HISTORY
Name: Black cumin, also known as Nigella sativa, has a long and rich history of use in traditional medicine and culinary practices. Here's a brief overview of its history:
Ancient Egypt
Black cumin seeds were found in the tomb of King Tutankhamun and were believed to have been used to support overall health and wellness.
Islamic Medicine
Black cumin has been highly valued in Islamic medicine for centuries, and is mentioned in the Hadith, a collection of sayings and traditions of the Prophet Muhammad. It was believed to have a wide range of health benefits, including supporting digestion, respiratory function, and immune system health.
Greek and Roman Medicine
Black cumin was also used in ancient Greek and Roman medicine, and was believed to have a number of medicinal properties. It was often used to support digestive health, as well as to promote overall wellness.
​Culinary Use
In addition to its medicinal uses, black cumin has also been used in culinary practices throughout history. It is a common ingredient in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine, and is often used to flavor breads, stews, and other dishes.
ACTIVE COMPOUNDS
Thymoquinone
The most well-known and studied compound in black cumin is thymoquinone, which has been found to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. Thymoquinone has also been shown to have potential therapeutic effects on several conditions, including asthma, diabetes, and cancer.
Essential oils
Black cumin contains several essential oils, including p-cymene, carvacrol, and thymol, which have been found to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Flavonoids
Black cumin contains several flavonoids, including kaempferol and quercetin, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Nigellidine
Black cumin also contains nigellidine, which has been found to have potential anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.
HEALTH BENEFITS
Immune system support
Black cumin contains compounds that have been found to have immune system-boosting properties, which may help protect against infections and other diseases.
Anti-inflammatory properties
Black cumin contains compounds that have been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help reduce inflammation and alleviate symptoms of conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and asthma.
Cardiovascular health
Some studies have suggested that black cumin may have potential benefits for cardiovascular health, including reducing blood pressure, improving lipid profiles, and reducing the risk of heart disease.
Blood sugar control
Some studies have suggested that black cumin may have blood sugar-lowering properties, which may be beneficial for people with diabetes or at risk of developing diabetes.
Anti-cancer properties
Some studies have suggested that black cumin may have anti-cancer properties and may help prevent the development and spread of certain types of cancer
CLINICAL STUDIES
Immune system support
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the Journal of Immunoassay and Immunochemistry found that black cumin supplementation improved immune system markers in healthy subjects.
Diabetes management
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism found that black cumin oil supplementation improved glycemic control and lipid profiles in patients with type 2 diabetes.
Asthma management
A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in the Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology found that black cumin oil supplementation improved asthma control and lung function in patients with mild to moderate asthma
