Nutrition and Cancer
2003, Vol. 45, No. 2, Pages 195-202
(doi:10.1207/S15327914NC4502_09)
Chemopreventive Potential of Volatile Oil From Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.) Seeds Against Rat Colon Carcinogenesis
Elsayed I. Salim?Shoji Fukushima?
Chemopreventive effects of orally administered Nigella sativa oil on the induction and development of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced aberrant crypt foci (ACF), putative preneoplastic lesions for colon cancer, were investigated in Fischer 344 rats. Starting at 6 wk of age, 45 male rats (groups 1-3) were subcutaneously injected with DMH once a week for 3 wk. Group 1 (15 rats) served as a carcinogen control group without N. sativa administration. Group 2 or 3 (15 rats each) were given the oil in the postinitiation stage or in the initiation stage, respectively. Animals of group 4 (11 rats) were injected with 0.9% saline and received N. sativa oil from the beginning until the termination. At sacrifice, 14 wk after the start, the total numbers of ACF as well as those with at least four crypts were significantly reduced in group 2 (P < 0.01). However, treatment with N. sativa oil in the initiation stage (group 3) did not exhibit significant inhibitory effects except on foci with only one aberrant crypt. Immunohistochemical analysis of 5-bromo-2'-deoxyuridine labeling in colonic crypts revealed the N. sativa oil to have significant antiproliferative activity in both initiation and postinitiation stages and especially in the latter. Histological examination revealed no pathological changes in the liver, kidneys, spleen, or other organs of rats treated with N. sativa. In addition, biochemical parameters of blood and urine as well as body weight gain were not affected. These findings demonstrate that the volatile oil of N. sativa has the ability to inhibit colon carcinogenesis of rats in the postinitiation stage, with no evident adverse side effects, and that the inhibition may be associated, in part, with suppression of cell proliferation in the colonic mucosa.
Cited by
Mohamad A. Abd El-Aziz, Hosny A. Hassan, Mahmoud H. Mohamed, Abdel-Raheim M. A. Meki, Sary K. H. Abdel-Ghaffar, Mahmoud R. Hussein?. (2005) The biochemical and morphological alterations following administration of melatonin, retinoic acid and Nigella sativa in mammary carcinoma: an animal model. International Journal of Experimental Pathology 86:6, 383
CrossRef
Soon-Young Paik, Kyung-Hee Koh, Sung-Mok Beak, Seung-Hwan Paek, Jung-Ae Kim?. (2005) The Essential Oils from Zanthoxylum schinifolium Pericarp Induce Apoptosis of HepG2 Human Hepatoma Cells through Increased Production of Reactive Oxygen Species. Biological & Pharmaceutical Bulletin 28:5, 802
CrossRef
P. Suresh Kanna, C.B. Mahendrakumar, B.N. Indira, Sunil Srivastawa, K. Kalaiselvi, T. Elayaraja, Malay Chatterjee?. (2004) Chemopreventive effects of vanadium toward 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced genotoxicity and preneoplastic lesions in rat colon. Environmental and Molecular Mutagenesis 44:2, 113
CrossRef
ladycolorado
View More Posts Ignore Reply #2 - 02/11/08 1:59pm
From The March 2000 Issue of Nutrition Science News
Feature
Herbal Aids for Cancer
7 natural additions to treatment regimens
WHEN YOU READ THIS ARTICLE, WILL SEE BESIDES CANCER BENEFITS THE BENEFITS CUMIN HAS FOR US ALSO DISCUSSES OTHER ANTICANCER HERBS: by Cindy L.A. Jones, Ph.D.
Cancer treatments are a paradox, on one hand delivering powerful toxicity to a tumor, but on the other spreading toxicity to the rest of the body. The side effects of such treatments may cause death even before the cancer does. Biological response modifiers (BRMs) are compounds that have a unique effect on physiology and can reduce the side effects of cancer treatments, while at the same time increasing their effectiveness.
A BRM repairs damage to the body rather than targeting a pathogenic agent such as cancer. It typically acts by stimulating the immune system to restore optimal function. Many diseases and infections as well as AIDS result from immune surveillance failure. Because chemotherapy compromises the immune system, people receiving cancer treatments run an especially high risk of contracting and dying of infections.
Cytokines, hormones naturally produced in the body, promote immunity and are often used clinically as BRMs?to treat disease, fight viral infections and augment chemotherapy. Three pharmaceutical cytokines currently in use include colony-stimulating factors that reduce the chance of infection and thus the need for antibiotics by stimulating bone marrow to produce more white blood cells; interferons that stimulate macrophages to ingest foreign particles and help the body produce antiviral chemicals; and interleukins that stimulate growth and activation of white blood cells. The therapeutic use of these cytokines, called immunotherapy, as a cancer treatment both with and without standard anti-cancer drugs is marginally successful. Side effects such as depression, nausea and chest pain, however, can limit the effectiveness of some pharmaceutical cytokines.
Many herbs have long been known to affect the immune system, but only recently have scientists considered them as possible BRMs and adjunct cancer therapies. Such herbs often prompt the body's cells to secrete cytokines, which then enhance the immune response. The most promising of these herbs include black cumin, mistletoe, ginseng, astragalus, green tea, echinacea and garlic.
Black Cumin
Black cumin (Nigella sativa) is related to a common garden flower that goes by several names including cinnamon flower, nutmeg flower and love-in-a-mist. In the Mediterranean and Middle East where nigella seeds are traditionally used, it is also referred to as black seed and is used for a variety of ailments including upper respiratory conditions, headaches, cancer, stomachaches and jaundice. Nigella seeds are traditionally eaten alone or ground with honey.
Nigella is considered a BRM because studies show extracts from the seeds are toxic to cancer cells and, in mice, prevent blood cell toxicity caused by the anti-cancer drug cisplatin.1 The active components of nigella seeds are the volatile oils thymoquinoline and dithymoquinone, both of which inhibit tumor cells in laboratory experiments?even tumor cells resistant to anti-cancer drugs.2 A recent cell study conducted at the International Immuno-Biology Research Laboratory in South Carolina showed that when incubated with nigella extract, cancer cells were unable to produce fibroblast growth factor and the protein collagenase, both necessary for blood-vessel growth into the tumor.3 Without a blood supply, a tumor cannot grow.
Nigella also stimulates the immune system, as shown in an experiment conducted with human lymphocytic white blood cells. Cells treated with nigella-seed proteins produced greater amounts of cytokines, specifically interleukin-1-beta and tumor necrosis factor alpha.4 How and if this is important to treating cancer is not yet established.
Another recent experiment indicates that thymoquinone may also prevent some toxic side effects of cancer treatments. Scientists from King Saud University in Saudi Arabia found that mice pretreated with thymoquinone were protected from carbon tetrachloride-induced liver toxicity. Carbon tetrachloride is a toxin that in small amounts can kill by causing the liver and kidney to atrophy. Liver toxicity was assessed by measuring the release of liver enzymes in the blood. Thymoquinone also demonstrated antioxidant activity, which may be how it protects the liver.5
According to U.S.D.A. Phytochemical and Ethnobotanical Databases compiled by James Duke, Ph.D., nigella seed also contains limonene.6 Found in high amounts in lavender, limonene is being investigated for use as a treatment for some types of cancer.7
Mistletoe
European mistletoe (Viscum album) is an evergreen parasite that depends on a host, often an old apple tree. It has long been considered a sacred plant, partially because of its medicinal properties.8 Historically, mistletoe was used to treat nervous disorders, but some European clinics are now using it to treat cancer.
Mistletoe may prove helpful for treating cancer because it stimulates the immune system, stabilizes DNA, inhibits blood vessel growth and is toxic to cancer cells.9 Many of these effects were documented in cell and animal studies in the 1970s and 1980s. Although small and poorly designed, some human studies show that mistletoe treatment also improves the quality of life and survival rates for people with cancer.
The most common preparation of mistletoe is an injectable, fermented whole-plant extract called Iscador.10 Its active components include proteins such as ML-I and viscotoxins. Recent studies show that mistletoe's viscotoxins affect the immune system. Arndt Bussing from Krebsforschung Herdecke, University Witten/Herdecke in Germany showed that crude extracts of viscotoxin stimulated human granulocyte cells (a type of white blood cell) to destroy pathogenic cells.11 This is especially important because cancer treatment stunts granuloctye activity, which in turn increases infection risk. Treatment with mistletoe must be administered only under the supervision of a health care provider.
Ginseng
There are two types of ginseng, Panax ginseng, also known as Oriental, Asiatic, Chinese, Korean or Japanese ginseng, and P. quinquefolius, known as American ginseng. Siberian ginseng (Eluetherococcus senticosus) is a different plant genus entirely but shares many properties with true ginseng. All of the ginsengs are adaptogenic herbs, meaning they produce nonspecific resistance for the body. Although ginseng's energy-producing properties can benefit someone with cancer, scientific evidence indicates it has more specific uses.10
A recent cell study by Tadahir Takeda from Kanazawa University in Ishikawa, Japan, showed that polysaccharides from panax boost production of the immune-stimulating cytokine interleukin-8. Both leukemic human monocytes (types of blood cells) and normal human monocytes were incubated with panax extracts for 24 hours. Researchers then measured the amount of IL-8 in the cells. The ginseng significantly increased the amount of IL-8 secreted from these cells compared to cells not incubated with ginseng.12
A purified polysaccharide of panax, called ginsan, has several immunomodulating effects on mouse cells that are similar to the effects of the naturally occurring cytokine interleukin-2. Ginsan activates T and B lymphocytes and macrophages and converts spleen cells into activated killer cells that destroy tumor cells. When ginsan was injected into mice with induced lung cancer, it significantly reduced the number of tumors?by 44 percent?compared with mice that did not receive ginsan. When mice were given ginsan in their drinking water, the tumors also decreased, but only by 15 percent. Ginsan had no detectable toxicity.13
Customers should discuss using ginseng with their physician because the herb can decrease blood platelet clotting. When taken in conjunction with chemotherapy, bleeding problems may occur.
Astragalus
In Chinese medicine, astragalus (Astragalus membranaceous) is considered an adaptogenic herb.14 A 1988 experiment indicated astragalus extract increased the ability of interleukin-2 to kill cultured tumor cells.15 A more recent study at the Hiroshima University School of Medicine in Japan showed that a water-based astragalus extract, when incubated with mouse spleen cells, had several immunopotentiating effects. It increased B cell growth, T cell activity, and interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor and antibody production.16
Astragalus also protects the body against drug toxicity. In one animal study, a combination of astragalus and wintergreen (Pyrola rotundifolia) prevented damage to the kidney and to the cochlear nerves and hair cells of the inner ear caused by the antibiotic gentamicin, commonly prescribed for pneumonia and sepsis.17
Astragalus is included in a Chinese herbal medicine referred to as 10 significant tonic decoction or SQT (Shi-Quan-Da-Bu-Tang). It is a 10-herb combination recommended in conjunction with cancer therapy to protect the body from drug toxicity and increase immunity. According to Chinese research, astragalus prevents the adverse effects of the anti-cancer drugs mitomycin C and cisplatin as well as stimulates the immune system.18 The herb is more commonly used in Asia as an adjuvant to cancer treatments.
Green Tea
Although it is better known as a cancer preventive, preliminary studies suggest green tea (Camellia sinensis) also may be a useful treatment for cancer or an adjuvant to chemotherapy.19 Green tea contains catechins, antioxidantlike polyphenolic compounds, that can inhibit the spread of cancer.20
A recent animal study by Sadao Hirota from the University of Shizuoka in Japan showed that, when taken with chemotherapy, steeped green tea also enhanced the therapeutic effects of the drugs. Mice with cancer were treated with the widely used anti-tumor drug doxorubicin and given green tea orally. After 18 days, tumor size in the green tea plus doxorubicin-group decreased 37 percent compared with 25 percent in the mice given only doxorubicin. Researchers found that the concentration of doxorubicin increased in the tumors of animals receiving the green tea but not in normal tissue, which may explain the drug's increased effectiveness.21
Echinacea
Many laboratory studies document echinacea's (Echinacea spp.) traditional use as an immune stimulator. The active polysaccharide fraction of echinacea increases phagocytosis, or ingestion of foreign particles, and stimulates production of the cytokines interleukin-1, interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor.22
One human study by Wolfram Grimm of Philipps University in Marburg, Germany, showed that echinacea had some ability to prevent upper respiratory tract infections and shorten their duration. His double-blind study of 109 people showed that taking 4 mL of E. purpurea extract twice daily for eight weeks decreased the risk of infection by 22 percent and shortened the duration of colds by two days.23 Although the improvement is modest, it may have important implications to someone on chemotherapy. Some herbalists, however, warn that using echinacea for long periods can decrease immunity. Herbalist Christopher Hobbs suggests using echinacea for only a week or 10 days at a time.24
Another study using cells from healthy volunteers, chronic fatigue syndrome patients and AIDS patients, showed that combined extracts of panax and echinacea enhanced natural killer cell function, an important component of cellular immunity. This was true for all the cells.25
Although echinacea is usually recommended for upper respiratory tract infections and there is little data on its use as an adjuvant to chemotherapy, it is reasonable to expect its immune-enhancing effects to decrease the risk of infection in people receiving cancer treatments.
Garlic
Garlic (Allium sativum) may be an effective adjuvant treatment for cancer because of its effects on the liver, tumor cells and the immune system.10
Its ability to reduce the side effects of cancer treatment was demonstrated in an animal study in which garlic given orally to rats significantly reduced liver damage caused by the cancer-causing aflatoxins found in molds.26 Researchers speculate that because garlic enhances the activity of glutathione S-transferase, a liver enzyme that helps detoxify and remove toxins from the body, it may detoxify aflatoxins before they cause damage.
A more recent study by Dale Riggs at West Virginia University in Morgantown indicated aged garlic extracts are effective against bladder cancer. Garlic extracts were injected four times during a one-week period into mice with bladder cancer. The mice showed significant reduction in tumor growth compared with mice that did not receive injections. Garlic extract was also effective when given orally. High doses of garlic (greater than 12.5 mL per injection) caused toxicity, but effective doses (6.3 mL) did not cause side effects.27 When garlic extracts were given orally in the animals' drinking water (29 mL/day), tumors decreased significantly with no side effects.
In another experiment, a water-soluble extract of fresh garlic given orally to mice for five days prior to gamma-radiation treatment protected against the chromosomal damage caused by treatment.28
With luck, researchers will continue to find inexpensive and nontoxic BRMs. In addition to their usefulness as adjuvants to chemotherapy, such herbs may also help treat AIDS, chronic fatigue syndrome and other immune-depressing diseases. Although inferring meaningful effects for humans from laboratory and animal studies is not easy, in most cases these herbs have few side effects when compared to pharmaceuticals and are generally safe to use. Advise customers to talk to their doctors before pursuing supplemental cancer treatments so that potential side effects, as well as therapeutic effects, can be monitored. Many of these treatments require injections that should be administered only by a qualified medical professional.
Sidebars:
Homeopathy & Chemotherapy
The Mushroom Angle
Cindy L.A. Jones, Ph. D., is a freelance writer and author of The Antibiotic Alternative due out soon from Healing Arts Press. She lives in Colorado where she teaches and writes.
References
1. Nair SC, et al. Modulatory effects of Crocus sativus and Nigella sativa extracts on cisplatin-induced toxicity in mice. J Ethnopharmacol 1991;31:75-83.
2.Worthen DR, et al. The in vitro anti-tumor activity of some crude and purified components of blackseed, Nigella sativa L. Anticancer Res 1998;18:1527-32.
3. Medenica R, et al. Anti-angiogenic activity of Nigella sativa plant extract in cancer therapy. Proc Annu Meet Am Assoc Cancer Res 1997;38:A1377.
4. Haq A, et al. Immunomodulatory effect of Nigella sativa proteins fractionated by ion exchange chromatography. Intl J Immunopharm 1999;21:283-95.
5. Nagi MN, et al. Thymoquinone protects against carbon tetrachloride hepatotoxicity in mice via an antioxidant mechanism. Biochem Mol Biol Int 1999;47:153-9.
6. Dr. Duke's Phytochemical and Ethnobotanical Databases, Agricultural Research Service http://www.ars-grin.gov/duke/.
7. Vigushin DM, et al. Phase I and pharmacokinetic study of D-limonene in patients with advanced cancer. Cancer research campaign phase I/II clinical trials committee. Cancer Chemother Pharmacol 1998;42:111-7.
8. Grieve M. A modern herbal. Mineola (NY): Dover Publications; 1971; 547-8.
9. Newall CA, et al. In: Herbal medicines, a guide for health-care professionals. London: The Pharmaceutical Press; 1996. 193-6.
10. Kaegi E. Unconventional therapies for cancer: 3. Iscador. Canadian Med Assn J. 1998;158:1157-9.
11. Stein GM, et al. Thionins from Viscum album L: influence of the viscotoxins on the activation of granulocytes. Anticancer Research 1999; 19:1037-42.
12. Sonoda Y, et al. Stimulation of interleukin-8 production by acidic polysaccharides from the root of Panax ginseng. Immunopharmacology 1998;38:287-94.
13. Lee YS, et al. Activation of multiple effector pathways of immune system by the anti-neoplastic immunostimulator acidic polysaccharide ginsan isolated from Panax ginseng. Anticancer Res 1997;17:323-31.
14. Sinclair S. Chinese herbs: a clinical review of Astragalus, Ligusticum, and Schizandrae. Alt Med Rev 1998;3:338-44.
15. Chu DT, et al. Fractionated extract of Astragalus membranaceous, a Chinese medicinal herb, potentiates LAK cell cytotoxicity generated by a low dose of recombinant interleukin-2. J Clin Lab Immunol 1988b;26:183-7.
16. Yoshida Y, et al. Immunomodulating activity of Chinese medicinal herbs and Oldenlandia diffusa in particular. Int J Immunopharm 1997;19:359-70.
17. Xuan W. Effects of compound injection of Pyrola rotundifolia L. and Astragalus membranaceous Bge on experimental guinea pigs' gentamicin ototoxicity. Ann Otol Rhinol Laryngol 1995;104:374-80.
18.Zee-Cheng R, Shi-Quan-da-bu-tang (ten significant tonic decoction), SQT. A potent Chinese biological response modifier in cancer immunotherapy, potentiation and detoxification of anticancer drugs. Meth Find Exp Clin Pharmacol 1992;14:725-36.
19. Kaegi E. Unconventional therapies for cancer: Canadian Med Assn J 1998;158:1033-5.
20. Jankun J, et al. Why drinking green tea could prevent cancer. Nature 1997;387:561.
21.Sadzuka Y, et al. Modulation of cancer chemotherapy by green tea. Clin Cancer Res 1998;4:153-6.
22. Pepping J. Alternative therapies, Echinacea. Am J Health-Syst Pharm 1999;56:121-2.
23. Grimm W, Hans-Helge M. A randomized controlled trial of the effect of fluid extract of Echinacea purpurea on the incidence and severity of colds and respiratory infections. Amer J Med 1999;106:138-43.
24. Hobbs C. Handmade medicines. Loveland (CO): Interweave Press; 1998, 23.
25. DM, et al. In vitro effects of echinacea and ginseng on natural killer and antibody-dependent cell cytotoxicity in healthy subjects and chronic fatigue syndrome or acquired immunodeficiency syndrome patients. Immunopharmacology 1997;35:229-35.
26. Soni KB, et al. Protective effect of food additives on aflatoxin-induced mutagenicity and hepatocarcinogenicity. Cancer Letters 1997;115:129-33.
27. Riggs DR, et al. Allium sativum (garlic) treatment for murine transitional cell carcinoma. Cancer 1997;79:1987-94.
28. Singh SP. Radioprotection of mice following garlic pretreatment. British J of Cancer 1996;74(Suppl):S102-4.
ladycolorado
View More Posts Ignore Reply #3 - 02/11/08 2:01pm
Cultivation of black seed has been traced back more than 3,000 years to the kingdom of the Assyrians and ancient Egyptians. A bottle of black cumin oil was found in the tomb of King Tutankhamun, perhaps to protect the ruler in the afterlife.
Black cumin was a vital ingredient in many Egyptian dishes. Physicians of the pharaohs used the seeds as a digestive aid after opulent feasts and as a remedy for colds, headaches, toothaches, infections, inflammatory disorders and allergies. Black seed oil has been a beauty secret of women since ancient times. Queen Nefertiti, praised for her exquisite complexion, was an avid user of black seed oil.
Pliny the Elder crushed black seeds, mixed them with vinegar and honey, and applied the paste to snake bites and scorpion stings.
Black cumin and its oil have been used to purge parasites and worms, detoxify, ameliorate amoebic dysentery, shigellosis, abscesses, old tumors, ulcers of the mouth and rhinitis. Recent research confirms these uses for humans, dogs, cats and horses.
Modern Research
More than 200 university studies conducted since 1959 attest to the effectiveness of traditional uses of black seed. The essential oil of N. sativa seeds is antimicrobial and successful in the ratification of intestinal worms. In vitro studies in Jordan and the United States have shown its volatile oil to be anti-leukemic. Other studies suggest this same active ingredient may serve as an immune-system booster and is proven effective in treating asthma and whooping cough.
Black seed is a complex substance of more than 100 compounds, some of which have not yet been identified or studied. A combination of fatty acids, volatile oils and trace elements are believed to contribute to its effectiveness. As for all the benefits packed into this tiny seed waiting to be discovered, ongoing research will have to judge.
Applying the Oil
Numerous external and internal applications exist (consult a medicinal herb reference book or an herbalist for specifics). Black seed is included in recipes for everything from teas, cough syrups and wound salves to compresses, massage oil combinations and products for internal use. Topical black seed preparations, such as soaps, lotions, shampoo, scalp treatments, acne gels and bath salts, are available for those who do not wish to make them (see source list to right).
Because the oil has a strong flavor, it is best mixed with honey. Herbal teas also help dilute its strength. Black seed honey mixtures also may be purchased and used to make instant tea.
HERE IS SOME MORE ON IT: Black Cumin Seeds: Benefits and Side Effects
Black cumin seed is derived from a plant with the botanical name Nigella sativa. The plant is indigenous to Mediterranean areas, though it is grown in other parts of the world as well. The seeds of the Nigella sativa plant are black in color and look something like sesame seeds. Both the seeds and oil from the seeds are used as a nutritional supplement. Black cumin seed is considered to have a number of beneficial properties when used as part of an overall holistic health program. Many studies show that, while black cumin seed is effective by itself, it is particularly potent when combined with other herbs in regimens used to treat specific ailments.
Black cumin seed (also referred to simply as ?black seed?) has been used as a nutritional supplement for centuries. It was even found in King Tut?s tomb, suggesting that even centuries ago, great respect existed for black cumin seed?s beneficial health effects. Ancient traditions document the use of black cumin seed as an energy source, perhaps because of its rich nutritional value. The seeds are still believed to increase heat in the body, making metabolism more efficient.
As a nutritional supplement in modern times, black cumin seed is used to treat respiratory conditions like bronchitis, asthma and emphysema. In addition, it is used to support stomach and intestinal health as well as kidney and liver function. Black cumin seed is thought to have antihistamine-like properties that make it useful in treating congestion, and it is widely used as a general tonic to boost immune function and to help prevent cancer. Several skin conditions can be treated with black cumin seed, and it is also used to enhance circulation. Over the past six decades, black cumin seed has been studied at various universities throughout the world, and more than 200 studies support its use as an effective herbal supplement.
The primary active ingredient in black cumin seed is crystalline nigellone. The substance was first identified and isolated for use in supplements in 1959. Other components with health benefits include amino acids, essential fatty acids, crude fiber, and minerals such as potassium, sodium, iron and calcium.
The usual recommended dosage is between 50 and 75 mg of a supplement made from standardized extracts. Black cumin seed oil is also available as a nutritional supplement. The seeds are cold pressed to extract the oil, which is especially effective when used topically on the skin to treat eczema, psoriasis, and dryness.
Black cumin seed oil can also be taken internally to treat arthritis and asthma and to boost the immune system. The recommended dosage of the oil is one teaspoon daily with meals. It can be mixed with juice or other beverages and should be refrigerated after opening.
As with many supplements, black cumin seed works best when used on a regular basis so that it can support the body?s natural healing ability. Though there is no known toxicity, pregnant and lactating women should not use black cumin seed, which has a history of use in large doses to induce abortion.
HERE IS ANOTHER ARTICLE *note* that it kills parasites: 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.
