Advancement in Medicinal Plant Research

Vol. 4(2), pp. 27-57, April 2016

ISSN: 2354-2152
Review

Nigella sativa (black seed) is an effective herbal remedy

for every disease except death – a Prophetic statement
which modern scientists confirm unanimously: A
review
Deena AS Hussain1 and M. Musharraf Hussain2*
1
Department of Biochemistry, Shaheed Monsur Ali Medical College, Plot # 26 & 26A, Road # 10, Sector # 11, Uttara
Model Town, Dhaka 1230, Bangladesh.
2
National Foundation of Prophetic Medicine, 44/6, Maddha Paikpara, Mirpur, Dhaka 1216, Bangladesh.
Accepted 11 April, 2016

ABSTRACT

The use of plants for the treatment of human illnesses is since time-immemorial. According to a hadith
narrated by Ibn „Abbâs (ra), Prophet Muhammad (‫ )ﷺ‬said that Prophet Sulaymân (as) recorded the names
and uses of many herbal remedies after finishing the construction of his temple (Ibn „Asâkir,
MukhtaṣarTâreekhDimashq, 3:393). Prophet Muhammad (‫ )ﷺ‬too made specific statements on 65 medicinal
plants, herbs and shrubs while making prescriptions for the sick people. Among the plants he prescribed
Nigella sativa is the most important. About this plant he said, “Black seed is a remedy (cure) for all diseases
(ailments) except death” (An authentic hadith narrated by Abu Hurayrah (ra) and recorded by Bukhari,
Muslim, Ahmad and Ibn Majah). This Prophetic statement generated tremendous interest among the world‟s
scientific community. Their question was, how an unlettered man of the desert without having any pen and
paper, could make such a wonderful statement on medical science and pharmacy. Moreover, the Prophet
(‫ )ﷺ‬made the statement at a time when scientific concept about the use of medicinal plants for the treatment
of human illnesses and alleviation of their sufferings was not developed until many centuries later. The
statement finally led the scientific community to carry out extensive phytochemical and biological
investigations on the black seed and its oil. The researchers conducted laboratory experiments using intact
animals and clinical trials using human volunteers to substantiate the validity of the statement. However, it is
amazing that the researchers after carrying out hundreds of researches around the globe finally concluded
that the Prophet‟s statement is one hundred per cent true. Muslims consider black seed an effective
Prophetic medicine since it was recommended by Prophet Muhammad (‫ )ﷺ‬over 1400 years ago. The
Prophet (‫)ﷺ‬, in his divine wisdom, had made this very important statement. In this paper an effort has been
made to discuss the results of published scientific researches carried out on the black seed and its oil by
scientists of the world to confirm the truth of the statement.

Keywords: Nigella sativa, Nigella sativa oil and extract, black seed, medicinal plant, thymoquinone.
*Corresponding author. E-mail: [email protected]. Tel: 8802-903 4766 (Landline); 8801912 583 439 (Cellular).

INTRODUCTION

The following statement of Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬ information on the scientific researches carried out on
inspired the authors to write this review paper on Nigella Nigella sativa Linn. in the world. The aim of this review is
sativa Linn (black seed). Consequently an extensive therefore, to prove the truth and validity of the Prophet‟s
literature search has been made to find out the published statement on black seed. Another earliest written
 Adv Med Plant Res 28

reference to black seed is found in the book of Isaiah in

the Old Testament (Isaiah 28: 25, 27 NKJV), where it is
referred as “ketzah”, a spice for bread and cakes that can
be used in many ways.
Abu Hurayrah (ra) narrates that Prophet Muhammad
(‫ )ﷺ‬said,

“Use this black seed regularly; because, it is a

remedy (cure) for every disease except death.”
(Reference: Sahih Al-Bukhari 71:591, 592;
Sahih Muslim 26: 5489). Figure 1. Nigella sativa seed.

We all know that like all other Prophets of God, nothing

but truth came out from the mouth of Prophet Muhammad
(‫)ﷺ‬. The Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬never spoke a single lie in his entire
lifetime of 63 years. That is why he earned the title „Al-
Amin‟ meaning Trustworthy from everybody irrespective
of their religious faiths and tribes. So his statements on
healing are also true, and modern medical science is now
proving it through research after 14 centuries. One
wonders how an unlettered man of the desert without
having any pen and paper, could make such a wonderful
statement on medical science? About Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬
Almighty God (Allah) says in the Holy Qur‟an, “He does
not speak anything of his own desire…” (Surah An-Najm
53:3). In other words, whatever he speaks are nothing
but divinely inspired words. Since Islam is a complete Figure 2. Nigella sativa plant flower.
and divine way of human life; it must contain some
aspects of health and wellness, sickness and cure, and
disease and treatment in it. That is why God (Allah)
inspired Muhammad (‫ )ﷺ‬to make over 1000 statements
of healing for the benefit of man for his transient stay on
the earth; because man needs to remain well, free from
sickness to fulfill his brief mission on earth. However, it is
very amazing that not a single statement of the Prophet
(‫ )ﷺ‬on healing is found to be contradictory to the basic
principles of modern medical science and pharmacy.

BACKGROUND AND HISTORY OF THE PLANT Figure 3. Bioactive compound

NIGELLA SATIVA LINN. Thymoquinone (TQ) from Nigella
sativa extract.
Identification of the plant

The Arabic name of Nigella sativa Linn. is Habbatus was called „Panacea‟ meaning „cure all‟ (Figures 1 to 3).
Sauda or Habbat al Baraka‟. It is also known around the It is known as „Kalijeera‟ (Bangladesh), „Kalonji‟ (in India)
world by many other names because of its ancient and „Hak Jung Chou‟ (China). The common English
popular history and medicinal value. It is known as black name for Nigella sativa is Love in a Mist. Nigella sativa is
caraway, roman coriander, carvi (French), a member of the Ranunculacae family (Khan et al.,
schwarzkummel (German), kalonji (Hindi/Urdu), kezah 2011).
(Hebrew) chernushka (Russian), corek-out (Turkish),
siyahdaneh (Persian) etc.
It is an annual herbaceous plant. The name N. sativa N. sativa has been used by millions of people
comes from the Latin word, nigellus, meaning black. It is throughout the ages
translated as „Seeds of Blessing‟. Black cumin has even
been described as a “miracle herb”. The seed is called Black cumin seeds have been used to successfully keep
black cumin or black seed in English, while in old Latin it people super healthy – for over 3,300 years. It is one of
 Hussain and Hussain 29

the earliest cultivated plants in human history, which 1FD. United Kingdom, http://www.shifalife.com/etrading
means it was one of the early providers of life. The /black_seed.jsp). Hippocrates (5th century B.C.) regarded
miracle seed has been used by millions of people to treat N. sativa as a valuable remedy in hepatic and digestive
various ailments for centuries in different parts of world disorders. His list of remedies includes the treatment of
especially, in Mediterranean, Middle East, and India, snakebites and scorpion stings, old tumours, abscesses,
Pakistan, Bangladesh and also in Europe. Black seeds and skin rashes. (http://theblessedseed.com/learn-
have also been used for cooking for thousands of years. more/history/). Greek physician, Dioscorides used black
cumin seed to treat headaches, nasal congestion,
toothache and intestinal parasites (Hodges, 2016). He
Published books and articles on black seed also reported that they were used as a diuretic to
promote menstruation and increase milk production. He
Information from the United States data bank states that described the plant under the name, melanthion, in his 5-
more than 150 books and articles have been written in volume pharmacology “De MateriaMedica” which was
recent times by professionals about the physical and used as a reference for healing with herbs in the Middle
chemical properties of black seed. Likewise, extensive Ages (http://theblessedseed.com/learn-more/history/).
research continues in many universities and health Ibn Sina (980-1037) in his most famous book, "The
research centers in the Islamic world as well as in Canon of Medicine," refers to black seed as the seed
Western countries with regard to the many healing "that stimulates the body's energy and helps recovery
qualities of black seed. Recently the following seven from fatigue or dispiritedness." His views, still holds true
books have been published: for Tibb (Islamic Medicine) health practitioners today
(http://theblessedseed.com/learn-more/history/). Black
1. “Healing Power of Black Cumin” by Sylvia Luetjohann, seed has been an essential ingredient in Eastern
Twin Trees, WI: Lotus Light Publications, 1998, A medicine as well, especially Ayurveda. For thousands of
Handbook on Oriental Black Cumin Oils, Their Healing years, the seeds, oils and extracts of N. sativa have been
Components and Special Recipes, 156 pages. used as an anticancer agent by Unani, Ayurveda and the
2. “Black Cumin: The Magical Egyptian Herb for Allergies, Chinese systems of medicine (Khan, 2011).
Asthma, Skin Conditions and Immune Disorders” by Dr. The Muslim scholar al-Biruni (973-1048), who
M. Saleh (Egypt) and P. Schleicher (Germany), composed a treatise on the early origins of Indian and
Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 2000, 90 pages. Chinese drugs, mentions that the black seed is a kind of
3. “Black Seed: The "Miracle Herb" of the Century” by W. grain called „alwanak‟ in the Sigzi dialect. Later, this was
G. Goreja, published by Amazing Herbs Press, Jan 1, confirmed by SuharBakht who explained it to be habb-i-
2003, 54 pages. Sajzi (viz. Sigzi grains). This reference to black seed as
4. “Black Seed - A Cure For Every Disease Book”, Sweet "grains", points to the seed's possible nutritional use
Sunnah, A Cure for Every Disease But Death - A during the tenth and eleventh centuries
comprehensive guide to understanding and application of (http://theblessedseed.com/learn-more/history/).
one of the most powerful healing herbs in the world, 40 In the Greco-Arab/Unani-Tibb system of medicine,
Pages. which originated from Hippocrates, his contemporary
5. “The Benefits of Black Cumin, Black Cumin / Black Galen and Ibn Sina, black seed has been regarded as a
Seed / Nigella Sativa - Cure to All Diseases Revealed” by valuable remedy in hepatic and digestive disorders and
C ALBER, published by Tulip Publisher Group, has been described as a stimulant in a variety of
08/01/2012. conditions, ascribed to an imbalance of cold humours
6. “Black Seeds (Nigella sativa) - The Miraculous Healing (http://www.x35energy.com/history-black-seed.html).
Power for all Diseases”, Publisher: Um Hurairah, There have been reports of these “health giving” seeds
01/01/2012. used throughout history in the Middle East, the
7. “The Black Cumin Cancer Protocol” - Step-by-Step Mediterranean and India – from minor headaches and
Guidelines by Maria Hurairah, Barnes & Noble, skin irritations. It is regarded throughout the entire Middle
07/17/2014. East as one of the most powerful anti-inflammatory herbs
ever existing (https://www.facebook.com/1689633187947
465/photos/pcb.1691173497793434/1691172211126896/
ANCIENT AND CURRENT USES OF BLACK SEED AS ?type=3). The seed is believed to be indigenous to the
PREVENTIVE AND CURATIVE REMEDIES Mediterranean but is cultivated in other parts of the world
including North Africa, the Middle East and parts of Asia.
It has been reported that Hippocrates, Dioscorides and Traditionally, black cumin has been used for immune-
Pliny the Elder all showed appreciation for the preventive system support, well-being, digestive health, respiratory
and curative powers of black seed (Black seed, the issues, kidney and liver support, and heart health. In Asia
Magical Herb, Shifa Lifeherbs International (UK), Suite and the Middle East, black cumin seeds have long been
282, Parkers House, 48 Regent Street. Cambridge CB2 used to treat asthma, bronchitis, rheumatism and other
 Adv Med Plant Res 30

inflammatory diseases. seeds as a treatment to stop vomiting (Ahmad et al.,

2013)

Clinical use of black seed oil in the West

Summary of the current clinical uses of black seed
In the West, the effect of the oil has been used for a long and its oil
time against wind, dysentery, stomach and lung disease,
jaundice, diuretic problems and to increase a nursing Black cumin seed oil is quickly becoming the best health
mother‟s milk. According to Dr. Schleicher, the reason product for millions of people internationally (Clark,
why this oil is so exceptional is that its component parts 2014). The majority of our health problems have the
act in unison to produce an optimum effect for so many same causes-infection by micro-organisms such as
complaints. However, one has to make sure that only the bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi. When using
pure and tested oil is being used. Schleicher‟s colleagues allopathic medicines each symptom is treated individually
have reacted very positively after the publication about and usually with synthetic chemically manufactured
his success with patients who have used the black seed medicines.
oil. Professor G. Rietmuller, Director of Institute for Black seed is found effective at treating the body as a
immunology at the University of Munich believes that this whole and fights the actual cause of the symptoms. Black
plant extract works positively on the immune system and seed regulates too weak or too strong reactions of the
could be used as a bio-regulator. Professor Michael immune system and is excellent for treating chronic,
Meurer of the Dermatology Clinic in Munich has for a long allergic and hormonal diseases. It uses are many as well
time been convinced about the success of this oil. From as its benefit. Black seed supports metabolism, improves
his experience the oil helps stop inflammation and helps digestion, and lowers blood sugar levels. It is used to
with neurodermitis (http://www.healthymuslim.com/ dispel worms and parasites from intestinal track. It is
articles/mdhpn-black-seed-oil-nigella-sativa-and-its- useful in soothing bronchitis and coughs. It increases
disease-preventing-effects.cfm). body tone, stimulates menstrual periods, increases the
flow of breast milk, provides quick energy, increases
sperm count, calms the nervous system, encourages hair
Ancient uses of black seeds by ancient Egyptians growth and retards hair fall out, prevents skin wrinkling,
and much more. Studies have shown that black seed oil
It has been reported that Cleopatra used it as its health contains antioxidants that protect the body from free
beauty giving quality. Queen Nefertiti used black seed oil radicals. Additionally black seed oil is a tremendous
to bring luster to her hair and nails. Hippocrates used it to source of essential fatty acids. Adding this natural
assist with digestive and metabolic disorders. King remedy to your daily routine is an excellent way to
Tutankhamen kept a bottle of black seed oil in his tomb, maintain great health (http://www.blackseedproducts.com
presumably to protect him in the afterlife. Physicians in /faqs/9-what-are-the-benefits-of-black-seed.html).
Pharaohs‟ times used black seed as a remedy for colds, Black seed oil is dark in colour with a pungent herbal
headaches, respiratory and digestive disorders, scent that is popular in preparations for acne, burns and
toothaches, infections, inflammatory disorders and wrinkles and is often used in Middle Eastern cooking as a
allergies (GreenMedInfo January 3, 2013). spice or a topping. Black seed is cultivated in Russia,
Turkey, Egypt, Arabia, Oman, Ethiopia, Middle East,
India, Bangladesh, France, and Germany (Larita, 2016).
Clinical use of black seed by Unani and Ayurvedic Black seeds are now used as skin care naturals. Some
physicians use it for healthy hair and nails and to restore good
health. Skincare Naturals said that black seed is a
All eminent Unani and Ayurvedic physicians of the past wonderful oil to use in a Gardener‟s Skin Balm due to its
and present have written a lot on the medicinal benefits healing, pain relief and skin conditioning properties.
and healing properties of black seed. Its traditional Black cumin seed oil inhibits cancer cell activity and
applications range from skincare to digestion and fertility. can even kill some types of cancer cells. Scientific
There has not been a period among the Muslims of the research has shown that black seed oil is an effective
world, when its use was ever stopped. At all times, the treatment for cancer in animal studies. Black seed oil and
seed was utilized with the belief and faith that benefits will its extract have powerful benefits for various inflammatory
be derived in practicing the Traditions (Sunnah) of the diseases including various types of cancer. Black cumin
Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬with regard to the use of black seed. A seed oil and its extract thymoquinone have powerful
tincture of the seeds has traditionally been used to treat benefits for various inflammatory diseases including liver
indigestion, loss of appetite, diarrhea, parasitic infections cancer, melanoma skin cancer, pancreatic cancer,
and skin problems. An external application of black cumin cervical cancer, breast cancer, bone cancer, stomach
oil has even been used as an antiseptic and roasted cancer, lymphoma, prostate cancer, colon cancer, and
 Hussain and Hussain 31

brain cancer (Thomas, 2014). Black cumin is a rich acids including nine essential ones, carbohydrates,
source of essential fatty acids – omega 3 and omega 6, essential fatty acid (EFA) including linoleic, lilolenic and
the building blocks of cells, and used for relief of acne, oleic acids, vitamins A, B1, B2, C and niacin as well as
psoriasis, eczema and pain (http://www.essen\tialoilsof calcium, sodium, potassium, iron, magnesium, zinc and
topeka.com/product/423). The modern scientific research selenium. A renowned scientist from Germany, Wagner
with the investigation of its anticancer activity has been writes: “Black seed oil has a rich composition of proteins,
conducted only for the last 20 years. Scientific databases minerals, vitamins, enzymes, carbohydrates and fats.
like PubMed, Web of Science and Google scholar have Almost all of its fat content is in the form of omega-3 and
summarized the current scientific information about the omega-6 fatty acids. These play a vital part in forming
anticancer activities of N. sativa with their mechanisms of Prostaglandin (PG) E1 which balances and strengthens
action. the immune system giving it the power to prevent
N. sativa has been used as traditional medicine for infections and allergies and control chronic illnesses.”
centuries. The crude oil and thymoquinone (TQ) The seed oil also contains beta sitosterol, myristic acid,
extracted from its seeds are effective against many palmitic acid, stearic acid, palmitoleic acid, oleic acid,
diseases like cancer, cardiovascular complications, linoleic acid (omega-6), linolenic acid (omega-3),
diabetes, asthma, kidney disease etc. It is effective arachidonic acid, proteins and vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6
against cancer in blood system, lung, kidney, liver, and folacin. They also contain calcium, folic acid, iron,
prostate, breast, cervix, skin with much safety (Khan et copper, zinc and phosphorous. The high content of
al., 2011). Scientists in Germany have confirmed the anti- phytosterols found in black cumin oil – are also
bacterial and antimycotic effects of black seed oil necessary for the human body for natural production of
(http://www.blackseedproducts.com/faqs/11-has-there- hormones, provitamin D and bile acid – aiding in a
been-any-scientific-research-done-on-black-seed.html). prevention of endocrine disorders, immune deficiency
and the number one killer disease (cardiac attack). Black
seed is comprised of approximately 21% protein, 38%
RESULTS OF THE PHYTOCHEMICAL AND carbohydrates, and 35% plant fats and oils. These are
BIOLOGICAL STUDIES OF BLACK SEED the most essential nutrients, which are needed for
sustenance.
Black seed contains over 100 phytochemical The three natural phytochemical compounds in black
constituents seed oil that produce a tremendous benefit that
researchers were very surprised to discover. These three
In one study it is reported that remarkably, black seed compounds are thymoquinone (TQ), thymohydroquinone
contains over 100 healing components, which work (THQ) and thymol (THY). The seed contains both fixed
together to produce a synergetic effect. Out of this only and essential oils, proteins, alkaloids and saponin (Ali
sixty-nine have been characterized and identified. and Blunden, 2003). Ghosheh et al. (1999) described the
Research has shown that this complex interaction of over quantification of four pharmacologically important
100 components gives black seed tremendous components: thymoquinone (TQ), dithymoquinone
synergistic power to support the immune system and (DTQ), thymohydroquinone (THQ), and thymol (THY), in
strengthen the body‟s constitution in a way no single the oil of N. sativa seed by HPLC. Other bioactive
substance has ever been known to accomplish. compounds in the seed include α-hederin, alkaloids,
Dr. Michael Tierra LAC. O.M.D, author of Planetary flavonoids, antioxidants and fatty acids.
Herbology, writes: “Black seed is truly a remarkable herb
that has been used for over 3000 years. It contains over
100 valuable components. It is a significant source of Pharmacological activities of black seeds and its oil
essential fatty acids, proteins, carbohydrates and other
vitamins and minerals. The seeds are also rich in sterols; Scientist Wagner further writes that two of the most
especially beta-sitosterol which is known to have anti- volatile oils found in black seed are nigellone and
carcinogenic activity” (http://www.beautifulislam.net/black thymoquinone. Nigellone offers both anti-spasmodic and
seed/black_seed_benefits_p.html). broncho-dilating properties which contribute to black
The active ingredients of black seed are thymoquinone, seed‟s potency against respiratory ailments. It also acts
dithymoquinone, thymohydroquinone, nigellone, thymol as an antihistamine which helps to reduce the negative
and fixed oils. Mahfouz and El-Dakhakhny, prominent symptoms of allergy sufferers. Thymoquinone contains
Egyptian researchers isolated the active principle excellent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is
nigellone from black seed's essential oil in 1959, which also a strong antioxidant and helps cleanse the body of
was responsible for black seed‟s broncho-dilating effect toxins” (Dawoud, 2015).
(Dawoud, 2015). For upper respiratory conditions, at least a few of its
The magazine Food Chemistry found black seed to be constituents have shown an antihistamine-like action,
high in proteins and amino acids. It contains 15 amino which explains is positive effects for upper respiratory
 Adv Med Plant Res 32

diseases including asthma, bronchitis, and cough. The that include an increase in both the packed cell volume
oils of the seed increase milk flow which explains its folk (PCV) and hemoglobin (Hb), and a decrease in plasma
use as a galactagogue. In large quantities, however, the concentrations of cholesterol, triglycerides and glucose.
seeds have also been used for abortion The seeds are characterized by a very low degree of
(http://www.blackseedproducts.com/faqs/9-what-are-the- toxicity.
benefits-of-black-seed.html).
The oil of N. sativa is so beneficial due to its content of
over a hundred components such as aromatic oils, trace RESULTS OF THE MODERN SCIENTIFIC STUDIES
elements, vitamins and enzymes. It contains 58% of USING LABORATORY ANIMALS, ISOLATED ANIMAL
essential fatty acids including omega 6 and omega 3. TISSUES AND ALSO HUMAN SUBJECTS
These are necessary for the forming of Prostaglandin E1
which balances and strengthens the immune system Scientific studies on N. sativa
giving it the power to prevent infections and allergies and
control chronic illnesses. Healthy cells are protected from Black seed has been used for more than 2000 years for a
viruses thus inhibiting tumors (http://www.asianhealth wide array of diseases including diabetes, Alzheimer's
secrets.com/black-cumin-seeds/). disease and even migraines. Originally it was used for
Black seed oil contains about 0.5 to 1.5% volatile oils allergies, asthma and migraines, but as the world began
including nigellone and thymochinone which are to discover its many wonderful qualities, studies and
responsible for its antihistamine, antioxidant, anti- research projects spread. In the last 50 years there have
infective and broncho-dilating effects. The healing secrets been more than 450 studies done on this miraculous
of black seed oil are due to medicinal properties such as seed. (http://nigellasativa.weebly.com/black-cumin-
immune-stimulant, anti-bacterial, antifungal, anti- protocol-for-diabetes.html).
ulcerative, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-tumourous, Professor Peter Schleicher, M.D., a renowned
antipyretic, hypoglycemic, immunomodulatory, anti- immunologist in Munich said, "Calling black cumin a
hypertensive, antidepressant, antispasmoic, magical cure would certainly be an exaggeration, but it is
hepatoprotective, anti-parasitic etc (Javed, 2010). almost impossible not to exaggerate its effectiveness"
Dr. Med. Peter Schleicher, an immunologist in Munich, (Saleh and Schleicher, 2000).
who was nominated as the youngest member of the
World Academy of Scientists in 1986, examined black
seed oil in his institute to find new therapies for chronic Highest number of scientific studies done on N.
illness and its effect. His findings are identical to those in sativa
previous studies by earlier researchers. Schleicher
discovered by using black seed oil, valuable unsaturated Nigella sativa is the only plant on the face of the earth on
fatty acids, for example linoleic and gamma linolenic which highest number of studies had been carried out. In
acids, get into the organism. By that, it is possible to fact, since 1964, there have been 656 published, peer-
reach a synthesis of important immune regulating reviewed studies referencing to involving black cumin –
substances derived from prostaglandin E1. Linoleic acid confirming what Middle Eastern and North African
stabilizes the cell membranes and prostaglandin has the cultures have known for thousands of years (Ji, 2013).
effect of inhibiting inflammation. They stop the immune Up to now, there have been well over 600 peer-reviewed
reactions that cause illnesses that could further lead to scientific articles related to the benefits of black seed oil
many chronic illnesses like acne, hay fever and even ranging from its potential as a cancer treatment to its
cancer (Wagner, nd). ability to reduce blood pressure and the symptoms of
rheumatism (Seward, 2015).

Black cumin has at least 20 pharmacological actions

500 university research projects on black seed so far
Black cumin has a wide spectrum of pharmacological submitted by students for the award of degrees
actions that have been supported by science. Some of
them are anti-diabetic, anti-cancer, immunomodulator, Nigella sativa is the only plant on the face of the earth
analgesic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, that has been investigated by a large number of modern
bronchodilator, hepato-protective, renal protective, gastro- scientists. Nearly 500 university studies conducted since
protective and antioxidant properties (Ahmad et al., 2013). 1959 have confirmed the effectiveness and traditional
The seeds and oil have anti-inflammatory, analgesic, uses of this powerful seed. (https://www.facebook.com/
antipyretic, antimicrobial and anti-neoplastic activity. The media/set/?set=a.1637492209849179..3). Researches
oil decreases blood pressure and increases respiration. were also carried out at major international universities
Treatment of rats with the seed extract for up to 12 weeks and articles published in various scientific journals
has been reported to induce changes in the haemogram documenting the astonishing results of the black seed.
 Hussain and Hussain 33

Traditional uses of black seeds are supported by face of the earth, both phytochemically and pharmaco-
modern research logically. It is one of the few natural herbal remedies
found to have tremendous potential benefit. Today, more
With a long and amazing history of beneficial use, black and more medical scientists and professionals are
seed has been the subject of much modern research and recognizing the power of this amazing little seed. It was
the last few decades have provided scientific evidence for recently recommended as herbal remedy by the World
many of black seed‟s healing powers. Used traditionally Health Organization. The ongoing scientific research in
to support the immune system, aid digestion and soothe the West continues to show the positive results to
respiratory issues, black cumin now has scientific support generate excitement throughout the medical industry
for its use in the treatment and prevention of numerous (http://www.shifalife.com/etrading/black_ seed.jsp).
chronic diseases (Mercola, 2016). Recent scientific
research has now proved that the traditional uses of the
seed are fully justified. Black seed oil approved by US Food and Drug
Over the last five decades, there have been hundreds Administration as an immune system stimulant
of studies on black seed alone. A recent search on
MEDLINE for “Nigella sativa” resulted in over 500 studies In the spring of 1996, the U.S. Food and Drug
and research projects. This means that black seed is very Administration (FDA) granted a patent for the use of the
useful against a vast array of medical complaints from extracts of N. sativa Linn., commonly known as the black
those caused by bacteria or viruses, to common allergies seed or black cumin as an immune system stimulant. The
and its traditional applications range from skincare to patent was based on "a pharmaceutical composition
digestion and fertility. There have also been numerous containing an extract of the plant Nigella sativa for
ongoing researches on the effects of black seed. The treating cancer, preventing the side effects of anticancer
MEDLINE database (US National Library of Medicine) chemotherapy, and for increasing the immune functions
has recently documented 741 research projects on the in humans" (www.islamicbulletin.org/newsletters/issue).
seed of Nigella sativa. Some of the projects are already
completed and results published. Over 150 research
papers on black seed have been published in recent FDA recommends black seeds to prevent diseases
times confirming many of the healing properties traditiona and slow down aging process
lly attributed to black seed. The biomedical research on
black seed has continued to flourish, with another 78 Due to the presence of many nutrients, the FDA
studies published and cited on the National Library of recommends black seeds to help prevent disease and
Medicine's biomedical database MEDLINE over the past slow down the aging process (http://fatwa.islamweb.net
11 months (http://www.anintentionalife.com/a-natural- /en/article/157049/black-seed-nigella-sativa-a-cure-for-
treatment-this-black-seed-is-the-remedy-for-everything- every-disease). Dr. Michael Tierra, author of Planetary
but-death/). Herbology, found that in addition to nutrients, black seeds
also contain a remarkable number of sterols, especially
beta-sitosterol, which are known to have anti-
Scientific researches in Europe carcinogenic properties (http://www.islamweb.net/en/
article/157049/black-seed-nigella-sativa-a-cure-for-every-
In Europe ongoing scientific research has fueled disease). This substantiates its folk use for indurations
immense public interest into the health benefits of using and /or tumors of the abdomen, eyes and liver
black seed, where black seed supplements are sold in (http://ip.aaas.org/tekindex.nsf/2a9c4e44835b04ea85256
most health stores and it is popularly regarded as an a7200577a64/52d5f7ff4f08b46085256ae700755f3e/Body
effective alternative medicine. Furthermore, it has been /M1?OpenElement).
the subject of intensive scientific research indicating that
it strengthens and stabilizes the immune system and is
greatly beneficial in the treatment of allergies (http://the Black seed is antileukemic and it treats asthma,
bestmedical.blogspot.com/2007/03/black-cumin-nigella- whooping cough and intestinal worms
sativa.html). It has also been found to be beneficial in the
treatment of impotence when the causes are primarily The essential oil of N. sativa seeds is antimicrobial and
physiological (http://naturalalternative pharma.com/re successful in the ratification of intestinal worms. In vitro
search.php?ac=post&id=5&uid=1&p=0&cat=6&m=0&y=0). studies in Jordan and the United States have shown its
volatile oil to be anti-leukemic. Other studies suggest this
World Health Organization recommends black seed same active ingredient may serve as an immune-system
as an herbal remedy booster and is proven effective in treating asthma and
whooping cough (http://www.blackseedproducts.com/faqs
Nigella sativa is the most extensively studied plant on the /9-what-are-the-benefits-of-black-seed.html).
 Adv Med Plant Res 34

Studies in Morocco and Jordan for the use of Nigella Clinical studies at King Faisal University in using
sativa in the treatment of diabetes Nigella sativa in the treatment of diabetes2

Nigella sativa has traditionally been used in Morocco and In 2010 at the Department of Physiology, College of
Jordan to treat diabetes as well as hypertension. Several Medicine, King Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
research studies have confirmed that black seed oil helps showed an improved glycemic control in diabetic patients
in stabilizing blood sugar levels in diabetics while also with type 2 Diabetes. This study tested 1, 2, and 3 g of
stimulating pancreatic function. Both animal and human Nigella seeds combined with antidiabetic medicine. There
trials have discovered its potential in treating type 2 were 94 patients studied for a period of 3 months and the
diabetes. Researchers conclude there is no doubt that end results showed that patients who took 2 g of N.
black cumin seed oil possesses anti-diabetic activity sativa seeds in capsule form had the highest success
(Seward, 2015). rate. The results of this study indicate that a dose of 2
g/day of N. sativa might be a beneficial adjuvant to oral
hypoglycemic agents in type 2 diabetic patients.
Treatment of diabetes type 1 and type 2 using black
seed
Nigella sativa is an effective therapeutic agent in the
Black seed oil can help prevent both type-1 and type-2 management of diabetes mellitus
diabetes by causing partial regeneration of pancreatic
beta-cells, increasing the serum insulin, and decreasing In April of 2011 at Department of Pharmacology and
elevated glucose. Also, it has been shown to improve Montreal Diabetes Research Center, Université de
glucose tolerance as efficiently as metformin, a typical Montréal, Montréal, QC, Canada showed that N. sativa
drug for type-2 diabetics, yet shows no adverse effects. anti-diabetic effect appeared to be rooted in the ability of
Dosage for Type 2 diabetes is to take two grams of black the seed to improve insulin sensitivity. Researchers also
seed a day. This resulted in reduced fasting glucose, found that just 2 g daily of black seed could result in
decreased insulin resistance, increased beta-cell reduced fasting blood sugar levels, along with decreased
function, and reduced glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) insulin resistance, and increased beta-cell function in the
in human subjects (Axe, 2015). pancreas. The water and alcohol extracts of N. sativa at
low doses also have a blood-sugar lowering effect
Studies at Kuwait University and Japan for the use of (Bamosa et al., 2010).
Nigella sativa in the treatment of diabetes

In 1991 at the Kuwait University, the researchers carried Recent studies on diabetes using black seed in Iran
out work on some diabetes 2 patients who were not
insulin dependent. In 2002 at the Gifu University, Japan, Studies disclose that oxidative stress may decrease the
researchers also concluded that black seed may be of efficiency of pancreatic β cells, which control the
significant value to sufferers of diabetes 2. production and release of insulin. As such, oxidative
Thymoquinone from Nigella sativa prevents kidney stress is thought to play a role in the development of
damage associated with diabetes (that is, it has diabetes. Black cumin decreases oxidative stress and
protective effects on experimental diabetic nephropathy) may preserve the integrity of pancreatic β cells (Shafiq et
(Black Seeds (Nigella sativa) - The Miraculous Healing al., 2014).
Power for all Diseases, Publisher: Um Hurairah, When diabetic people consumed two grams of black
01/01/2012). cumin per day for three months, it led to reductions in
fasting blood sugar and HbA1c and increased the
functionality of pancreatic β cells, which suggests black
Studies at Turkey University for the use of Nigella cumin may be a “beneficial adjuvant therapy in type 2
sativa in the treatment of diabetes diabetes” (Shafiq et al., 2014).

In 2003 there were three different faculties in Turkey

where black seed was tested on diabetic rabbits and the Effectiveness of Nigella sativa oil in the management
results showed that the sugar level was lowered and of rheumatoid arthritis
brought back to normal. Again in 2004 at the Faculty of
Medicine, Zonguldak Karaelmas University, Zonguldak, The study was conducted by Tamer A. Gheita and Sanaa
Turkey the scientists studied the effects of Nigella sativa A. Kenawy to determine the effectiveness of N. sativa oil
on diabetic rats. The conclusion was the same as all in RA patients. The results were published online on
other tests above (http://nigellasativa.weebly.com/black- December 12, 2011. The constituents of N. sativa
cumin-protocol-for-diabetes.html). modulate the immune system. The paper analyzed and
 Hussain and Hussain 35

discussed data from 40 female RA patients diagnosed Treatment of high blood pressure using black seeds
according to the 2010 ACR/EULAR.
The patients took two placebo (starch filled) capsules In a small study published in 2008, researchers found
daily for 1 month. This was followed by a month of N. that N. sativa may help keep normal blood pressure in
sativa oil capsules 500 mg twice/day. The disease activity check. After eight weeks of twice-daily treatment with N.
score (DAS-28) significantly decreased after receiving the sativa extract, patients with mild hypertension had a
N. sativa capsules (4.55 ± 0.82) compared with before greater reduction in blood pressure (compared to those
and after placebo (4.98 ± 0.79 and 4.99 ± 0.72, assigned to a placebo supplement). The daily use of 100
respectively) (p = 0.017). Recently another research has and 200 mg of black seed extract, twice daily, for 2
been carried out in Pakistan to determine the anti- months, was found to have a blood pressure-lowering
inflammatory effects of thymoquinone on body weight, effect in patients with mild hypertension (Wong, 2015).
clinical score of inflammation, total leukocyte count and
differential leukocyte count in arthritic rats and compare it
with that of methotrexate (Faisal et al., 2015). Black cumin strengthens the immune system,
purifies the blood and increases longevity

Indonesia University researchers study the use of According to researchers black cumin may be regarded
Nigella sativa seed extract on the blood pressure of as the most effective “all-in-one” health food in existence.
elderly with hypertension It regulates the blood and keeps the blood levels at a
normal range of 80 to 130 mmHg. Black seed oil is the
This study was sponsored by Indonesia University. ultimate life elixir. It should be taken daily as a
Researchers conducted a randomized, double blind, preventative measure for all illnesses, and life-long
placebo-controlled trial to prove the effect of N. sativa vitality. Dr. Gary Null of Progressive Radio Network said,
seed extract in elderly patients with hypertension. It was “Black cumin oil is probably the single most important oil
found that a dose of 300 mg N. sativa seed extract twice you can put in your system” (Clark, 2014).
daily will have anti-hypertensive effect in the blood
pressure of elderly patients suffering from hypertension
(Effect of Nigella sativa Seed Extract on the Blood Thymoquinone (TQ) from black seeds are anti-
Pressure of Elderly With Hypertension, Verified July 2011 oxidant, anti-tumour and anti-mutagenic
by Indonesia University. ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier:
NCT01393054). Thymoquinone (TQ), the major bioactive compound of
Nigella sativa is considered as potent antioxidant (Badary
et al., 2003), anti-carcinogenic and anti-mutagenic agent
Blood pressure lowering effect of black seed oil in (Bourgou et al., 2008; Khader et al., 2010). Moreover, TQ
healthy volunteers is a relatively safe compound, particularly when given
orally to experimental animals (Al-Ali et al., 2008). Much
A study was conducted by Fallah Huseini et al. (2013) to of the biological activities of the seeds have been shown
explore the effects of N. sativa oil on blood pressure (BP) to be due to thymoquinone, which is also present in the
in healthy volunteers. In a double-blind, randomized fixed oil (Ali and Blunden, 2003).
study, 70 healthy volunteers aged 34 to 63 years with
systolic BP from 110 to 140 mmHg and diastolic BP
ranging from 60 to 90 mmHg were randomly allocated to Alpha (α)-hederin from black seed is a anti-tumour
receive 2.5 ml N. sativa oil or placebo two times a day for agent
8 weeks. The systolic and diastolic BPs, body mass index
and blood levels of aspartate transaminase, alanine Alpha (α)-hederin, a pentacyclictriterpenesaponin isolated
transaminase, alkaline phosphatase, creatinine and blood from the seeds of N. sativa, was also reported to have
urea nitrogen were determined at baseline and potent in vivo antitumor activity (Swamy and Huat, 2003).
endpoint. Researchers believe thymoquinone holds promise as a
Results showed that in N. sativa oil treated group the preventative strategy both for patients who have already
systolic and diastolic BPs decreased significantly gone through surgery and chemotherapy, as well as a
compared with baseline and placebo group at the promising preventative measure – especially for those
endpoint. Other parameters did not significantly change genetically prone.
in both groups at the endpoint. No adverse effects were Black cumin develops the immune system through
reported. In conclusion, oral daily administration of 5 ml boosting the body‟s immune cell production, cancer and
black seed oil to healthy volunteers for 8 weeks lowers HIV prevention and bone marrow and natural interferon
systolic and diastolic BPs without any adverse effects production: Dr. Gary Null of Progressive Radio Network
(Fallah Huseini et al., 2013). states: Every time you take black cumin you are
 Adv Med Plant Res 36

stimulating your immune system to fight on your behalf Antibacterial and antifungal activity of black seed
and increase natural killer cells. It helps treat even the extracts
most difficult invaders like cancer and HIV, successfully.
The seeds improve the immune system by stimulating the A 2005 study conducted in Mashaad University of
production of bone marrow and cells of the immune Medical Sciences showed that black seed extracts
system. It increases the production of interferon, protects produced antimicrobial activity against a broad range of
normal cells from the damaging effects of harmful microbes and especially on multiple antibiotic resistant
invaders and helps destroy tumor cells (http://www.hlf bacteria. In 2005, another study on antibacterial and
team.com/black-cumin-seed-oil-to-fight-cancer-and- antifungal effects of black seed was conducted by Nasser
improve-your-immune-system/). Vahdati-Mashhadian and Hassan Rakhshandeh against
antibacterial and antifungal effects of Nigella sativa
extracts against S. aureus, P. aeroginosa and C. albicans
Black cumin develops and boosts the immune system (http://www.blackseedproducts.com/faqs/11-has-there-
been-any-scientific-research-done-on-black-seed.html).
Black cumin‟s immune-building properties and active
compounds have been proven to help fight a large
number of diseases and auto-immune disorders through Cairo University researchers find strong antibacterial
the boosting of the body‟s immune cell production, bone activity in black seed extract
marrow, and natural interferon. Even for people in the
best state of health, consuming black cumin regularly has A study at Cairo University in Egypt showed a boost in
greatly increased their vitality and well-being! (Clark, 2014). antibacterial activity when the extract was used in
combination with antibiotics such as streptomycin and
gentamicin. The same study showed additional
Heart strengthened by black cumin antibacterial effect in combination with erythromycin,
tobramycin, doxycycline, and ampicillin, to kill E. coli and
Researchers reported that rich unsaturated omega 6 and the pathogenic yeast, Candida albicans. In addition, the
9 acids and phytosterols help fortify and increase the study showed that the extract destroyed non-fatal
elasticity of blood vessel walls, decrease capillary fragility subcutaneous staphylococcal infection in mice (Paradise,
and permeability, prevents thrombus formation, and 2005).
decrease arterial pressure. It also prevents development
of inflammatory elements in the overall cardiovascular
system. Additionally, black cumin has been used to treat Antibacterial and antifungal effects of Nigella sativa
tachycardia, bradycardia, hypotension and hypertension extracts against S. aureus, P. aeroginosa and C.
(Clark, 2014). albicans
It has been reported that black cumin is rich in
phytochemicals, and it contains antioxidants and other The study confirmed the strong anti-bacterial and anti-
nutritionally essential components that, eaten regularly, mycotic effects and that it was found effective in lowering
black cumin might prevent numerous maladies. Some the blood sugar level which is essential for the treatment
have even called it a “seed of blessing” because it of diabetes. Scientists in Pakistan discovered that several
provides protection against two of the leading causes of strains of the MRSA superbug exhibited sensitivity to
death in the U.S., cancer and heart disease (Shafiq et al., black seed oil which makes it a promising candidate to
2014). prevent future outbreaks of the disease (Seward, 2015).
A research conducted in Germany found that black
cumin seed was more effective against certain bacteria
Pakistani and Bangladeshi scientists confirm the such as E. coli and V. cholera than many popular
antibacterial activity of black cumin antibiotics.

In 1989, an article about phenomenal properties of black

cumin was published in the Pakistani Medical Journal. In Black cumin extract possesses strong antifungal
1992, research of the antibacterial properties of black activity
cumin – in comparison with strong antibiotics was carried
out by the researchers of the medical department of the A recent study showed that N. sativa seed oil could offer
University of Dhaka, Bangladesh. The facts were very a solution to the growing antifungal resistant problem
fascinating – black cumin oil demonstrated itself as a people have with yeasts and molds. Published in the
more efficient remedy against certain types of bacteria Egyptian Journal of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology,
including those which most strongly resist antibiotic drugs scientists tested TY, TQ and THQ against 30 human
(Clark, 2014). pathogens and were surprised to discover that each
 Hussain and Hussain 37

compound showed 100% inhibition for the thirty to extreme heat. A 2003 study confirmed the analgesic
pathogens evaluated; it was also found that effects of the extract (Paradise, 2005).
thymoquinone was the best antifungal compound against
all of the tested dermatophytes and yeasts, followed by
thymohydroquinone and thymol; Thymol was the best Black seed extract contains antihistaminic activity
antifungal against molds followed by thymoquinone and
thymohydroquinone (https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/in Researchers have investigated and verified the black
teresting-article-azhar-jamil?forceNoSplash=true). seed extract's antihistamine activity. One 1993 study
found that nigellone, an ingredient in black cumin seed
extract, acted as an inhibitory agent on histamine by
Black cumin is found effective against multidrug inhibiting protein kinase C, known to initiate histamine
resistant strains of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus release. In 2003, another study concluded that black seed
oil is an effective treatment for allergies (Paradise, 2005).
A study was conducted to see how potent the little seeds
were compared to antibiotics, and it was discovered that
it was highly effective against any multidrug resistant Black seed oil effective for the treatment of
strains of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. Dr. Josh Axe rheumatoid arthritis
reported a study conducted by India‟s Jawaharlal Nehru
Medical College researchers who set out to determine In 1960, a group of scientists from King‟s College,
just how potent black seed oil is against some of these Department of Pharmacy, London, decided to test black
superbugs and compared it against several antibiotics seed oil and its derivative thymoquinone as an anti-
such as Amoxicillin, Gatifloxacin and Tetracycline inflammatory agent. It was discovered that the agents
(Salman et al., 2008). possessed anti-oxidant activity and inhibited eicosanoid
According to the study, “out of 144 strains tested, most generation in cells. On the basis of the study researchers
of which were resistant to a number of antibiotics, 97 supported the traditional use of black seed as a treatment
were inhibited by the oil of black cumin!” The study for rheumatism and related inflammatory diseases.
uncovered that it was especially effective against multi- Several studies since that time have confirmed its anti-
drug resistant strains of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. It inflammatory properties making black seed oil a
was concluded that the key to understanding why black potentially safe and healthy alternative to conventional
seed oils benefits the body in this way is because it is rich drugs for rheumatism and rheumatoid arthritis (http://www
in 3 key natural chemicals: thymoquinone, .awarenessmag.com/sepoct0/so0_black_seed.htm).
thymohydroquinone and thymol (Salman et al., 2008).
Black seeds inhibit certain enzymes
Researchers at King’s College London confirm the
A 1994 study conducted in London by King's College
anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant
revealed that black seed has properties that inhibit
activities of black seed extract
certain enzymes, which also inhibit the production of
certain prostaglandins. This is more proof that the rich
Researchers have tested the anti-inflammatory and
and complex combination of elements found in black
analgesic activities of black cumin seed extract. In 1995,
seed work together for a synergistic effect
a group of scientists from the Department of Pharmacy at
(http://www.khilafatworld.com/2012/02/health-benefits-of-
King's College in London found that the extract contains
black-seed-nigella.html).
anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antioxidant effects.
Ultimately, the researchers concluded that black cumin
seed extract is a justified treatment for rheumatism and Florida researchers confirm that black cumin is a
related inflammatory diseases (Paradise, 2005). viable option for immunity and auto-immune diseases

Black seeds have shown to improve the immune system

King Faisal University researchers confirm the anti- by 72 percent in as few as four weeks. Two studies were
inflammatory and analgesic activities of black seed done in 1987 at the I.I.M.E.R. in Panama City, Florida to
extract verify the immune building effects of black cumin. The
volunteer groups were given one gram of black cumin
In 2001, a study performed at the Department of twice a day or a placebo. After four weeks, the end
Pharmacology at King Faisal University in Saudi Arabia, results showed a 72 percent increase in T-cell ratios as
reported anti-inflammatory and analgesic activity from the well as an increase in natural killer cell functional activity
use of black cumin seed extract in animals. Paw edema (https://www.facebook.com/healthmaintenance.dr).
(swelling) was reduced, as was reaction time in response Black cumin has now become a viable option to treat
 Adv Med Plant Res 38

and/or heal people afflicted with auto-immune diseases seed undertaken at the International Immuno-Biology
which are a leading cause of death and disability for Research Laboratory, South Carolina concluded that,
many. In 2010, there were approximately 23.5 million “the activity of black seed blocked the tumor growth and
Americans afflicted with auto-immune diseases which dissemination in metastasis and have remarkable
include more than 80 serious diseases. Some of the promises for clinical use.” The alcohol extract of N. sativa
types are rare and some quite common like rheumatoid seeds also found to exhibit anti-psoriatic activity,
arthritis, lupus, Celiac disease and Crohn's disease. consistent with its medicinal use in traditional medicine
Auto-immune diseases also include cancer, diabetes, (http://www.awarenessmag.com/sepoct0/so0_black_seed
baldness, asthma and migraines (Davis, Samantha, .htm).
Black cumin is a viable option for immunity and auto-
immune diseases (http://www.naturalnews.com/038644_
black_cumin_oil_immune_system_NK_cells.html#ixzz43 Treatment of epilepsy using black cumin
hgB5k4h).
Published in Medical Science Monitor, one study found
black seed to be effective at reducing the frequency of
Saudi Arabian researchers support the use of black seizures in children who resisted conventional treatment.
seed in the treatment of AIDS Black seed indeed has anti-convulsive properties. In
2007 a study with epileptic children, whose condition was
In the field of AIDS research, human clinical trials refractory to conventional drug treatment, was conducted.
conducted at the Department of Biological and Medical It was found that a water extract of black seeds
Research Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (1997) showed significantly reduced seizure activity. Hence, black seeds
that black seed enhanced the ratio between helper T-cell were traditionally known to have anticonvulsive properties
by 55% with a 30% enhancement of NK cell activity. (Dingir, 2014).
These findings suggest that black seed could play an
important role in the treatment of cancer, AIDS, and other
immune deficiency states (http://naturalalternativepharma Researchers at the University of Health Sciences,
.com/research.php?ac=post&id=12&uid=1&p=0&cat=13& Pakistan says that MRSA responds favorably to black
m=0&y=0). cumin

The deadly and antibiotic-resistant bacterial infection

HIV patient finds cure using black seed extract known commonly as MRSA, responded favorably to
treatment with black seed in a study from the University
A study by Onifade et al. (2013), reports of a HIV patient
of Health Sciences in Lahore, Pakistan. It possesses anti-
who went into complete remission after black seed
bacterial activity against clinical isolates of MRSA
treatment.
(methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus (Renter, 2013).
Another study reports that a patient was treated with N.
sativa for a period of six months, after which there was no
detectable HIV virus or antibodies against HIV in his Protection against heart attack damage
bloodstream. In one study the abstract explains that the
patient was suffering with symptoms common in HIV, An extract from black seed has been shown to
including chronic fever, weight loss, lesions, and possess heart-protective qualities, dampening damages
diarrhea. An herbalist advised him to use black seed. He associated with heart attacks and boosting overall heart
noticed that the treatment had impressive and near- health. It has been recently reported that consumption of
immediate results. The patient was commenced on black cumin is associated with lowering of elevated heart
Nigella sativa concoction 10 ml twice daily for 6 months. rate and blood pressure. Thymoquinone in black cumin
He was contacted daily to monitor side-effects and drug also may benefit endothelial dysfunction, which is
efficacy. Fever, diarrhoea and multiple pruritic lesions involved in many cardiovascular disorders. In patients
disappeared on 5th, 7th and 20th day respectively on with such age-related cardiovascular disorders
therapy.” The author of the study concludes that there are thymoquinone helps to recover endolethial function, in
possible therapeutic agents in Nigella sativa that may part by inhibiting oxidative stress and regulating the
effectively control HIV infection (Renter, 2014). angiotensin system, which is involved in controlling blood
pressure (Shafiq et al., 2014).
IIBR Laboratory, South Carolina confirms that black
seed blocked the tumor growth and dissemination in Thymoquinone from black seed induces apoptosis in
metastasis leukemia

In 1997 a study on the anti-cancer activity of the black As it has been shown to do with other types of cancer,
 Hussain and Hussain 39

black seed compound thymoquinone has also been Black cumin seed oil is a cancer-fighter
shown to induce apoptosis in leukemia cells. It was also
reported that it kills leukemia cells in vitro (Salim, 2013). Nigella sativa is the most powerful oil in the world. It has
been involved in hundreds of studies regarding health,
and particularly cancer treatment and prevention. One of
Black cumin protects brain damage due to lead the active ingredients, Thymoquinone, has been found to
poisoning be particularly effective in reducing the size of existing
tumors. In studies on rats and humans, researchers
A study published in Experimental and Toxicologic found that black cumin seed oil has been found to
Pathology indicates black seed is able to dampen and possess the following effects (http://www.natural
reverse damage to the brain sparked by lead toxicity. livingideas.com/black-cumin-seed-oil/):

i) Inhibited tumor growth by up to 50%

Black seed cures hypertension, schistosomiasis,
ii) Increased the growth of healthy bone marrow cells by
protects kidney tissue and prevents renal
250%
dysfunction
iii) Aides in the production of natural interferon
Black seed is effective against hypertension (Khattab and iv) Demonstrated strong anti-bacterial and anti-
Nagi, 2007; Dehkordi and Kamkhah, 2008). It has a inflammatory properties
potent antihistaminic effect on airways of asthmatic v) Helps to protect the body against damage from
patients (Boskabady et al., 2010). Its components are chemotherapy and radiation
promising agents to complement schistosomiasis specific vi) Deactivated and/or killed certain types of cancer cells.
treatment (El Shenawy et al., 2008). The oil protects
kidney tissue against oxygen free radicals, preventing
Anticancer activities of black cumin
renal dysfunction and morphological abnormalities
(Bayrak et al., 2008; Uz et al., 2008; Ragheb et al.,
Researchers at the Department of Biochemistry, School
2009).
of Biological Science and Technology, Central South
University, Hunan 410013, China and Department of
Scientific studies confirm that black seed oil can cure Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, Philadelphia College
numerous cancers of Osteopathic Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania,
USA confirmed that black cumin possesses anticancer
Although the anti-cancer activity of N. sativa was activity. Articles from African Journal of Traditional,
recognized thousands of years ago, it was not until the Complementary, and Alternative Medicines are provided
past two or three decades that modern scientific research here courtesy of African Networks on Ethnomedicines
has been undertaken to study this important traditional (Khan et al., 2011).
medicine. Black seed provides powerful benefits for
various inflammatory cancers such as liver, melanoma,
skin, pancreatic, cervical, breast, bone, stomach, Black seed suppresses growth of multiple types of
lymphoma, prostate, colon, and brain. In fact, the cancer
phytochemicals of TQ and THQ resulted in a 52%
decrease in tumor cells (Thomas, 2014). A study published in "Oncology Letters" in 2010 found
that two daily doses of crude extra-virgin black seed oil
inhibited the growth of cancer tumors in the colon, lungs,
Black seed oil proved to be effective for cancer esophagus and fore-stomach in rats. This was the case
treatment both in rats given doses at 50 mg per kg of body weight
and 200 mg per kg of body weight. The study concluded
Black seed oil has been extensively researched as a that black seed oil has carcinopreventive and
possible cancer treatment. Studies have revealed that chemopreventive potential, which means that it could
one of its main active compounds, thymoquinone, has possibly be used to prevent cancer and lessen the need
great potential in cancer treatments. Numerous studies for chemotherapy in the early stage of cancer (McCarthy,
show that thymoquinone can help to induce cell death or 2015).
apoptosis in a number of cancerous cells including AbuKhader et al. (2013) recently reports that
leukemia, breast cancer, pancreatic cancer and cervical thymoquinone is known to have anti-cancer effects.
cancer. There is a growing body of research that shows Research published in Drug Discovery Today concluded
thymoquinone reduces the size and the growth of tumors that thymoquinone has a long history of battling cancer in
in rats (http://healthyfocus.org/top-10-black-seed-oil- vitro and in vivo (in “test tube” experiments and animal
health-benefits/). studies), and modulates 9 of the 10 hallmarks of cancer
 Adv Med Plant Res 40

(Schneider-Stock et al., 2014). Thymoquinone extract bone marrow and immune cells, and raises the interferon
from black cumin also appears to be effective against production, protects normal cells against cell destroying
cancers in the blood, lung, kidney, liver, prostate, breast, effects of viruses, destroys tumour cells and raises the
cervix, colon and skin (Khan et al., 2011). number of anti-bodies producing B cells. All these
functions make the black seed oil an ideal natural product
for the prevention and treatment of cancer (Wagner, nd).
Black cumin suppresses tumor growth and prevents
need of chemotherapy
Cancer and Immuno-biology Laboratory, South
In another study, published in the "Brazil Journal of Carolina confirms that black seed stimulates the
Medical and Biological Research" in 2007, scientists activity of neutrophil granulocytes
induced cancerous tumors in rats to find the extent to
which black seed oil could suppress their growth. They Cancer and Immuno-Biology Laboratory in South
injected the oil directly into tumors on rats every day for Carolina found that black cumin helps stimulate the
30 days, and did not treat the control group. By the end of activity of neutrophil granulocytes – the most abundant
the study, the control group had tumors about 2.5 type of white blood cell in the body. These neutrophils
centimeters in size, whereas the tumors in treated rats target cancer cells before they multiply, and help
were just two-tenths of a centimeter. This reveals more eliminate them before they can develop into harmful
compelling evidence supporting the potential role of black tumors (Clark, 2014).
seed oil in preventing the need for chemotherapy in
cancer patients (McCarthy, 2015).
Recent scientific research indicates that black seed
reduces the growth and size of tumors in rats
Chinese and Saudi Arabian researchers confirm the
anti-cancer activity of black seed oil According to Katherine Anderson, ND, FABNO, National
Director of Naturopathic Medicine for CTCA (February
In two separate 2011 studies, Chinese and Saudi Arabian 26, 2014), there is a growing evidence that black cumin
researchers reviewed the scientific literature for the use and its volatile oil may have anticancer properties.
of black seed oil in treating cancer. They reconfirmed the Studies taken by Anderson points to indicate the seeds‟
anti-cancer property of this safe and natural seed oil. The active ingredients, particularly thymoquinone may reduce
oil and the extracted component called thymoquinone are the growth and size of tumors in rats.
both effective against many diseases such as cancer,
cardiovascular complications, diabetes, asthma, kidney
disease, etc. They concluded that it is a safe and Research using Swiss albino mice indicates that
effective agent against cancer in the blood system, lungs, black seeds inhibit the growth of common type of
kidneys, liver, prostate, breast, cervix, and skin (Thomas, cancer cells (EAC & DLA)
2014).
A study of black seed's potential anti-tumor principles by
the Amala Research Center in Amala Nagar, Kerala
A Yemeni woman reports she was cured of stage 3 (India) in 1991 lent further impetus to Dr. Chakravarty's
cancer suggestion for the possible use of black seed in the
treatment of cancer. Using an active principle of fatty
A woman in Yemen, suffering of stage 3 cancer – longed acids derived from black seed, studies with Swiss albino
for natural treatment. She was advised to take black mice showed that this active principle could completely
cumin seeds with honey three times a day. After three inhibit the development of a common type of cancer cells,
months, her cancer completely disappeared. The woman called Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC). A second
continued consumption of these nutrient foods even after common type of cancer cells, Dalton‟s lymphoma ascites
illness had diminished (http://panaseeda.com/black- (DLA) was also used. Mice which had received the EAC
cumin-oil/). cells and black seed remained normal without any tumour
formation (http://www.missionislam.com/health/blackseed
.html).
Researchers in the Cancer Immuno-biology
Laboratory, South Carolina confirm that black seed
stimulates bone marrow and immune cells Pancreatic cancer completely destroyed by black
cumin
Research in the Cancer Immuno-biology Laboratory,
South Carolina concluded that black seed stimulates Patients with pancreatic cancer has the lowest chance of
 Hussain and Hussain 41

survival due to the reason it is not detected in most cases death in glioblastoma cells. Glioblastoma is one of the
until it has reached stages III and IV. The overall survival most aggressive brain tumors of all. Thymoquinone from
rate is 4.6% and in most cases can only be cured when N. sativa kills highly aggressive gliobastoma brain cancer
you catch it in the earlier stages. There are many studies cells. The oil and its active component, thymoquinone,
showing that N. sativa has been successful in killing protect brain tissue from radiation damage.
pancreatic cancer cells in 82% of the cases. The study Thymoquinone from N. sativa extract prevents lead-
also shows that N. sativa is successful after surgery and induced brain damage in Sprague dawley rats.
chemo has been used (http://cancer.emedtv.com/
pancreatic-cancer/pancreatic-cancer-survival-rates-p2.html).
A 2008 study on Pancreatic Cancer was conducted by Treatment of blood cancer with black cumin
Dr. Sanjeev Banerjee and Dr. Fazlul Sarkar at Karmanos.
Researchers‟ report showed enhanced chemosensitivity El-Mahdy et al. (2005) reported that TQ exhibits anti-
of pancreatic cancer cells by components from black seeds. proliferative effect in human myeloblastic leukemia HL-60
cells. Derivatives of TQ bearing terpene-terminated 6-
alkyl residues were tested in HL-60 cells and 518A2
Researchers from Thomas Jefferson University, USA melanoma by Effenberger et al. (2010). They found the
confirm black cumin annihilates pancreatic cancer derivatives induce apoptosis associated with DNA
tumors laddering, a decrease in mitochondrial membrane
potential and a slight increase in reactive oxygen species.
Dr. Hwyda Arafat at the Kimmel Cancer Center at Swamy and Huat (2003) observed that α-hederin also
Thomas Jefferson University USA conducted several induced death of murine leukemia P388 cells by a dose-
studies using N. sativa to treat pancreatic cancer. The and time-dependent increase in apoptosis.
results were astounding with an 80% cancer tumor cell
death. It also showed to stop the gene transcription
process so cancer cells cannot replicate. Dr. Arafat went Treatment of breast cancer with black cumin
on to say, “N. sativa helps treat a broad array of
diseases, including some immune and inflammatory Aqueous and alcohol extracts of N. sativa were found to
disorders” (http://cancer.emedtv.com/pancreatic-cancer/ be effective in vitro in inactivating MCF-7 breast cancer
pancreatic-cancer-survival-rates-p2.html). cells (Farah and Begum, 2003). N. sativa, in combination
with melatonin and retinoic acid reduced the carcinogenic
effects of DMBA (7, 12-di-methylbenz(a)anthracene) in
Black cumin induced apoptosis and inhibited
mammary carcinoma of rats (El-Aziz et al., 2005).
proliferation in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Terpene-terminated 6-alkyl residues of TQ were tested in
cells
MCF-7/Topo breast carcinoma by Effenberger et al.
(2010). They found the derivatives inducing cell death by
Chehl et al. (2009) showed that TQ, the major constituent
apoptosis.
of N. sativa oil extract, induced apoptosis and inhibited
proliferation in PDA (pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma)
cells. They also suggested TQ as a novel inhibitor of pro- Black cumin increases the growth rate of bone
inflammatory pathways, which provides a promising marrow cells and inhibits tumor growth
strategy that combines anti-inflammatory and proapop-
totic modes of action. TQ also can abrogate gemcitabine- One of the largest experimental studies so far proved that
or oxaliplatin-induced activation of NF-kappa B, resulting N. sativa oil had enormous success in tumor therapy
in the chemosensitization of pancreatic tumors to without the negative side effects of common
conventional therapeutics (Banerjee et al., 2009). chemotherapy. They found that it increased the growth
rate of bone marrow cells by a staggering 250% and it
inhibited tumor growth by 50%. It stimulated immune cells
The potential benefits of thymoquinone (TQ) in
and raised the interferon production which protects cells
treating liver cancer
from the cell destroying effect of viruses (http://www.origo
A 2010 study on Liver Cancer was conducted by Dr. H. .com.tr/en/black-cumin-seed-oil.html).
A. Mohamed, Dr. I. H. El-Sayed and Dr. M. Moawad. The
findings were reported in Nature and Science, 2010.
Treatment of colon cancer with black cumin

Black seed induces cell death of brain cancer cells Gali-Muhtasib et al. (2004) suggested that TQ is anti-
neoplastic and pro-apoptotic against colon cancer cell
A study published in the online journal PLoS One line HCT116. Salim and Fukushima (2003) demonstrated
indicates thymoquinone from black seed can induce cell that the volatile oil of N. sativa has the ability to inhibit
 Adv Med Plant Res 42

colon carcinogenesis of rats in the post-initiation stage, of α-hederin from N. sativa against LL/2 (Lewis Lung
with no evident adverse side effects. Norwood et al. carcinoma) in BDF1 mice. Also, Mabrouk et al. (2002)
(2007) suggested TQ as chemotherapeutic agent on SW- showed that supplementation of diet with honey and N.
626 colon cancer cells, in potency, which is similar to 5- sativa has a protective effect against MNU
flurouracil in action. However, on HT-29 (colon (methylnitrosourea) induced oxidative stress,
adenocarcinoma) cell, no effect of TQ was found inflammatory response and carcinogenesis in lung, skin
(Rooney and Ryan, 2005). and colon.
In one animal study, the seed was able to fight colon
cancer in rats successfully with no observable side
effects. Cell studies have also found that black seed Treatment of skin cancer with black cumin
extract compares favorably to the chemoagent 5-
fluoruracil in the suppression of colon cancer growth, but Topical application of N. sativa extract inhibited two-stage
with a far higher safety profile. Animal research has found initiation/promotion [dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA)
that black seed oil has significant inhibitory effects /croton oil] skin carcinogenesis in mice. Again,
against colon cancer in rats, without observable side intraperitoneal administration of N. sativa (100 mg/kg
effects (Ji, 2013). body wt) 30 days after subcutaneous administration of
MCA (20-methylcholanthrene) restricted soft tissue
sarcomas to 33.3% compared with 100% in MCA-treated
Lebanese researchers confirm black seed oil inhibits controls (Salomi et al., 1991).
and kills colon cancer cells

In an earlier study in 2004, Lebanese researchers Treatment of fibrosarcoma with black cumin
identified the powerful role of black seed oil as a cancer
preventative and cancer treatment agent. The TQ from N. sativa was administrated (0.01% in drinking
researchers noted that black seed and black seed oil water) one week before and after MCA treatment
have been used in Asia, the Middle East and Africa to significantly inhibited the tumor incidence (fibrosarcoma)
promote health and fight disease. Thymoquinone, the and tumor burden by 43 and 34%, respectively,
bioactive constituent present in black seed, is a promising compared with the results in the group receiving MCA
dietary agent for preventing cancer. The researchers alone. Moreover, TQ delayed the onset of MCA-induced
investigated the effects of thymoquinone against human fibrosarcoma tumors. Also in vitro studies showed that
colon cancer cells and found that thymoquinone TQ inhibited the survival of fibrosarcoma cells with IC50
effectively inhibits the growth of colon cancer cells of 15 mM (Badary and Gamal, 2001). Oil of N. sativa also
(http://healthimpactnews.com/2014/black-seed-oil-cures- decreased the fibrinolytic potential of the human
many-cancers-according-to-numerous-studies/). fibrosarcoma cell line (HT1080) in vitro (Awad, 2005).

Treatment of hepatic cancer with black cumin

Treatment of renal cancer with black cumin
The cytotoxic activity of N. sativa seed was tested on the
Khan and Sultana (2005) reported the chemo-preventive
human hepatoma HepG2 cell line by Thabrew et al.
effect of N. sativa against ferric nitrilotriacetate (Fe-NTA)-
(2005), and 88% inhibitory effect on HepG2 was found
induced renal oxidative stress, hyper-proliferative
after 24 h incubation with different concentrations (0 to 50
response and renal carcinogenesis. Treatment of rats
mg/ml) of the N. sativa extract.
orally with N. sativa (50 to 100 mg/kg body wt) resulted in
significant decrease in H2O2 generation, DNA synthesis
Thymoquinones (TQ) is an effective prophylactic and incidence of tumors.
agent against chemical carcinogenesis

Nagi and Almakki (2009) reported that oral administration Treatment of prostate cancer with black cumin
of TQ is effective in increasing the activities of quinine
reductase and glutathione transferase and makes TQ a The researchers suggested TQ as effective in treating
promising prophylactic agent against chemical hormone-sensitive as well as hormone-refractory prostate
carcinogenesis and toxicity in hepatic cancer. cancer. Yi et al. (2008) found that TQ blocked
angiogenesis in vitro and in vivo, prevented tumor
angiogenesis in a xenograft human prostate cancer
Treatment of lung cancer with black cumin (PC3) model in mouse, and inhibited human prostate
tumor growth at low dosage with almost no chemotoxic
Swamy and Huat (2003) mentioned the antitumor activity side effects.
 Hussain and Hussain 43

Studies on molecular mechanisms of growth bee honey and black seed oil on human liver cancer cells
inhibitory effects of thymoquinone against prostate in laboratory experiments. They examined the antioxidant
cancer cells capacity of honey and black seed extract, and the ability
of these substances to eliminate unhealthy cancer cells.
A 2010 study on Prostate Cancer was conducted by Dr. They found that both honey and black seed extract were
Debasis Mondal, Department of Pharmacology; effective in reducing the viability of liver cancer cells.
Department of Urology, Tulane University School of Honey and black seed extract also improved the
Medicine, New Orleans, LA. There is a U.S. Patent on antioxidant status of cells and induced cancer cell death
the Inhibition of cancer cell growth (US 5,653,981). by apoptosis (Hassan et al., 2012).

Treatment of cervical cancer with black cumin Turkish researchers confirm that black seed oil helps
in radiation treatment
Shafi et al. (2009) reported that methanol, n-Hexane and
chloroform extracts of N. sativa effectively killed HeLa In a 2014 study, Turkish researchers reported how black
(human epithelial cervical cancer) cells by inducing seed oil could potentially be helpful to people receiving
apoptosis. Effenberger et al. (2010) tested terpene- radiation treatment for cancer. They indicated that many
terminated 6-alkyl residues of TQ on multidrug-Resistant cancer patients treated with radiation therapy suffer
KB-V1/Vb1 cervical carcinoma and found the derivatives severe side effects during and after their treatment. This
inducing cell death by apoptosis. TQ has also been study investigated the effects of irradiation and the
reported to be active in controlling Akt pathway and addition of black seed oil on the oxidant/antioxidant
administration of N. sativa oil can lower the toxicity of system in the liver tissue of irradiated rats. They exposed
other anticancer drugs (Alenzi et al., 2010). It was also some of the rats to a single dose of gamma radiation.
reported that N. sativa extract exhibits anti-proliferative, One group of rats received one gram of black seed oil per
apoptotic and anti-invasive properties in a cervical cancer kilogram of body weight one hour before the radiation
cell line. and received a daily dose afterward for 10 days. Another
group received the radiation treatment and was given a
saline solution instead of black seed oil. The control
Treatment of oral cancer with black seed extract group was not irradiated (Cikman et al., 2014).
Research documented by US National Library of
Medicine National Institute of Health indicates
Black seed protects against adverse effects of
thymoquinone from N. sativa extract is able to induce cell
radiotherapy
apoptosis in oral cancer cells. It was also found that
thymoquinone also kills oral cancer cells (http://www.re
The analysis of the data shows that black seed oil
generativenutrition.com/black-seed-oil-p-100.asp?xcur=2&).
reduces oxidative stress markers and has antioxidant
effects, which also augments the antioxidant capacity in
Black seeds and honey together cure cancer the liver tissue of rats. Thus, the use of black seed oil
before radiation treatment, and for 10 days afterward,
Egyptian researchers studied the protective effect of bee protected the rats from some of the harmful effects of
honey and Nigella grains on the oxidative stress and the radiation. There is evidence that black seed oil can work
cancer that was created by exposing rats to a strong as a natural protective guard against the dangers
carcinogen. After the four groups of rats were exposed to caused by radiation treatment in cancer patients
the carcinogen, some groups were fed black seeds or (Seward, 2015).
honey, and one group was fed both black seeds and
honey. The rats were evaluated after 6 months. The rats
that ate black seeds received an 80% protection against Indian scientists confirm black seed oil helps in
oxidative stress and cancer formation, whereas the rats radiation treatment
that ate a daily dose of both honey and black seeds were
protected 100% against oxidative stress, inflammatory In a 2012 study in India, scientists investigated the effect
responses, and cancer formation (Thomas, 2014). of using an extract of black seeds on mice exposed to
gamma radiation. A group of normal mice and a group of
tumor bearing mice were tested. This experiment was
Combined use of black seeds and honey eliminate done to mimic the human clinical setting where normal
liver cancer cells tissues of cancer patients are exposed to the harmful
effects of radiation therapy. The mice were given black
A 2012 study from Egypt evaluated anti-tumor effects of seed extract before being exposed to the gamma
 Adv Med Plant Res 44

radiation. They were given 100 mg of black seed extract Researchers from Ohio State University confirm black
per 1 kg of body weight. seed components kill malignant brain cancer cells
The results showed that the extract of black seed
protected the liver, spleen, brain and intestines from Researchers from Ohio State University published a
gamma radiation damage for both the normal mice and study in 2013 indicating that glioblastoma is the most
the mice with tumors. Researchers concluded that the aggressive and common type of malignant brain tumor in
liquid extract of black seeds has protective effects against humans, with a median survival of 15 months. They
radiation-induced damage and biochemical alterations. found that thymoquinone, the bioactive compounds of
Thus, the liquid extracted from black seeds could be used black seed oil has anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory and
with human cancer patients who receive radiation to anti-cancer actions, and it exhibits potent tumor killing
protect against oxidative stress in normal tissues, and to action. It has selective cytotoxic properties for human
mitigate other unwanted side effects of radiation. This cells, which means that it kills human cancer cells while
could improve the quality of life for cancer patients not being harmful to normal cells. Thus, thymoquinone‟s
(Velho-Pereira et al., 2012). ability to inhibit cancer cells from making clones of
themselves and its ability to inhibit cancer cells from
reusing cellular materials from other cells by means of
Black seeds interfere with uncontrolled cell growth autophagy, provide an exciting and emerging strategy for
and kill liver cancer cells cancer therapy (Racoma et al., 2013).
The researchers further examined how thymoquinone
In 2013, researchers in India investigated the use of selectively inhibits the ability of glioblastoma cancer cells
thymoquinone from black seeds. Two groups of rats with of the brain and spinal cord from making clones of
liver cancer were studied. One group was given water to themselves. Thus, thymoquinone‟s ability to inhibit cancer
drink that contained 0.01% thymoquinone, and the other cells from making clones of themselves and its ability to
group was given plain water. After 16 weeks, the liver inhibit cancer cells from reusing cellular materials from
cancer nodules, liver injury markers and tumor markers other cells by means of autophagy, provide an exciting
were measured in both groups. and emerging strategy for cancer therapy (Racoma et al.,
The rats that did not receive the thymoquinone had 2013).
substantial increases in liver tumor size. On the other
hand, the rats that received 20 mg of thymoquinone per
kilogram for body weight had greatly reduced liver injury
Malaysian scientists confirm black seeds inhibit
markers and decreased tumor markers. The group
breast cancer
treated with thymoquinone from black seed oil did not
develop liver cancer nodules, and the amount of new
A study, conducted in 2013 in Malaysia, addressed the
tumor formation was much less than the untreated group
anti-cancer efficiency of thymoquinone when it was used
of rats.
for long-term treatment of human breast cancer cell lines
From this finding the researchers concluded that
in the laboratory. Thymoquinone showed a sustained
thymoquinone had a beneficial role in the treatment of
ability to inhibit breast cancer cell proliferation with long-
liver cancer, because of its potent ability to prevent cancer
term treatment. The length of inhibition was determined
Cells from proliferating (Raghunandhakumar et al.,
by the size of the thymoquinone dose. Larger doses
2013).
produced greater inhibition (Motaghed et al., 2013).

Saudi Arabian researchers confirm black seed

extract and oil kill lung cancer cells Malaysian scientists confirm black seeds kill
leukemia cells
Saudi Arabian researchers in 2014 investigated the
anticancer activity of black seed oil and black seed In a separate study in 2013 Malaysian researchers noted
extract against human lung cancer cells. Scientists that there is a growing interest in the use of naturally
exposed lung cancer cells to black seed oil or black seed occurring compounds from traditional medicine which
extract for 24 h. They used 0.01 mg/ml to 1 mg/ml of the have anti-cancer potential. Thymoquinone, active
oil or the extract. After the exposure, the cancer cell ingredient isolated from Nigella sativa having anti-cancer
viability was assessed. The results showed that both the effect was assessed in an acute leukemia cell line.
black seed oil and the extract significantly reduced the Researchers found that treatment of leukemia cells with
viability and population of living cancer cells and altered thymoquinone encouraged apoptosis resulting in cell
the cellular morphology. They found that the greater the death. These results indicate that thymoquinone from
concentration used to treat the cancer cells, the greater black seeds could be a promising agent for the treatment
the level of cell death (Al-Sheddi et al., 2014). of leukemia (Salim et al., 2013).
 Hussain and Hussain 45

Researchers from the University of Mississippi be instrumental in advancing this field in support of
Medical Center confirm black seed oil inhibits and initiating clinical trials for testing the effects of this ancient
kills colon cancer cells agent in cancer therapy (Mercy, 2015).

Researchers from the University of Mississippi Medical

Center studied epigallocatechin-3-gallate, the most Researcher from Oman recommends conducting
abundant catechin found in green tea, and thymoquinone clinical trials with human cancer patients
found in black seeds. Results of this study showed that
green tea catechin and black seed thymoquinone A researcher from Oman states that thymoquinone, the
produced significant cancer cell destruction and bioactive constituent of black seed oil, has already been
interfered with cellular metabolic functions. The extensively studied. The use of thymoquinone in test tube
researchers concluded that the natural agents from N. research with human cancer cells and in animal studies
sativa may offer a safe alternative treatment for colon with induced forms of cancer has also been thoroughly
cancer (Norwood et al., 2007). investigated. As a result, a considerable amount of
information has been generated, thus providing a better
understanding of the anti-proliferating activity of this
German researchers successfully treat cancer with compound. Therefore, it is appropriate that thymoquinone
thymoquinone from black seeds and conventional should move from testing on the bench to clinical
cancer drugs experiments (Abukhader, 2013).

In 2011, German researchers described the drug

doxorubicin as being a mainstay of cancer chemotherapy Black seed strengthens human immunity
despite its cardiotoxicity and its limited ability to treat
multi-drug resistant cancers. Recent studies revealed a The role of black seed in increasing human immunity was
protective effect of thymoquinone, a non-toxic constituent not clear before 1986, when Dr. Qâdi and his colleagues
of the essential oil of Nigella sativa, against doxorubicin- started a series of researches in the United States.
induced cardiotoxicity. They found that thymoquinone is a Afterwards, many researches were launched in various
booster for the anticancer effect of the chemotherapy countries. Dr. Qâdi proved that the use of black seed
agent doxorubicin in cancer cell lines (Effenberger- strengthens immunity since the ratio of the T assistant
Neidnicht and Schobert , 2011). lymph cells increased by an average of 72% compared to
the restraining cells. Also, there was a considerable
development in the activity of natural killer cells with an
Singapore researchers treat cancer with thymoquinone average of 74%. The results of many modern researches
from black seeds and conventional cancer drugs supported the findings of Qâdi. It was reported that
amongst the findings are the results published by the
In 2013, researchers from Singapore reported that there International Immunity Magazine in August 1995 about
are a limited number of therapeutic agents for cancer, the effect of black seed on the outer lymph cells and the
and cancer cells are developing resistance to these activity of white blood multi-nucleus cells (http://www.
agents. Thus, there is a need to discover novel agents to islamweb.net/en/article/157049/black-seed-nigella-sativa-
treat breast cancer. The antitumor activities of a-cure-for-every-disease).
thymoquinone, isolated from black seed oil, were used to
treat mice with breast cancer. Thymoquinone treatment
was found to suppress tumor growth, and this effect was Black seed extract treats cancer tumours
further enhanced by combining it with the chemotherapy
drug doxorubicin (Woo et al., 2013). In October 1999, the European Magazine of Cancer
published an article on the effect of thymoquinone on
abdomen cancer in rats. Likewise, in May 1998, a
Researchers from Wayne State University in magazine specialized in anti-cancer researches
Michigan conduct clinical trials with human cancer published an article on the extracts of black seed as a
patients treatment for cancer tumours. On April 2000, the Ethanol
Medical Magazine wrote about the toxicity and immunity
Researchers from Wayne State University in Michigan effects of ethanol extract from black seeds. Also, in
found that their review of published reports about black February 1995, Medical Plants Magazine published an
seeds indicate that further in-depth studies are article on the effects of the black seed stable oil and
warranted. They specifically suggested to study the thymoquinone on white blood cells (http://www.islamweb
bioavailability and Phase-I toxicity profiling of black seeds .net/en/article/157049/black-seed-nigella-sativa-a-cure-
oil in human subjects. The results from such studies will for-every-disease).
 Adv Med Plant Res 46

Indian scientists discover anti-tumour principles of sperm producing tissue. It is also known to be an
black seeds effective antimicrobial agent and broncho-dilator
(http://www.oocities.org/mutmainaa/food/black_seed.html).
In 1991 a study of black seed‟s potential anti-tumour
principles by the Amala Research Centre in Amala
Nagar, Kerala (India) lent further impetus to several Human trials in Germany confirm that black seed oil
scientists‟ suggestions for the possible use of black seed is the cure for allergies
in the treatment of cancer. Using an active principle of
fatty acids derived from black seed, studies with Swiss According to Wagner, studies also testify that an immune
albino mice showed that this active principle could system, which has gone wrong, can be regulated by the
completely inhibit the development of a common type of strong effect of the oil. Schleicher has tested the effect of
cancer cells called Ehrlich ascites carcinoma (EAC). A the oil on 600 patients. Through this study, he confirms
second common type of cancer cells called Dalton's that black seed is the cure for allergies in about 70% of
lymphoma ascites (DLA) cells, were also used. the patients. Amongst them are allergies caused by
Mice which had received the EAC cells and black seed pollen and dust, acne, neuro-dermatological illnesses,
remained normal without any tumor formation, illustrating asthma, et cetera. Due to these benefits to cure allergies,
that the active principle was 100% effective in preventing Dr. Schleicher in Munich has decided to include the oil in
EAC tumor development. Results in mice who received his preventative treatment against colds and influenza.
DLA cells and black seed showed that the active principle He noted that in the Middle East and South Asia, black
had inhibited tumor development by 50% less compared seed oil has been used for thousands of years as a
to mice not given the active principle. The study remedy for all sorts of allergies, inflammation and
concluded, "It is evident that the active principle isolated menstruation problems, boosting moral, depression; but
from Nigella sativa seeds is a potent anti-tumor agent, especially against bronchitis, asthma and neuro-
and the constituent long chain fatty acid may be the main dermatitis as well as poor digestion and even impotency
active component" (https://archive.org/stream/Black (http://www.healthymuslim.com/print.cfm?mdhpn).
SeedsBenefits/Black-Seeds-Benefits_djvu.txt).

Study of the effects of Nigella sativa on humans

Saudi Arabian researchers confirm black seeds are
effective for Helicobacter pylori infection: Scientists at the Cancer and Immuno-Biological
Laboratory have found that black seed stimulates bone
In 2010, Saudi Arabian researchers indicated that a large marrow and immune cells and raises the interferon
number of diseases are ascribed to Helicobacter pylori, production, protects normal cells against cell destroying
particularly chronic active gastritis, peptic ulcer disease effects of viruses, destroys tumor cells and raises the
and gastric cancer. They found that successful treatment number of anti-bodies producing B cells. U.S.
of H. pylori infection with antimicrobial agents can lead to researchers have written the world wide first report on the
regression of H. pylori-associated disorders. So they anti-tumor affects of black seed oil (http://www.manataka
undertook a study to evaluate the efficacy of black seeds .org/page1413.html).
for the eradication of H. pylori infection in 88 human non-
ulcer dyspeptic patients.
Patients were randomly assigned to four groups. The Black seed components are anti-spasmodic,
groups received various combinations of clarithromycin broncho-dilating and antihistaminic
and/or amoxicillin (antibiotics), omeprazole (anti gastric
reflex drug), and black seed oil. Researchers found that Two of the most volatile oils found in black seed are
black seeds possess clinically useful anti-H. pylori activity, nigellone and thymoquinone which were first discovered
comparable to triple eradication therapy (Salem et al., 2010). in the herb in 1985. Nigellone offers both anti-spasmodic
and bronchodilating properties which contribute to black
seed's potency against respiratory ailments. It also acts
Black seed improves the natural defense and repair as an antihistamine which helps to reduce the negative
mechanisms of the body symptoms of allergy sufferers. Thymoquinone contains
excellent anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. It is
Modern scientific studies have proven the immune also a strong anti-oxidant and helps cleanse the body of
enhancing effect of this blessed seed. It improves the toxins. Both nigellone and thymoquinone work in
natural defense and repair mechanisms of the body. It conjunction with one another to enhance black seed's
improves healing after surgery with less complications action against respiratory ailments. It also provides a
and faster recovery. It regulates blood pressure, healthy alternative to the more commonly prescribed
enhances bile and breast milk production, and stimulates cortisone based therapies used by allergy sufferers
 Hussain and Hussain 47

(http://www.khilafatworld.com/2012/02/health-benefits-of- /index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=138%3
black-seed-nigella.html). Ablack-seed-a-cure-for-every-disease&Itemid=74&lang=
en).

Black seed effective for the treatment of asthma

Black seed oil normalizes abnormal immune
There is potentially good news for the millions of reactions
worldwide asthmatics. The incidence of asthma is rising
and it is a difficult complaint to treat. Certain African and In addition, the excessive T-cell functions of the person
Asian cultures have been using black cumin seed oil to suffering from allergies are stabilized through substances
ease respiratory complaints for many centuries. One of in black seed oil. The suppressed antibodies further stop
the main constituents of black seed oil is nigellone which the abnormally rising immune reactions. The excessive
helps relieve the breathing difficulties of asthmatics by immune system is normalized and the large cell
dilating the bronchial tubes. Many asthmatics claim that degranulation decreased (http://www.manataka.org/page
they can either stop using their inhalers or at least reduce 1413.html).
their use after being treated with black seed oil. Nigella IslamWeb in an article on “Black seed (Nigella sativa):
sativa may help ease symptoms of asthma, according to A Cure for every disease” published on 14/03/2010
a small study published in 2007. For three months, 29 reports the following:
adults with asthma took either a placebo or a N. sativa
extract daily. Study results showed that those treated with In October 1999, the European Magazine of
N. sativa had significantly greater improvements in the Cancer published an article on the effect of
frequency and severity of asthma symptoms (such as thymoquinone on abdomen cancer in rats.
wheezing). Thymoquinone, one of the main active Likewise, in May 1998, a magazine specialized
constituents of N. sativa, is superior to the drug in anti-cancer researches published an article on
fluticasone in an animal model of asthma. Another study the extracts of the black seed as a treatment for
in human subjects found that boiled water extracts of cancer tumors. In April 2000, the Ethanol
black seed have relatively potent anti-asthmatic effect on Medical magazine wrote about the toxicity and
asthmatic airways. There is a patent in the UK on Asthma immunity effects of ethanol extract from the
(UK - EP1709995) (http://pjkim.altervista.org/nigella- black seeds. Also, in February 1995, Medical
sativa-health-benefits/?doing_wp_cron=1459507184.88 Plants magazine published an article on the
64591121673583984375). effects of the black seed stable oil and
thymoquinone on white blood cells. Many other
researches came out supporting these facts
American scientists confirm black seed has (http://www.islamweb.net/en/article/157049/blac
antibiotic, anti-oxidant, antihistaminic, anti-mycotic k-seed-nigella-sativa-a-cure-for-every-disease).
and broncho-dilating effects

Laboratory studies provided scientific support for the German scientists confirm the antibacterial and
traditional use of the black seed and its derived products antimitotic properties of black seed
as a treatment for rheumatism and related inflammatory
diseases. Tennekoon, et al. studied the possible hepato- A scientist of international repute, named Hans Wagner
toxicity of the black seed (Tennekoon et al., 1991). The published an article on the web. It summarizes many of
Journal of American Scientists reports that black seed the findings from scientific research papers and studies
has a number of useful properties such as antihistamine, that have already been published. Wagner states:
antioxidant, antibiotic, antimycotic and broncho-dilating
effects (http://www.islamweb.net/en/article/157049/black- “Recently, scientists around the world have
seed-nigella-sativa-a-cure-for-every-disease). confirmed the anti-bacterial and antimitotic
effects of black seed oil. It is known that
traditional medical practitioners in various
Black seed oil prevents cytomegalovirus countries around the world are using the oil
against inflammation of all sorts as well as fungi
In September 2000, the International Immunity Magazine infections. A remarkable reduction of blood
also published a research on the effect of black seed oil sugar levels has also been found by scientists.
in preventing cytomegalovirus on laboratory rats. Black Black Seed extracts have been found help to
seed oil has been tested as an anti-virus substance and stimulate bone marrow and immune cells.”
the immunity acquired during the early stages of the (http://www.befr.ebay.be/itm/blackseed-oil-habb
disease was measured through determining the natural atul-barakah-kalonji-black-cumin-size-60ml-
killer cells and other things (http://www.eajaz.org/eajaz double-deal/171709056122?hash=item27faa844
 Adv Med Plant Res 48

7a,13). Munich has, for a long time, been convinced about the
success of black seed oil. From his experience, the oil
helps stop inflammation and helps with neuro-dermitis.
A renowned Professor from the University of Munich He further mentions that at the International Cancer
says black seed extract develops immune system Congress in New Delhi, the anti-tumour effect of black
cumin oil has been introduced to many scientists and
Professor G. Rietmuller, Director of Institute for doctors (http://www.healthymuslim.com/articles/mdhpn-
Immunology at the University of Munich reports that black black-seed-oil-nigella-sativa-and-its-disease-preventing-
seed extract works positively on the immune system and effects.cfm).
could be used as a bio-regulator (http://www.peas
health.com/how-does-black-seed-help-to-cure-arthritis/).
It has been scientifically proved that the immunity system Anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic
is the only system that has the ability to combat diseases activities of Nigella sativa
and produce cells that kill viruses. In Antiviral Agents
Bulletin, U.S. Patents Sections it was also mentioned that The aqueous extract of N. sativa was investigated for
black seed increases immune function. anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic activities in
animal models. The extract has an anti-inflammatory
effect demonstrated by its inhibitory effects on
Black seed oil boosts the body’s immune system Carrageenan induced paw edema (Al-Ghamdi, 2001).

A weak immune system means that we are more prone

to illness and attack from unwanted foreign invaders. Cytotoxic and immunopotentiating effects of
There is ample evidence that black seed oil helps to ethanolic extracts of Nigella sativa
boost our immune system keeping us fit and healthy. One
study concluded that black seed oil taken daily could play In-vitro cytotoxic screening of extracts of Nigella sativa
a significant role in protecting us against diseases linked seeds (Ranunculaceae) indicated cytotoxicity in the ethyl-
to the immune system such as cancer and HIV (Seward, acetate fraction (EAF) against different classes of cancer
2015). cell lines (Swamy and Tan, 2000).

U.S. patent on the improvement of the immune system Nigella sativa - a potential antiosteoporotic agent
Recent research has provided evidence that most Ahmad Nazrun Shuid et al. report that Nigella sativa
illnesses arise because of an unbalanced or reverses osteoporosis in ovariectomized rats. (Evidence-
dysfunctional immune system which cannot perform its Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Jan
primary function of defending the body optimally. 2012, Vol. 2012:1-6).
Research also indicates that black seed contains an
ability to significantly boost the human immune system - if
taken over a period of time. There is a U.S. Patent on the Efficacy of Nigella sativa seed in dyslipidemia
Improvement of the Immune System (US 5,482,711)
(http://www.blackseedproducts.com/faqs/9-what-are-the- This pilot study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of
benefits-of-black-seed.html). Nigella sativa seed in the treatment of dyslipidemia. The
official title of the study is “Effectiveness of Nigella sativa
(Kalonji) Seed in Dyslipidemia”: A Randomized
Black seed cures pollen and dust allergies, asthma
Controlled Trial”.
and neuro-dermatis
Dyslipidemia is a common risk factor for cardiovascular
disease, the leading cause for morbidity and mortality
Experiences of doctors in Munich displayed that 70% of
among patients. Nigella sativa is an easily available and
patients with allergic conditions, among them being
acceptable remedy to treat dyslipidemia and at a low
pollen and dust allergies, asthma and neuro-dermitis
cost. It is expected that by scientifically determining the
were cured by N. sativa (http://www.asianhealthsecrets
effectiveness of this intervention it will lead to its
.com/black-cumin-seeds/).
widespread use. The study carried out in Phase 1, Phase
2 is to treat Hypercholesterolemia, Hypertension,
Diabetes Mellitus and Metabolic Syndrome X. The study
Anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour effects of black
was sponsored by Aga Khan University. It provides a low
seed oil
cost alternative to treat dyslipidemia (Effectiveness of
Professor Michael Meurer of the Dermatology Clinic in Nigella Sativa (Kalonji) Seed in Dyslipidemia,
 Hussain and Hussain 49

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT00327054, Aga Khan Black seed oil prevents hair loss, protects the skin
University, updated: June 30, 2015, https://clinicaltrials and reduces weight gain
.gov/ct2/show/NCT00327054).
Black seed oil has also been shown to help people lose
weight, restore hair loss and keep it healthy, provide
Black seed protects the liver from damage healthy skin benefits to give glow and healing, and
strengthen the immune system to fight infections (Hasani-
A healthy liver means a healthy body, which means a Ranjbar et al., 2013). There is some evidence that black
healthy mind. A poorly functioning liver will have seed oil can even have a positive cosmetic effect on your
widespread detrimental effects on the wellbeing. Besides body. Possibly due to its antioxidant and antimicrobial
the heart, the liver is considered to be the most important qualities, black seed oil is said to restore follicle strength
organ in our body. The liver is involved in nearly every and prevent hair damage and loss. Researchers have
bodily function and is vital in keeping our bodies free from also discovered that black seed oil could be beneficial to
hazardous toxins. Black seed oil can help speed up the your skin in general as well as used to treat certain skin
healing process for those who have poor liver function. complaints such as eczema (Seward, 2015).
Researchers have recently revealed that black seed oil
improves liver function and also helps to prevent damage
and disease. The seed oil can also benefit our heart in a Anti-obesity effects of black cumin
variety of ways. First of all, black seed oil is a rich source
Black cumin is associated with anti-obesity effects,
of omega acids which help strengthen the blood vessels
including reductions in body weight and waist and hip
and protect against arterial damage. The research carried
circumference, with Hasani-Ranjbar et al. (2013) noting:
out on rats in 2013 demonstrated that both liver and
kidney disease could be treated with black seed oil and
“Nigella sativa [black cumin] showed a
that it warranted further, more extensive trials in the
significant weight loss and reduced waist
future (http://healthyfocus.org/top-10-black-seed-oil-
circumference with a mild reduction in fasting
health-benefits/).
blood sugar, triglycerides and low-density
lipoprotein levels.”
Black seed oil can protect patients undergoing
chemotherapy or radiotherapy Treatment of acute tonsillopharyngitis

Research has proved that if the healthy parts of human Tonsillopharyngitis is characterized by tonsil or
bodies are destroyed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy pharyngeal inflammation (that is, sore throat), mostly viral
black seed could reduce and maybe eliminate damage to in origin. Black seed capsules (in combination with
healthy tissue. The research that has been cited clearly Phyllanthus niruri) have been found to significantly
shows that black seed oil could prevent radiation damage alleviate throat pain, and reduce the need for pain-killers,
to healthy tissue if it is given before radiation therapy and in human subjects (Ji, 2013).
is continued on a daily basis after each treatment. The
fact that there isn‟t any published research pointing to
human clinical trials (despite the success with using black Treatment of respiratory complications
seed oil with animals) is a true offense against people
who receive radiation treatment (http://www.justhealthy A randomized, placebo-controlled human study of
lifestyle.com/this-ancient-remedy-cures-all-diseases-hiv- chemical weapons injured patients found that boiled
aids-diabetes-cancer-stroke-stds-arthritis-more/). water extracts of black seed reduced respiratory
symptoms, chest wheezing, and pulmonary function test
values, as well as reduced the need for drug treatment.
The seed (in combination with Phyllanthus niruri) also
Black seed causes reduction of cholesterol level in found to alleviate throat pain in humans (https://sheama-
blood butters.com/products/black-cumin-seeds).
Research has also demonstrated that black seed oil can
significantly reduce cholesterol levels and lower blood Respiratory health
pressure. A study conducted in 2008 concluded that over
a period of 2 months, black seed oil taken daily had A number of studies have indicated black cumin may be
significantly positive effects on both cholesterol and blood helpful for asthmatics. In one study, thymoquinone was
pressure levels in patients with mild hypertension found to be instrumental by reducing two inflammatory
(healthyfocus.org). mediators of asthma and other inflammatory processes
 Adv Med Plant Res 50

(Mansour and Tornhamre, 2004). Another study sativa have been widely used in the treatment of different
confirmed the anti-asthmatic effect of black cumin extract, diseases and ailments. In Islamic literature, it is
showing it acts as a bronchodilator (Boskabady et al., considered as one of the greatest forms of healing
2010). medicine. It has been recommended for using on regular
Further, black cumin seeds act as a relaxant and basis in Tibb-e-Nabawi (Prophetic Medicine). It has been
display both anticholinergic (reducing spasms in smooth widely used as antihypertensive, liver tonics, diuretics,
muscle) and antihistaminic (blocking allergic reactions) digestive, anti-diarrheal, appetite stimulant, analgesics,
effects. The thymoquinone in black cumin seeds was anti-bacterial and in skin disorders.”
even found to be superior to the asthma drug fluticasone According to Butt and Sultan (2010), “Recent
(a synthetic glucocorticoid) (Keyhanmanesh et al., 2010). pharmacological investigations suggested its [black
cumin‟s] potential role, especially for the amelioration of
oxidative stress through free radical scavenging activity,
Treatment of opiate addiction/withdrawal the induction of apoptosis to cure various cancer lines,
the reduction of blood glucose, and the prevention of
A study on 35 opiate addicts found black seed as an complications from diabetes.
effective therapy in long-term treatment of opioid It regulates hematological and serological aspects and
addiction and withdrawal. The seeds are also used in can be effective in dyslipidemia and respiratory disorders.
cases of long-term opiate addiction and withdrawal Moreover, its immunopotentiating and immunomodulating
(https://sheama-butters.com/products/black-cumin- role brings balance in the immune system. Evidence is
seeds). available supporting the utilization of N. sativa and its
bioactive components in a daily diet for health
improvement.”
Prevention of Alzheimer’s disease

Thymoquinone extract from N. sativa prevents Culinary uses for black cumin
Alzheimer's associated neurotoxicity. Thymoquinone
(TQ), a bioactive constituent of N. sativa Linn. has The benefits of black cumin are tremendous. The oil is
demonstrated several neuropharmacological attributes. In available in supplement form, but one can easily add the
the present study, the neuroprotective properties of TQ seeds to his or her regular meals. It is popular in North
were investigated by studying its anti-apoptotic potential Indian, Pakistani, Bangladeshi and Iranian cuisines, with
to diminishβ-amyloid peptide 1-40 sequence (Aβ1-40)- a warm, slightly bitter flavor. One can add the seeds to
induced neuronal cell death in primary cultured cerebellar casseroles, stir fries, salad dressings (try them mixed
granule neurons (CGNs) (Ismail et al., 2013). with lemon, cilantro etc.) and baked goods, sprinkle them
on salads, or even add them to one‟s coffee or tea. One
can also make black cumin tea by pouring hot water over
Thymoquinone also prevents brain pathology the seeds (about one tablespoon) and letting it steep for
associated with Parkinson's disease 10 min (http://www.kitchendoctor.com/herbs/black_cumin
.php).
Thymoquinone from N. sativa extract protects cultured Aside from their culinary uses, a mixture of black
neurons against ASN-induced synaptic toxicity, a cumin, honey and garlic makes a powerful tonic for
pathology observed in the brains of patients with soothing coughs and boosting immunity, especially
Parkinson's disease and dementia (Alhebshi et al., 2013). during cold and flu season or if you feel like you‟re
coming down with an infection (http://www.kitchen
doctor.com/herbs/black_cumin.php). Black cumin oil can
Black seed helps in the treatment of insomnia even be used topically to treat psoriasis and eczema or
mixed with facial cream to moisturize and soothe your
Black seed oil is a natural remedy for sleep. Research skin.
reveals that black seed oil can help eliminate sleep
disorders and make one to sleep better and more
restfully. Those suffering from insomnia should take one Aqueous extract of black seeds is safe to consume
teaspoon of black seed oil and one teaspoon of honey in
warm milk one hour before going to sleep. Rub the Recent studies of the oral administration of aqueous
temples with the oil and turn off the lights. Those taking extracts of the seeds of N. sativa for 14 days have been
the oil should have only a light dinner, avoid sugary shown to cause no toxicity symptoms in male Sprague-
product just before bedtime. This helps to rest the Dawley rats (Tennekoon et al., 1991). The safety of
pancreas that produces insulin. consuming N. sativa seeds was also recently reported by
According to Ahmad et al. (2013), “The seeds of N. Al-Homidan et al. (2002), whereby the seeds did
 Hussain and Hussain 51

not affect the growth of 7-day-old Hibro broiler chicks inhibition of cancer cell growth (US 5,653,981),
when fed to them at 20 and 100 g/kg of the diet for 7 improvement of the immune system (US 5,482,711), viral
weeks. infections (US 6,841,174), psoriasis (US 6,531,164) and
Asthma (UK - EP1709995).

Use of black seeds is safe in pregnancy

Method of use and dosage
Generally black seeds have no side effects. The extract
is safe to consume. According to Mission Islam, Asma Black seed is available as pure oil and capsule forms.
Rice, writes in her detailed article on black seed that Either form may be taken preventively and for immune
many Muslim ladies take it during their pregnancy without support. It is imperative to purchase organic, cold
any problem. She confirms to have taken the remedy pressed oil that is free of additives. Most often, the
herself during all her pregnancies without any side extract is produced by a process referred to as cold
effects. However, it is always recommended to consult a pressing. Temperatures not higher than 140 to 176°F (60
doctor especially if one‟s condition needs medical to 80°C) are applied to the seeds to help release the oil
attention. Pregnant women should consult professional and preserve its benefits.
medical care provider before taking black seed or its oil It is always recommended that every medication should
during pregnancy. It is recommended that pregnant be taken in the right dose. A small dose may not benefit
women whose wombs are sensitive take very low dosage but it does not harm but an overdose definitely may pose
of the extract. a risk. Eating in large quantities does not mean that
healing will be faster. The maximum recommended dose
by most herbalists is 2 teaspoon a day. It is always better
Precautions to take a small dose. A general recommendation is to
take seven small seeds crushed or one teaspoon of black
Safety of extracts of black seed in young children has not seed oil. It is recommended to take the dose under the
been established. Patients with liver or kidney disease guidance of an expert and according to the ailment.
are advised not to use this product unless a physician Generally, most experts advise that it should not be taken
directs them to do so. Black seed extract is reported to in large quantities. A maximum of two table teaspoon a
lower blood sugar levels. So it is useful in the treatment day of the oil or 500 mg of black seed is considered to be
of diabetes mellitus. Modern researchers have the right dose. In a study which was conducted in
recommended an effective dose of 2 g black seed daily Munich, 600 patients who suffered from allergy were
for three months for complete cure from diabetes. given 500 mg of black seed for 3 months. The success
However, a diabetic patient is advised to consult with a rate was found to be 85% (http://www.peashealth.com/
physician before using the extract. black-seed-a-miracle-cure/).
The oil is the most effective form for consuming black
cumin, because the oil is more concentrated than whole
Side effects seeds and is more readily assimilated. Also, because of
its potent, absorbable concentration, only 1 teaspoon is
Black seed is a safe and effective herb that can be used needed per dose. It is usually recommended to take 1
by almost anyone. In general, black cumin seed extract is teaspoon of the oil two times per day for therapeutic
not associated with serious side effects. No irritations or effects, on an empty stomach before meals and bedtime.
side effects are caused when the right dose is correctly Black cumin can be taken once daily as a preventative
applied. However, it has been reported that black seed measure or for a healthy maintenance dose for all
extract has a very low degree of toxicity, and may cause illnesses and life-long wellness.
significant negative effects on liver and kidney function. A
recommended daily allowance (RDA) has not been Recommended dosage for cancer therapy
established for the extract, so it is wise to consult with an
experienced physician before beginning any internal Recent scientific studies conclude that black seed oil
administration. offers a powerful protective effect against radiation and
chemotherapy, and is a potent anti-cancer agent. There
are some websites that specify daily dosage for the use
Black seed has United States and United Kingdom of black seeds and black seed oil for the treatment of
patents cancer. We recommend that for a cancer patient the
benefit from taking black seed or its oil is best achieved
Due to safety as well as efficacy, black seed currently when taking daily doses for a period of not less than
has now five separate patents in the U.S. and one in the three months. So for cancer, we recommend three
UK. These are: treatment of diabetes (US 6,042,834), teaspoons daily in divided doses combined with a healthy
 Adv Med Plant Res 52

cancer diet and exercise program. Continue the cancer properties that have been shown by all these
medication for a considerable period of time for positive studies. But despite several decades of very positive
results. The Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬in the beginning of his statement research on using black seed oil against cancer,
said, “Use this seed regularly.” However, one can eat it researchers have rarely advanced their work into human
raw, add a teaspoon to one‟s salad or mix it with a good clinical testing, even though the benefits are strong and
quality honey. When taken regularly as part of a healthy the risks of negative side effects are extremely small
lifestyle, black seed helps to stabilize and rebuild our (Thomas, 2014). Moreover, despite the tremendous
body‟s defense mechanisms in a gentle and natural way. success with using black seed oil there is not much
It is an ideal supplement for health and wellbeing. published research pointing to systematic human clinical
trials.
Since black seed has been proven to be non-toxic to
Recommended dosage for arthritis and head cold healthy human cells, then why are the scientists still
doing laboratory research or delaying in undertaking
For arthritis, swallow capsules; apply pure oil to affected systematic and target-oriented human trials?” To further
area. For respiratory problems, dilute oil (1 part black explain we must say that black seeds and black seed oil
seed oil to 5 parts olive oil), rub on chest and back; heat are food. They are completely edible and very safe. They
some oil and inhale the vapors. For head cold, rub do not have harmful side effects. They have been used
forehead and sides of face close to the ears with black for flavoring food and have been used as daily tonics and
seed oil. As an energy tonic, take the oil in orange juice in remedies for thousands of years. It is a safe and
the morning. Black seed also relieves insomnia. For promising anticancer agent. It protects the heart and
sleep disturbances, take one teaspoon of Black Seed oil other vital organs from the painful side effects of
and one teaspoon of honey in warm milk. Rub the temp- chemotherapy and radiotherapy. Thymoquinone, the
les with the oil and turn of the lights. bioactive constituent of the oil of black seed (54%), has
been shown to exert anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant and
anti-neoplastic effects both in vitro and in vivo. This
Recommended dosage for treating other ailments compound is also safe. Therefore, there is no need to
make further test tube research. Research that is
For specific diseases two or three teaspoons daily are currently needed is the protocol for using black seed or
suggested. Sometimes it is taken with honey and its oil in a clinical setting with cancer patients. It is time for
sometimes it is applied to the skin. One teaspoon seems planned clinical trials. So we urge the global scientific
to be a daily dose to support health. To improve the community to begin systematic human clinical trials
immune system, take one teaspoon daily mixed with raw without wasting any more time.
honey or fresh juice one hour before breakfast. I urge the It is necessary to mention it that although the statement
clinical pharmacists for researching the individual specific on N. sativa was made by the unlettered Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬of
health concerns to find the appropriate treatments and Islam, the non-Muslims were more serious than the
the duration that will work effectively for individual Muslims in conducting the research on black seed. They
situation. had the strong faith that unless under divine inspiration
the Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬could not have said so. Therefore, they
had gone all the way to find out the truth and authenticity
Number of diseases so far cured by using black seed of the statement, and they eventually succeeded in
and its oil verifying the truth of the statement. We know that light,
wind and oxygen bestowed by Allah (God) are for all
According to the previous and recent scientific living beings. Gifts of science and nature are also for
researches carried out in various parts of the world, black every people on the face of the earth. Similarly the
seed is found effective in providing healing for 129 types Prophetic traditions on healing are for the entire mankind.
of human ailments (Table 1) including 16 different types They are not only for the Muslims, but for the people of
of cancer, diabetes, asthma, cold, hypertension, all nations and in all ages, irrespective of their religious
Alzeimer‟s disease, Parkinson‟s syndrome and AIDS. beliefs, colour, language and creed. Anyone can obtain
the benefits of his statements on health and hygiene, and
sickness and cure. It is known that until recently not many
DISCUSSION people in the U.S. and UK have heard of black seed. But
it is used by a large portion of the world‟s population and
After reviewing the findings of most of the scientific it has been around for hundreds of years as a natural
researches published in the internet on the use of black remedy for a variety of ailments. It has been known to
seed extract, seed‟s oil and the isolated bioactive cure just about anything from allergies to hypertension,
compound, thymoquinone, it is concluded that both black and then to cancer. The oil is an effective anti-oxidant,
seed extract and black seed oil possess significant anti- anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory remedy for many
 Hussain and Hussain 53

Table 1. List of diseases curable by black seeds and its oil.

1. Liver cancer 36. Migraines 71. Blood clotting 106. Parkinson‟s disease
2. Brain cancer 37. Earache 72. Osteoporosis 107. Alzheimer‟s disease
3. Skin cancer 38. Backache 73. Dizziness 108. Bacterial infections
4. Pancreatic cancer 39. Snakebites 74. Polio 109. Acute tonsillopharyngitis
5. Cervical cancer 40. Rheumatism 75. Fatigue 110. Follicle strength restoration
6. Breast cancer 41. Bronchial asthma 76. Hair damage 111. Neuro-dermatological illnesses
7. Bone cancer 42. Old tumors 77. Indurations 112. Increase milk production
8. Stomach cancer 43. Immune boosting 78. Liver tumors 113. Vermicide
9. Prostate cancer 44. Abdominal pain 79. Eczema 114. Abdominal tumour
10. Colon cancer 45. Skin rashes 80. Anti-aging 115. Skin conditioning
11. Lung cancer 46. Skin diseases 81. Kidney diseases 116. Opiate addiction/withdrawal
12. Kidneys cancer 47. Hepatic disorders 82. Scorpion stings 117. Helicobacter pylori infection
13. Cervix cancer 48. Blood homeostasis 83. Baldness 118. Increased urine flow
14. Esophagus cancer 49. Digestive disorders 84. Tachycardia 119. Hay fever
15. Melanoma 50. Memory loss 85. Bradycardia 120. Allergies
16. Lymphoma 51. Abortion 86. Skin parasites 121. Bladder infection
17. AIDS 52. Chest pains 87. Jaundice 122. Sore throat
18. Amoebic dysentery 53. Eye pain 88. Ear infection 123. gum bleeding
19. Shigellosis 54. Labor pains 89. Gallstones 124. depression and infertility
20. Abscesses 55. Heart burn 90. Impotence and sexual weakness 125. Lack of concentration
21. Mouth ulcer 56. Laziness 91. Mental degeneration 126. Menopausal complaints
22. Rhinitis 57. Ulcers 92. Hemorrhoids 127. Hormonal disorders
23. Acne 58. Diuresis 93. Various infections 128. Nausea and vomiting
24. Wrinkles 59. Epilepsy 94. Nasal congestion 129. Gastrointestinal complaints
25. Psoriasis 60. Edema 95. Bronchial disorders
26. Pain relief 61. Cold and influenza 96. Menstrual complaints
27. Wounds and burns 62. Itching 97. Promotion of lactation
28. Flatulence 63. Neuro-ermitis 98. Auto-immune diseases
29. Diarrhea 64. Dyslipidemia 99. Inflammatory diseases
30. Constipation 65. Dispiritedness 100. Promote menstruation
31. Skin care 66. Diabetes 101. Intestinal parasites
32. Dandruff 67. Whooping cough 102. High blood pressure
33. Hair loss 68. Obesity 103. Low blood pressure
34. Headaches 69. Dementia 104. Expelling worms
35. Toothaches 70. Schistosomiasis 105. Respiratory complications

ailments. Prophet (‫”)ﷺ‬, is now considered to be a cure for every

Although there were more than 400 herbs in use before disease on the face of the earth; and due to its
Prophet Muhammad (‫)ﷺ‬, and recorded in the herbals of tremendous potentials, its usage and popularity have
Galen and Hippocrates, black seed was not one of the increased significantly. Due to this reason, it is marketed
most popular remedies of that time. It has been reported and sold by many businesses. Amazing Herbs
that N. sativa is the only plant on the face of the earth on Nutraceuticals is one of the first companies in the USA to
which highest number of studies had been carried out. manufacture and distribute a complete line of nutritional
Over 5000 research projects have been undertaken by supplements made with black seed and black seed oil.
students and papers published on this seed, aqueous The product line consists of cold-pressed black seed oil,
extract and its oil. Scientists carried out extensive black seed oil and soft-gel capsules.
phytochemical, pharmacological, toxicological and Table 1 shows that black seed and its oil can
microbiological investigations on the black seed and its successfully treat over 129 different types of human
oil. The researchers conducted laboratory experiments ailments. The Human Effect Matrix looks at human
using intact animals and clinical trials using human studies (it excludes animal and in vitro studies) to tell one
volunteers. As a result, black seed being a "remedy of the what effects N. sativa has on the body, and how strong
 Adv Med Plant Res 54

these effects are (https://examine.com/supplements/ In the 1940s it was one out of every sixteen
nigella-sativa/#citations). So we call upon the scientific people. In the 1970s it was one person out of
community to let us know if there is any disease which is ten. Today one person out of three gets cancer
not treatable by black seed. Is there any single drug or in the course of their life. So the situation is
pharmaceutical preparation other than black seed that serious. In terms of cost of cancer therapy the
can cure such a large number of diseases? With all of situation is alarming. In 2014, there were an
these numerous health benefits, we cannot think of any estimated 1,665,540 new cancer cases
reason why everyone on the planet should not have black diagnosed and 585,720 cancer deaths in the
seeds or its oil in their medicine cupboard or First Aid US. In 2014 in the US the medical costs were
Box! Therefore, we urge the developed world, particularly estimated to be $6 billion. The NCI states that
the West to discover black seed and accept it as an the medical costs of cancer care will be nearly
invaluable health tonic. Due to its huge medicinal $125 billion, with a projected 39 percent
potential it might well be a healthy, natural and safe increase to $173 billion by 2020. All of the
alternative to commercial pharmaceutical drugs. current research on cancer drugs is based on
Recent scientific researches reveal that black seed or the premise that the cancer market will grow, not
its oil can successfully treat 16 different types of cancer shrink. It has been reported that the current
including diabetes, AIDS, rheumatism and many other cancer industry prospers while treating cancer,
ailments. Therefore, this Prophetic remedy can easily but cannot afford to cure.
replace modern chemotherapy and radiotherapy usually Although there have been various alternative
prescribed for treating cancer patients. Its effectiveness is cancer therapies that have been proven
supported by a large number of modern scientific effective, but that are not approved by the FDA,
researches. Therefore we humbly opine that it can be a because pharmaceutical companies are
safe and very effective alternative to modern medicine for opposed to the development of all forms of
the treatment of cancer, diabetes, AIDS etc. in terms of cancer treatment. They work together with the
cost-effectiveness. The modern chemotherapy and US FDA and various US government cancer
radiotherapy cost from $5000 to $10,000 or even more, research funding agencies to prevent new
whereas less than five dollars will be adequate for the treatments from being approved for use by
cancer therapy using black seed and patients do not physicians. The reason is that most alternative
need to remain admitted in hospitals. The treatment can cancer treatments are much less expensive than
be done at home. Therefore, the cost of treatment will be surgery, radiation, and chemo. They are also
almost nothing. more effective and have many fewer or no
We are not aware of the success rate of modern cancer unwanted side effects. The great fear of the
therapy. But post therapy complications of this therapy pharmaceutical industry is that a non-patentable
are very severe, whereas there are no side effects of and inexpensive cure for cancer might put them
black seed remedy. If someone is on chemotherapy it is out of business. These organizations exist to
thought that his recovery is almost negative. Therefore, it turn a profit from cancer treatment, which is
is the views of the authors that in case all existing measured in the billions of dollars every year.
therapies failed to provide healing to someone, the They are in the business of treating cancer not
physician should advise him to resort to this marvelous curing it (Thomas, 2014).
Prophetic remedy. We recommend that there should be a
separate unit in each hospital for healing with black seed. In view of the above global scenario there is an urgent
Because, black seed has proved to be a genuine need for introducing alternative cancer therapies. Out of
universal remedy and it is an extraordinary herb which the alternative therapies we recommend black seed
can be the primary health-bolstering agent of the therapy prescribed by the Prophet Muhammad (‫ )ﷺ‬for all
millennium. It can therefore, be concluded that black diseases, of which cancer is one. Since Islam is the
seed is an All-In-One therapy. complete and eternal way of human life, it includes all
Recently a book titled, We Lost the War on Cancer - aspects of human life, including disease, medicine and
Review of Alternative Cancer Therapies, authored by health, for the benefit of humankind during his transient
John Thomas and edited by Brian Shilhavy, has been stay on earth. This is because man needs to remain well,
published as kindle edition. Amazon.com rates the book free from sickness to fulfill his brief mission on earth.
as one of the best books of the month of April 2016. In Therefore, all we need is the implementation of divine
his book John Thomas writes: cure for this fatal disease, not man-made cure so far
discovered. Although the Prophet‟s arrival was not as a
The people of America have lost war on cancer doctor or pharmacist he was inspired by Allah SWT to
and they now want a review of the alternative make over 1000 statements on healing as divine cure for
cancer therapies. At the beginning of the last the benefit of man, and it is very amazing that not a
century, one person in twenty would get cancer. single tradition of the Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬is found to be
 Hussain and Hussain 55

contradictory to the basic principles of modern medical Alenzi FQ, El-Bolkiny Yel-S, Salem ML, 2010. Protective effects
of Nigella sativa oil and thymoquinone against toxicity induced by the
science. We therefore urge the US and other developed anticancer drug cyclophosphamide. Br J Biomed Sci, 67:20–28.
countries to consider black seed therapy for conducting Al-Ghamdi MS, 2001. The anti-inflammatory, analgesic and antipyretic
systematic and organized clinical trial without any delay, activity of Nigella sativa. J Ethnopharmacol, 76(1): 45-48.
and if successful let FDA approve it as commercial drugs Alhebshi AH, Odawara A, Gotoh M, Suzuki I, 2013. Thymoquinone
protects cultured hippocampal and human induced pluripotent stem
without any patent right for the interest of health of the
cells-derived neurons againstα-synuclein-induced synapse damage.
common people of the world. Neurosci Lett, 570:126-131.
Al-Sheddi ES, Farshori NN, Al-Oqail MM, Musarrat J, Al-Khedhairy AA,
Siddiqui MA, 2014. Cytotoxicity of Nigella sativa seed oil and extract
against human lung cancer cell line. Asian Pac J Cancer Prev,
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the truth of the Prophet‟s statements mentioned fourteen Bamosa AO, Kaatabi H, Lebdaa FM, Elq AM, Al-Sultanb A, 2010.
Effect of Nigella sativa seeds on the glycemic control of patients with
centuries ago, which says that “Nigella sativa (black type 2 diabetes mellitus. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol, 54(4):344-54.
seed) is a remedy (cure) for all diseases (ailments) Boskabady MH, Mohsenpoor N, Takaloo L, 2010. Antiasthmatic effect
except death”. Moreover, the Prophet (‫ )ﷺ‬made the of Nigella sativa in airways of asthmatic patients, Phytomedicine,
statement at a time when there was no discovery of 17(10):707-713.
Butt MS, Sultan MT, 2010. Nigella sativa: reduces the risk of various
medical science or pharmacy.This further confirms that maladies. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr, 50(7):654-65.
no one can claim the credit of knowing all these hidden Cikman O, Ozkan A, Aras AB, Soylemez O, Alkis H, Taysi S,
medical facts fourteen centuries ago, except a Prophet Karaayvaz M, 2014. Radioprotective effects of Nigella sativa oil
(‫ )ﷺ‬and a chosen man of God (Allah), because Allah against oxidative stress in liver tissue of rats exposed to total head
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reveals in the Qur‟an that “He does not speak anything of Clark I, 2014. Black cumin seed oil: Your ultimate life elixir.
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Dingir IB, 2014. 20 health benefits of black Nigella seeds and oil.
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scientific research papers for obtaining information from nigella-seeds-and-oil/.
Effenberger K, Breyer S, Schobert R, 2010. Terpene conjugates of the
therein and citing the results of scientific studies on black Nigella sativa seed-oil constituent thymoquinone with enhanced
seed and its oil as well as website owners for giving us efficacy in cancer cells. Chem Biodivers, 7:129–139.
access to view their sites. Effenberger-Neidnicht K, Schobert R, 2011. Combinatorial effects of
thymoquinone on the anti-cancer activity of doxorubicin. Cancer
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Faisal R, Chiragh S, Popalzai AJ, Rehman KU, 2015. Anti-inflammatory
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induced arthritis in rats. J Pak Med Assoc, 65(5):519-525.
Fallah Huseini H, Amini M, Mohtashami R, Ghamarchehre ME,
Black seed is not a cure or a substitute. The information Sadeqhi Z, Kianbakht S, Fallah Huseini A, 2013. Blood pressure
contained in this review article is the findings of hundreds lowering effect of Nigella sativa L. seed oil in healthy volunteers: a
of modern scientific researches carried out on whole randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. Phytother
black seeds and its water and alcoholic extracts. It is for Res, 27(12):1849-1853.
Gali-Muhtasib H, El-Najjar N, Schneider-Stock R, 2006. The medicinal
academic purposes only and should not be used for
potential of black seed (Nigella sativa) and its components. In: MTH.
diagnosis or to guide treatment without the opinion of a Khan and A. Ather, Lead Molecules from Natural Products: Discovery
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his or her health, has failed to have any improvement in Goreja WG, 2003. Black Seed: The Miracle Herb of the Century,
Amazing Herbs. http://www.amazingherbs.com/research.html.
his/her own health condition following a modern therapy, Hasani-Ranjbar S, Jouyandeh Z, Abdollahi M, 2013. A systematic
which led him/her to lose faith on the efficacy of modern review of anti-obesity medicinal plants - an update. J Diabetes Metab
medicine, can use this remedy on his or her own. Disord, 12(1):28.
However, prior to using a particular Prophetic remedy he Hassan MI, Mabrouk GM, Shehata HH, Aboelhussein MM, 2012.
Antineoplastic effects of bee honey and Nigella sativa on
should consult an experienced physician for advice. hepatocellular carcinoma cells. Integr Cancer Ther, 11(4):354-63.
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