Variously
known as nigella, black cumin and kalonji, these aromatic black seeds are used
in curries and sprinkled on breads before baking. They are also revered as a medicine in the
Middle East. My friend Mohamed, an Egyptian perfume merchant, tells me there is
an Arabic belief that ‘in the black seed is the medicine for every disease
except death’. He tells me the traditional way of using the seeds as medicine
is to take some in a teaspoon in honey every morning. I have tried this, and
can report they have a bitter astringency that I find challenging.
Since nigella
is recommended as a medicine for every disease, there are countless claims to
its therapeutic use, including indigestion, fatigue, chest congestion,
diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis and asthma.
As a
practicing herbalist, I like to look at the scientific research to see whether
it validates traditional uses of herbal medicines. A controlled study published
in 2006 showed effectiveness in reducing symptoms of allergic rhinitis (hay
fever). It showed similar benefit to a pharmaceutical anti-histamine. A further
study showed significant improvement in immune function as measured in white
cell activity.
Another
study showed a 39% reduction in blood sugar levels in Type 2 Diabetics, with
improvement in insulin levels. In addition, research showed a significantly
decreased body weight and waist circumference in men with central obesity.
Preliminary research also showed
improvement in cholesterol and triglycerides with a tiny dose of .7 g of
powdered seed per day (less than ¼ teaspoon). Anti-tumour activity has been
found in one of the constituents of the seeds, but further research is needed.
In the
clinic I have found wonderful results with nigella in a herbal mix when
treating chronic and acute sinus problems. I combine it with other herbs to obtain
the best results. I also include it in weight loss mixtures. Nigella has only recently been manufactured
in a liquid tincture form. This is a non-traditional form of an ancient
medicine. Tinctures are extracted in
alcohol and water to get the maximum active ingredients from the plant. Alcohol
is not used in the Middle East, even in perfumes, because of cultural beliefs. However I love the benefit of the liquid
tincture in combining it with herbs of my choice to get the best therapeutic
outcome. Having said that, nigella is a safe general tonic taken traditionally
in a teaspoon of honey every day.
