extracts

A. Bita, A.F. Rosu, D. Calina, L. Rosu, O. Zlatian, C. Dindere, A. Simionescu

1University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Student, Craiova, Romania

2University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Clinical pharmacy, Craiova, Romania

3University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Microbiology, Craiova, Romania

4University of Craiova, Electric technology, Craiova, Romania

Abstract

Background Nigella sativa is a herb from the Mediterranean region with antidiabetic, bronchodilator, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, lipid lowering, anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties.



Purpose This study aimed to reveal the antifungal activity of aqueous, methanolic and chloroform extracts obtained from the plant seeds, compared with the effect of traditional antifungals.



Materials and methods Using standard mycological diagnostic methodology The authors isolated and identified 20 strains of Candida albicans from pathological products collected from patients hospitalised in different departments of the Craiova Emergency Hospital. Aqueous, methanolic and chloroform extracts were made from the seeds of Nigella sativa, in decreasing dilutions, in which Wattman filter paper discs were soaked and dried and then used to achieve the antifungal graph by using the Kirby-Bauer diffusion technique. Simultaneously, the testing was repeated using standard antifungal disks (Becton Dickinson) and the two sets of results compared. The antifungal effect was assessed by measuring the diameter of the inhibition zone, noting the concentration per disk.



Results The results show that methanolic extracts of Nigella sativa have the strongest antifungal effect followed by the chloroform extracts. Aqueous extracts showed no antifungal activity.



Conclusions The research shows treatment with natural products in a good light as an alternative for treating fungal infections. The authors envisage Nigella sativa extract enhancing the effect of conventional therapy.

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