Black Seed Helps in Combating Allergies

Negative environmental factors can cause an increase in allergic diseases. Childhood mortality due to bronchial asthma has more than doubled during the past decade. In the United States, approximately 200 children die of asthma each year; over 150,000 are hospitalized because of asthma, and around 5 million have the disease. Bronchial asthma is a genetically based, multifactorial disease that is aggravated by a number of factors such as infections, allergen exposure, tobacco smoke and environmental pollutants. Likewise, hay fever, a typical inhalation allergy, is generally triggered by wind-borne pollen and represents the acute form of seasonal allergic rhinitis.

The lymphatic system of the intestines and bronchi is constantly confronted with numerous food and environmental antigens. In addition to its defensive function, the lymphatic system must ensure tolerance to its own intestinal flora and other substances. Stabilization of the arachidonic acid metabolism via modulation of prostaglandin and leukotriene production, and stabilization of interleukins and tumour necrosis factor (TNF) has been shown to safeguard the body from allergic reactions.

Scientific evidence indicates that black seed oil contains pharmacologically active substances such as thymoquinones, dithymoquinones, thymohydroquinones and thymol that modify leukotriene synthesis and inhibit histamine release. Some of the studies that evaluated the antiallergic potency of black seed oil in animals demonstrated that even small concentrations of its active constituents effectively inhibited the release of histamine from mast cells.

Four human studies showed that black seed oil is indeed capable of relieving symptoms of allergic rhinitis, atopic eczema, and bronchial asthma. The effect of black seed oil on inhalation allergies, the most common type of allergic disease, was determined in two placebo-controlled studies (one in children and one in adults) and in two open-label studies also involving children and adults. Depending on their body weight, the patients took three to seven 500 mg of black seed oil capsules each day. Improvement of allergy symptoms was observed in all four studies. The complaints of patients with allergic rhinitis decreased significantly. This was especially evident in the studies involving children, where approximately 80% of the children had improvement of allergic rhinitis symptoms. The children with bronchial asthma treated in the open-label studies study also had relevant and significant improvement of clinical symptoms. Nigella sativa oil also proved to be very effective in adult subjects with allergic rhinitis.

A possible explanation for the positive clinical effects observed in the human studies can be drawn from animal experiments. One study for example, showed that Nigella sativa oil inhibited the cyclooxygenase and 5- lipoxygenase pathways of arachidonic acid metabolism, resulting in the decreased synthesis of thromboxane and leukotrienes. Leukotrienes, in particular, are contributing factors for the development of bronchial asthma since they develop proinflammatory activity. Leukotriene receptor antagonists are therefore used for treatment of bronchial asthma. Researchers have not only found that this effect is induced by thymoquinone, but other compounds of black seed oil as well.

In Arabian folk medicine, black seed alone or in combination with honey is used as a treatment for bronchial asthma. In a recent study involving twenty-nine asthmatic adults, black seed given for three months, significantly improved all asthma symptoms including chest wheezing and pulmonary functions tests. Furthermore, the usage of inhalers and other asthma medications decreased in the patients receiving black seed. The researchers believed the results of the study confirmed previous studies indicating a relaxant effect of black seed on airway smooth muscle. They also noted the antitussive effect of black seed oil.

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Boskabady MH, Javan H, Sajady M, et al. The possible prophylactic effect of Nigella sativa seed extract in asthmatic patients. Fundam Clin Pharmacol. 2007 Oct;21(5):559-66.
Boskabady MH, Kiani S, Jandaghi P, et al. Antitussive of Nigella sativa. Pak J Med Sci. 2004; 20: 224-228.
Boskabady MH, Shahabi M. Bronchodilatory and anticholinergic effects of Nigella sativa on isolated guinea-pig tracheal chains. Iran J Med Sci. 1997; 22: 127-133.
Chakravarty N. Inhibition of histamine release from mast cells by nigellone. Ann Allergy. 1993 Mar;70(3):237-42.
Ghosheh OA, Houdi AA, Crooks PA. High performance liquid chromatographic analysis of the pharmacologically active quinones and related compounds in the oil of the black seed (Nigella sativa L.). J Pharm Biomed Anal. 1999 Apr;19(5):757-62.
Houghton PJ, Zarka R, de las Heras B, et al. Fixed oil of Nigella sativa and derived thymoquinone inhibit eicosanoid generation in leukocytes and membrane lipid peroxidation. Planta Med. 1995 Feb;61(1):33-6.
Jäger L, Kroegel C. [Leukotriene receptor antagonists and bronchial asthma] [Article in German] Arzneimittelforschung. 1998 Mar;48(3):205-11.
Kalus U, Pruss A, Bystron J, et al. Effect of Nigella sativa (black seed) on subjective feeling in patients with allergic diseases. Phytother Res. 2003 Dec;17(10):1209-14.
Landrigan PJ, Carlson JE, Bearer CF, et al. Children's health and the environment: a new agenda for prevention research. Environ Health Perspect. 1998 Jun;106 Suppl 3:787-94.

Cancer Prevention by using Black Seed

Very recently, researchers at Kimmel Cancer at Jefferson in Philadelphia discovered that thymoquinone blocked pancreatic cancer cell growth and killed the cells by enhancing the process of programmed cell death. Using a human pancreatic cancer cell line, researchers found that adding thymoquinone killed approximately 80 percent of the cancer cells. They showed that thymoquinone triggered programmed cell death in the cells, and that a number of important genes, including p53, Bax, bcl-2 and p21, were affected. Expression of p53, a tumour suppressor gene, and Bax, a gene that promotes programmed cell death, was increased, while bcl-2, which blocks such cell death, was decreased. The p21 gene, which is involved in the regulation of different phases of the cell cycle, was substantially increased. Researchers also found that thymoquinone caused epigenetic changes in pancreatic cancer cells, modifying the cells DNA.

In a recent animal study, thymoquinone treatment not only inhibited tumor cell invasion and proliferation in C26 colorectal cancer cells but, also reduced the growth of colon cancer cells in two different in vivo models. Tumor growth inhibition by thymoquinone is believed to be attributed to its potent antiinflammatory and antioxidant effects, in addition to the induction of apoptosis. Oxygen radicals, especially nitric oxide, cause p53 gene mutations, chromosomal change and activation of signal transduction pathways involved in cell growth. Thymoquinone has been shown to inhibit superoxide anions and nitric oxide production involved in tumorigenesis.

Many investigators have shown that the growth inhibitory effects of thymoquinone are specific to cancer cells. In fact, thymoquinone has shown significant anti-neoplastic activity against human pancreatic adenocarcinoma, uterine sarcoma and leukemic cell lines, while it is only minimally toxic to normal cells.

What's more, thymoquinone treatment has been found to alleviate the toxicity of several anticancer drugs by reducing their toxicity to the heart, kidney, liver and central nervous system.

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al-Shabanah OA, Badary OA, Nagi MN, et al. Thymoquinone protects against doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity without compromising its antitumor activity. J Exp Clin Cancer Res. 1998 Jun;17(2):193-8.
Arafat H. 18 May at the Digestive Disease Week in San Diego.
Badary OA, Taha RA, Gamal el-Din AM, et al. Thymoquinone is a potent superoxide anion scavenger. Drug Chem Toxicol. 2003 May;26(2):87-98.
Badary OA, Nagi MN, al-Shabanah OA, et al. Thymoquinone ameliorates the nephrotoxicity induced by cisplatin in rodents and potentiates its antitumor activity. Can J Physiol Pharmacol. 1997 Dec;75(12):1356-61.
Cerutti PA. Oxy-radicals and cancer. Lancet. 1994 Sep 24;344(8926):862-3.
El-Mahmoudy A, Shimizu Y, Shiina T, et al. Successful abrogation by thymoquinone against induction of diabetes mellitus with streptozotocin via nitric oxide inhibitory mechanism. Int Immunopharmacol. 2005 Jan;5(1):195-207.
El-Mahmoudy A, Matsuyama H, Borgan MA, et al. Thymoquinone suppresses expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase in rat macrophages. Int Immunopharmacol. 2002 Oct;2(11):1603-11.
Gali-Muhtasib H, Ocker M, Kuester D, et al. Thymoquinone reduces mouse colon tumor cell invasion and inhibits tumor growth in murine colon cancer models. J Cell Mol Med. 2008 Jan-Feb;12(1):330-42.
Gali-Muhtasib H, Roessner A, Schneider-Stock R. Thymoquinone: a promising anti-cancer drug from natural sources. Int J Biochem Cell Biol. 2006;38(8):1249-53.
Gali-Muhtasib HU, Abou Kheir WG, Kheir LA, et al. Molecular pathway for thymoquinone-induced cell-cycle arrest and apoptosis in neoplastic keratinocytes. Anticancer Drugs. 2004 Apr;15(4):389-99.
Mansour MA, Nagi MN, El-Khatib AS, et al. Effects of thymoquinone on antioxidant enzyme activities, lipid peroxidation and DT-diaphorase in different tissues of mice: a possible mechanism of action. Cell Biochem Funct. 2002 Jun;20(2):143-51.
Mansour MA, Ginawi OT, El-Hadiyah T, et al. Effects of volatile oil constituents of Nigella sativa on carbon tetrachloride-induced hepatotoxicity in mice: evidence for antioxidant effects of thymoquinone. Res Commun Mol Pathol Pharmacol. 2001;110(3-4):239-51.
Mansour MA. Protective effects of thymoquinone and desferrioxamine against hepatotoxicity of carbon tetrachloride in mice. Life Sci. 2000 May 19;66(26):2583-91.
Salomi NJ, Nair SC, Jayawardhanan KK, et al. Antitumour principles from Nigella sativa seeds. Cancer Lett. 1992 Mar 31;63(1):41-6.
Worthen DR, Ghosheh OA, Crooks PA. The in vitro anti-tumor activity of some crude and purified components of blackseed, Nigella sativa L. Anticancer Res. 1998 May-Jun;18(3A):1527-32.

Diabetes Prevention by using Black Seed

Diabetes mellitus results in severe metabolic imbalances and pathological changes in many tissues. Oxidative stress has been shown to play an important role in the etiology of diabetes and diabetic complications. Diabetics exhibit high-oxidative stress due to persistent and chronic hyperglycemia, thereby reducing the activity of the antioxidative defense system and thus promoting free radical generation. Several interactive pathogenetic mechanisms of diabetic peripheral neuropathy have been identified in both human and murine models and persistent hyperglycaemia has been regarded as a primary risk factor for neuropathy. Long-term hyperglycaemia can lead to subsequent enhanced oxidative stress, increased aldose reductase activity, and accumulation of advanced glycation endproducts (AGE). As a result, it could induce progressive damage to the peripheral sensory and autonomic nervous systems. To date, except for rigorous glycaemic control, there are few means to affect or slow the natural progression of diabetic peripheral neuropathy owing to limitations of the current and often inadequate drug therapy.

However, in a recent animal study, scientists found Nigella sativa and its pharmacologically active substance thymoquinone, affected blood glucose levels, and insulin. Furthermore, they suggested that the antioxidant activity of black seed may alleviate damage to b-cells in the pancreas. The study found less damage to tissues in diabetic animals treated with black seed and thymoquinone. The researchers concluded that the neuroprotective effects of thymoquinone and especially black seed are attributed to its direct and indirect antioxidant actions.

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Babaei-Jadidi R, Karachalias N, Ahmed N, et al. Prevention of incipient diabetic nephropathy by high-dose thiamine and benfotiamine. Diabetes. 2003 Aug;52(8):2110-20.
Baynes JW. Role of oxidative stress in development of complications in diabetes. Diabetes. 1991 Apr;40(4):405-12.
Cameron NE, Cotter MA, Basso M, et al. Comparison of the effects of inhibitors of aldose reductase and sorbitol dehydrogenase on neurovascular function, nerve conduction and tissue polyol pathway metabolites in streptozotocin-diabetic rats. Diabetologia. 1997 Mar;40(3):271-81.
Kanter M. Effects of Nigella sativa and its major constituent, thymoquinone on sciatic nerves in experimental diabetic neuropathy. Neurochem Res. 2008 Jan;33(1):87-96.
Karachalias N, Babaei-Jadidi R, Ahmed N, et al. Accumulation of fructosyl-lysine and advanced glycation end products in the kidney, retina and peripheral nerve of streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Biochem Soc Trans. 2003 Dec;31(Pt 6):1423-5.
Le PM, Benhaddou-Andaloussi A, Elimadi A, et al. The petroleum ether extract of Nigella sativa exerts lipid-lowering and insulin-sensitizing actions in the rat. J Ethnopharmacol. 2004 Oct;94(2-3):251-9.
[No authors listed] The effect of intensive diabetes therapy on the development and progression of neuropathy. The Diabetes Control and Complications Trial Research Group. Ann Intern Med. 1995 Apr 15;122(8):561-8.
[No authors listed] Failure of improved glycaemic control to reverse diabetic autonomic neuropathy. The St Thomas's Diabetic Study Group. Diabet Med. 1986 Jul-Aug;3(4):330-4.
Thorpe SR, Baynes JW. Role of the Maillard reaction in diabetes mellitus and diseases of aging. Drugs Aging. 1996 Aug;9(2):69-77.
Vague P, Coste TC, Jannot MF, et al. C-peptide, Na+,K(+)-ATPase, and diabetes. Exp Diabesity Res. 2004 Jan-Mar;5(1):37-50.

Black Seed Helps With Impotence

Today, Science has proven Black Seed Oil 's effectiveness as an immune system booster.

A seed few people in the U.S. have heard of has a fascinating history and is used by a large portion of the world's population. References to this seed can be found in some of the oldest religious and medical texts. It is called Black Seed. Black Seed (Nigella sativa) is a tiny seed from an herbaceous annual, which reaches a height of twelve to eighteen inches. It is believed to be indigenous to the Mediterranean but is cultivated in other parts of the world including North Africa, the Middle East and parts of Asia. The common English name for Nigella sativa is Love in a Mist. It is also called Black Cumin.

History of Black Seed

Black Seed was discovered in the tomb of the legendary Egyptian Pharaoh Tutankhamen, implying that it played an important role in ancient Egyptian practices. Although its exact role in Egyptian culture is not known, we do know that items entombed with a king were carefully selected to assist him in the afterlife. The earliest written reference to black seed is found in the book of Isaiah in the Old Testament: (Isaiah 28:25,27 NKJV).

Traditionally Black Seed has been used for a variety of ailments including bronchitis, asthma, rheumatism and related inflammatory conditions, increasing milk production in nursing mothers, digestive and eliminative disturbances, parasite infection and supporting immunity. Its oil is used to treat skin conditions such as eczema and boils and is used topically to treat cold symptoms. The classic text Medicines of the Prophet lists as many as fifty illnesses for which Black Seed has effective healing qualities.

Because of its complex chemical structure — it has over one hundred active ingredients — black cumin has positive effects on the respiratory, immune, circulatory, digestive, and urinary systems. It is potentially effective against asthma, stomach ailments, and numerous skin conditions, ranging from acne to psoriasis. Its many uses has earned it the popular title "Seed of Blessing".

Modern Research

Over 150 research papers on Black Seed have been published in recent times confirming many of the healing properties traditionally attributed to Black Seed.

In 1987, a study conducted at I.I.M.E.R. Panama City, Florida verified the immune-supporting action of Black Seed. Two randomized groups of volunteers received one-gram of Black Seed capsules twice daily or a placebo. A complete lymphocyte count carried out before and after four weeks of administration revealed that the majority of subjects who took Black Seed displayed a 72% increase in helper-to-suppressor T-cell ratio as well as an increase in NK (natural killer) cell functional activity.

In the field of AIDS research, human clinical trials conducted at the Department of Biological and Medical Research Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (1997) showed that Black Seed enhanced the ratio between helper T-cell by 55% with a 30% enhancement of NK cell activity. These findings suggest that Black Seed could play an important role in the treatment of cancer, AIDS, and other immune deficiency states.

In 1997 a study undertaken on the anti-cancer activity of the Black Seed undertaken at the International Immuno-Biology Research Laboratory, South Carolina concluded, "the activity of NS (Black Seed) blocked the tumor growth and dissemination in metastasis and have remarkable promises for clinical use."

Histamine is a substance released by body tissues, which often causes allergic reactions and is associated with conditions such as bronchial asthma. In 1960, scientists discovered that a substance called Nigellone (dimer dithymoquinone) isolated from Black Seed's volatile oil suppressed asthma symptoms in a majority of patients when given orally.

As early as 1960, it was reported that Black Seed oil has an anti-inflammatory effect and that it could be useful for relieving arthritis pain. Following up on these claims, a group of scientists from Kings College, Department of Pharmacy, London, decided to test Black Seed oil and its derivative thymoquinone as an anti-inflammatory agent. It was discovered that the agents possessed anti-oxidant activity and inhibited eicosanoid generation in cells. Certain eicosanoids (short lived local tissue hormones) are responsible for the inflammatory response whereas anti-oxidants help to slow cartilage degeneration.

The inhibitory effect on eicosanoid generation, however, was higher than could be expected from thymoquinone alone. This suggests that other compounds in the oil might be responsible for the enhanced anti-inflammatory reactions in cells. Researchers concluded that pharmacological properties of Black Seed and its derived products support the traditional use of Black Seed as a treatment for rheumatism and related inflammatory diseases.

In Europe ongoing scientific research has fueled immense public interest into the health benefits of using Black Seed, particularly in Austria and Germany, where Black Seed supplements are sold in most health stores and it is popularly regarded as an effective alternative medicine. It also has been the subject of intensive scientific research indicating that it strengthens and stabilizes the immune system and is greatly beneficial in the treatment of allergies. It has been found to be beneficial in the treatment of impotence when the causes are primarily physiological.

It seems Black Seed can be helpful for just about anything. However its use is not recommended during pregnancy. While much still remains to be investigated, studies conducted thus far, confirm Black Seed as a natural panacea.

Suggestions for using Black Seed

Black Seed is available as pure oil and capsules. Either form may be taken preventively and for immune support. For arthritis, swallow capsules; apply pure oil to affected area.

For respiratory problems, dilute oil (1 part Black Seed oil to 5 parts olive oil), rub on chest and back; heat some oil and inhale the vapors. For head cold, rub forehead and sides of face close to the ears with Black Seed oil.

As an energy tonic, take the oil in orange juice in the morning. In spite of it being used for energy, Black Seed also relieves insomnia. For sleep disturbances, take one teaspoon of Black Seed oil and one teaspoon of honey in warm milk. Rub the temp-les with the oil and turn of the lights.

Whole seeds can be found in many Indian and Persian markets and can be used in baked goods and pickles. Crush the seeds to use in beverages, curries or as a pepper substitute.

Until recently not many people knew of Ginseng. Now, the name is practically a household word. Will Americans discover Black Seed and accept it as an invaluable health tonic? Historical records and modern scientific research cannot be discounted.

Today, Science has proven Black Seed Oil 's effectiveness as an immune system booster. Black seed oil is a remedy for every disease except death. (Sahih Bukhari)

Upon reading the long list of ailments for which Black Seed is supposed to provide relief, many people react with disbelief. But the protective and healing powers of Black Seed are real, and they do not seem so impossible once we learn that they all stem mainly from Black Seed's ability to stabilize and strengthen the body's immune system. For thousands of years, Black Seed has been used as a virtual cure-all. Its traditional applications range from skincare to digestion and fertility. With a long and amazing history of beneficial use, Black Seed has been the subject of much modern research and the last few decades have provided scientific evidence for many of Black Seed's healing powers.

An Ancient Tradition

The use of Black Seed as a healing herb has been traced back more than 3000 years to the Assyrians and ancient Egypt. The oil pressed from Black Seed was known as the "Pharaohs' Oil" for it was the chosen treatment for numerous ailments and infections. The use of Black Seed soon spread to other parts of Africa and the Middle East and was well known by the sixth century when the Prophet Muhammad is reported to have said "Hold on to the use of Black Seed for it has a remedy for every illness except death". Evidence of the therapeutic use of Black Seed has been found all over the world, in Ancient Greece and Rome as well as Persia, India and China.

The works of Hippocrates, Dioscurides and Avicenna all show appreciation for the preventive and curative powers of Black Seed. Black Seed has been an essential ingredient in Eastern medicine as well, especially Ayurveda. In more recent times, Black Seed has been recommended as a herbal medicine by the World Health Organization, and ongoing scientific research in the West is continuously confirming the truth behind the tradition of Black Seed.

A Modern Rediscovery

In the last fifty years, Black Seed has been the subject of over two hundred university studies and research papers. The oil extracted from Black Seed (Nigella Sativa) has a rich composition of more than 100 compounds including essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals. The special powers of Black Seed are thought to result from a complex synergistic interaction of all these components. Scientists have yet to identify all the ingredients in this amazing herb, but they have been able to verify its beneficial use for the following complaints and symptoms of disease:

Digestive complaints and related metabolic disorders, including raised cholesterol levels and adult-onset diabetes.

Disorders of the immune system and their manifestations, including: allergic reactions like bronchial asthma, hay fever, and various skin diseases; and lowered immune resistance leading to chronic susceptibility to infection.

Respiratory disorders, including bronchitis.

Disorders of the hormonal system, including menstrual and menopausal complaints, depression and infertility. Circulatory and vascular disorders like high blood pressure and hemorrhoids.

General decrease in vitality, concentration difficulties and sleep disturbances.

Recent studies have focused on the regulatory influence of Black Seed on the immune system. Research has shown that regular use of Black Seed helped to strengthen and stabilize the immune system, thus enabling a variety of other illnesses to be eliminated or, at least, relieved. In related studies, scientists have found that Black Seed stimulates bone marrow and immune cell formation, protects the body against viruses, destroys tumor cells and inhibits infection. Work done at various cancer research institutes have also indicated that Black Seed holds "remarkable promise for clinical use in cancer treatment". Other clinical research has shown that the use of Black Seed significantly improves the T-cell ratio and at the same time enhances the natural killer cell activity. Thus Black Seed has much potential in the treatment of immune-deficiency diseases like cancer and AIDS.

Prevention is Better than Cure

Constant stress, psychological strain, environmental toxins, lack of sleep or exercise and an unbalanced diet are almost expected conditions of life in modern society.

Yet these are all factors which lead to a weakened immune system. The immune system and the digestive system are not only the main areas for the body's defenses but they are also the points where many health disorders originate. Black Seed has both a strengthening effect on the immune system as well as a detoxifying effect on the digestive system.

When taken regularly as part of a healthy lifestyle, Black Seed helps to stabilize and rebuild our body's defense mechanisms in a gentle and natural way. It is an ideal supplement for health and well being.

Traditional Herbal Medicine Kills Pancreatic Cancer Cells, Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson Researchers Report

(PHILADELPHIA) - An herb used in traditional medicine by many Middle Eastern countries may help in the fight against pancreatic cancer, one of the most difficult cancers to treat. Researchers at the Kimmel Cancer at Jefferson in Philadelphia have found that thymoquinone, an extract of Nigella sativa seed oil, blocked pancreatic cancer cell growth and killed the cells by enhancing the process of programmed cell death.

While the studies are in the early stages, the findings suggest that thymoquinone could eventually have some use as a preventative strategy in patients who have gone through surgery and chemotherapy or in individuals who are at a high risk of developing cancer.

According to Hwyda Arafat, M.D., Ph.D., associate professor of Surgery at Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Nigella sativa helps treat a broad array of diseases, including some immune and inflammatory disorders. Previous studies also have shown anticancer activity in prostate and colon cancers, as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Using a human pancreatic cancer cell line, she and her team found that adding thymoquinone killed approximately 80 percent of the cancer cells. They demonstrated that thymoquinone triggered programmed cell death in the cells, and that a number of important genes, including p53, Bax, bcl-2 and p21, were affected. The researchers found that expression of p53, a tumor suppressor gene, and Bax, a gene that promotes programmed cell death, was increased, while bcl-2, which blocks such cell death, was decreased. The p21 gene, which is involved in the regulation of different phases of the cell cycle, was substantially increased. She presents her findings May 18 at the Digestive Disease Week in San Diego.

Dr. Arafat and her co-workers also found that thymoquinone caused "epigenetic" changes in pancreatic cancer cells, modifying the cells' DNA. She explains that these changes involve adding acetyl groups to the DNA structure, specifically to blocks of proteins called histones. This "acetylation" process can be important for genes to be read and translated into proteins. In this case, it could involve the genes that are key to initiating programmed cell death. "We looked at the status of the histones and found surprisingly that thymoquinone increased the acetylation process," Dr. Arafat says. "We never anticipated that."

At the same time, adding thymoquinone to pancreatic cancer cells reduced the production and activity of enzymes called histone deacetylases (HDACs), which remove the acetyl groups from the histone proteins, halting the gene transcription process. Dr. Arafat notes that HDAC inhibitors are a "hot" new class of drugs that interfere with the function of histone deacetylases, and is being studied as a treatment for cancer and neurodegenerative diseases. Finding that thymoquinone functions as an HDAC inhibitor, she says, "was very remarkable and really exciting."

Pancreatic cancer, the fourth-leading cause of cancer death in this country, takes some 34,000 lives a year. The disease frequently is detected after it has spread and only 4 percent of individuals with pancreatic cancer live for five years after diagnosis.

Nigella sativa seeds was effective in reducing the ulcer index

An animal study suggested that the aqueous extract of Nigella sativa seeds was effective in reducing the ulcer index (induced by aspirin) by about 36%. Moreover, the treatment reduced the peptic activity and acid production. Another study found that the administration of black seed oil for 2 weeks increased gastric mucin and glutathione content, and reduced histamine content. This is in line with earlier studies that have suggested a cytoprotective action of black seed oil, and lends some credence to the folkloric use of the oil as an antiulcer agent. A different study discovered a single oral dose of black seed could partly reduce the ulcer index and promote healing of gastric lesions induced by acute intake of alcohol. Additionally, black seed significantly decreased the gastric MDA content while it increased the gastric level of glutathione compared to alcohol. The gastric activities of both antioxidant enzymes superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione-S-transferase (GST) were markedly elevated following administration of black seed. Likewise, thymoquinone protected against the ulcerating effect of alcohol and mitigated most of the biochemical adverse effects induced by alcohol in gastric mucosa, but to a lesser extent than whole black seed. Researchers also hypothesized that thymoquinone's antihistaminic effect could play a role in preventing gastric injury as an antihistaminic effect has been shown to be an important preventive mechanism against gastric injury. Given its safety profile, don't be surprised if thymoquinone will be a choice of treatment for gastric ulcers in the near future.

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Akhtar AH, Ahmad KD, Gilani SN, et al. Antiulcer effects of aqueous extracts of Nigella sativa and Pongamia pinnata in rats. Fitoterapia 1996; 38: 195–199.
El-Abhar HS, Abdallah DM, Saleh S. Gastroprotective activity of Nigella sativa oil and its constituent, thymoquinone, against gastric mucosal injury induced by ischaemia/reperfusion in rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 2003 Feb;84(2-3):251-8. El-Dakhakhny M, Barakat M, El-Halim MA, et al. Effects of Nigella sativa oil on gastric secretion and ethanol induced ulcer in rats. J Ethnopharmacol. 2000 Sep;72(1-2):299-304.
El-Kadi A, Kandil O, Tabuni AM. Nigella sativa cell-mediated immunity. Arch AIDS Res. 1987; 1: 232–233.
Kahraman A, Erkasap N, Köken T, et al. The antioxidative and antihistaminic properties of quercetin in ethanol-induced gastric lesions. Toxicology. 2003 Feb 1;183(1-3):133-42.
Kanter M, Coskun O, Uysal H. The antioxidative and antihistaminic effect of Nigella sativa and its major constituent, thymoquinone on ethanol-induced gastric mucosal damage. Arch Toxicol. 2006 Apr;80(4):217-24.
Kanter M, Demir H, Karakaya C, et al. Gastroprotective activity of Nigella sativa L oil and its constituent,thymoquinone against acute alcohol-induced gastric mucosal injury in rats. World J Gastroenterol. 2005 Nov 14;11(42):6662-6.

Black seed is effective against Gram-positive than Gram-negative organisms

A number of reports have been published on the actions of black seed extracts or its oil on different strains of bacteria. The extract and the oil have been reported to have a broad spectrum of activity against a number of microbes. For example, in vitro antibacterial effects of the essential oil showed pronounced activity even in minute dilutions against several organisms that included Staphylococcus albus, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Shigella niger and Vibrio cholera. Generally speaking the oil was more effective against Gram-positive than Gram-negative organisms. The oil was also found to have excellent antifungal activity, particularly against Aspergillus species. Another study confirmed the effectiveness of Nigella sativa against Gram-positive (Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus subtilis) and Gram-negative bacteria (Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa). The antibacterial effect was maximal when Bacillus subtilis was used. It has been shown that both the crude alkaloid extract and the water extract of the seeds were effective against a variety of organisms (isolated from human patients suffering from septic arthritis), even those that were resistant to antibiotics. Finally, black seed oil, given intraperitoneally, has been shown to exhibit a potent action against murine cytomegalovirus infection in mice. The action was suggested to be related to the potentiating action of the oil on innate immunity. Scientific data has suggested the potential of Nigella sativa as a natural source for the production of new antifungal drugs.

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Agarwal R, Kharya MD, Shrivastava R. Antimicrobial & anthelmintic activities of the essential oil of Nigella sativa Linn. Indian J Exp Biol. 1979 Nov;17(11):1264-5.
Aljabre SH, Randhawa MA, Akhtar N, et al. Antidermatophyte activity of ether extract of Nigella sativa and its active principle, thymoquinone. J Ethnopharmacol. 2005 Oct 3;101(1-3):116-9.
El-Kamali HH, Ahmed AH, Mohammed AS, et al. Antibacterial properties of essential oils from Nigella sativa seeds, Cymbopogon citatus leaves and Pulicaria undulata aerial parts. Fitoterapia 1998; 34:77–78.
Morsi NM. Antimicrobial effect of crude extracts of Nigella sativa on multiple antibiotics-resistant bacteria. Acta Microbiol Pol. 2000;49(1):63-74.
Salem ML, Hossain MS. Protective effect of black seed oil from Nigella sativa against murine cytomegalovirus infection. Int J Immunopharmacol. 2000 Sep;22(9):729-40.
Toppozada HH, Mazloum HA, el-Dakhakhny M. The antibacterial properties of the Nigella sativa l. seeds. Active principle with some clinical applications. J Egypt Med Assoc. 1965;48:Suppl:187-202.

Black Seed Helps in Combating Bronchitis

Today, Science has proven Black Seed Oil 's effectiveness as an immune system booster.

Black seed as a daily health supplement

Most medicines work best when given a chance to run their full course, and this too, is the case with black seed. In cognizance of its substantial nutritional components, as well as its specific medicinal properties, the body's ability to maintain health and promote healing of a lasting nature is best increased through regular use of black seed.

Black seed as an energy source

Ibn Sina (980-1037), in describing the black seed as that which "stimulates the body's energy and helps recovery from fatigue or disspiritedness," still holds true for Tibb (Islamic Medicine) health practitioners today. The rich nutritional value contained in black seed as outlined by scientific analysis of black seed, also points to it as a great source of energy.

From the Tibb health perspective, the black seed has an ability to maintain and restore body heat. Our Western diet, predominantly made up of cold foods -- ice in our drinks, yogurt, pizza, cheese -- all deplete the innate heat our body requires in order to optimally function. Tibb holds the view that a reduced metabolic rate (innate heat) is the cause of most illnesses. The body, in losing energy, also loses its ability to fight off toxins, resulting in a greater chance of contracting illness.

Black seed and other medication

Black seed may be used in conjunction with conventional or other forms of natural medicine. It is not recommended that black seed be used exclusively in the treatment of serious medical complaints which may require more immediate action. For example, conditions like bronchitis sometimes require conventional antibiotics to prevent the condition from becoming more severe. However, black seed may be used as a therapeutic aid together with this and other forms of treatment to help counteract any side effects experienced from the use of antibiotics or other potent, chemically based medicines.

Pregnancy and lactation

The black seed is not recommended during pregnancy, however during lactation. It is an excellent form of added nutrition for both mother and the growing child while its immune system boosting properties serve as a natural, safe way to build resistance against illness. In addition, as studies have shown, black seed helps increase milk production during breastfeeding.

Initial trials have shown that black seed may have an ability to increase the male sperm count.

Babies and toddlers

In addition to its many nutritional components, black seed contains carotene, which is essential for infant growth. During the toddler years, black seed provides children with all the energy they require for this active stage of life. Regular usage of black seed, which increases its immune system strengthening effect on the body, will decrease the length and severity of natural childhood illnesses, particularly during winter when children are most susceptible to contracting colds and flu.

Black seed for the elderly person

Which its rich nutritional, energy-giving value, in combination with immune system strengthening properties, black seed is an ideal health supplement for the elderly person.

HOW DOES BLACK SEED BENEFIT?

The majority of our health problems have the same causes- infection by micro-organisms such as bacteria, viruses, parasites and fungi. When using clinical (allopathic medicines) each symptom is treated individually and usually with synthetic chemically manufactured medicines that contain alcohol and other harmful ingredients.

Black seed is effective at treating the body as a whole and fights the actual cause of the symptoms.

Black seed regulates too weak or too strong reactions of the immune system, is excellent for treating chronic, allergic and hormonal diseases, black seed support metabolism, improve digestion, helps to lowers blood sugar levels. It is used to dispel worms and parasites from intestinal track. It is useful in soothing bronchitis and coughs, increase body tone, stimulates menstrual periods, increases the flow of breast milk, provides quick energy, increases sperm count, calms the nervous system, encourages hair growth and retards hair fall out, and prevents skin wrinkling.

Black seed can be used as an antihypertensive agent

It has been suggested that black seed oil could be effectively used to treat hypertension. This lends credibility to the folkloric use of the oil as an antihypertensive agent. The methanol soluble portion of the oil showed inhibitory effects on arachidonic acid induced platelet aggregation and blood coagulation. What's more, several compounds displayed anticoagulation effects more potent than aspirin, which is a common therapeutic agent for thrombosis. A French study found that the dichloromethane extract of black seed shows strong diuretic and antihypertensive actions. In fact, the authors suggested that the diuretic action of black seed might be, at least partially, responsible for its antihypertensive action related to its volatile oils.

Another study reported that the oral treatment of rats with black seed oil decreased serum cholesterol, triglyceride and glucose levels, and leucocyte and platelet counts by about 15–35%, compared to control values. These results indicate a possible beneficial effect of the oil in hyperglycaemia and hyperlipidema, and probably as an adjunct to the treatment of certain types of anaemia. Several extracts of Nigella sativa significantly reduced plasma triglycerides while increasing HDL-cholesterol. Besides, one study reported that the volatile oil of Nigella sativa was as efficient as the cholesterol-reducing drug simvastatin. As a matter of fact, a study involving nine students found that two capsules of 500 mg of black seed oil twice daily for two weeks was able to reduce blood levels of both glucose and cholesterol.

Moreover, scientific evidence also indicates that black seed oil and thymoquinone are effective in reducing homocysteine levels. Evidence using animal models suggests that homocysteine causes direct oxidant injury to the vasculature, impairs the vasodilator and anticoagulation function of nitrous oxide, stimulates smooth muscle proliferation, interferes with clotting factors and increases oxidative stress. Black seed oil may offer an alternative for homcysteine reduction to those people that do not respond to folic acid, vitamins B12 and or B6.

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Bamosa AO, Ali BA, Sowayan SA. Effect of oral ingestion of Nigella sativa seeds on some blood parameters. Saudi Pharm J. 1997;5:126–129.
el Tahir KE, Ashour MM, al-Harbi MM. The cardiovascular actions of the volatile oil of the black seed (Nigella sativa)in rats: elucidation of the mechanism of action. Gen Pharmacol. 1993 Sep;24(5):1123-31.
Enomoto S, Asano R, Iwahori Y, et al. Hematological studies on black cumin oil from the seeds of Nigella sativa L. Biol Pharm Bull. 2001 Mar;24(3):307-10.
Labhal A, Settaf A, Bennani N, et al. Action anti-obésité et hypocholestérolémiante de Nigella sativa chez le rat des sables. 1997 Caducée 27:26–28.
Le PM, Benhaddou-Andaloussi A, Elimadi A, et al. The petroleum ether extract of Nigella sativa exerts lipid-lowering and insulin-sensitizing actions in the rat. J Ethnopharmacol. 2004 Oct;94(2-3):251-9.
Settaf A, Berrada Y, Haddad PS, et al. Volatile oil of Nigella sativa lowers plasma lipids and insulin in obese hyperlipidemic sand rats (Psammomys obesus). 2000 6th International Congress on Ethnopharmacology:P2A/36.
Stamler JS, Slivka A. Biological chemistry of thiols in the vasculature and in vascular-related disease. Nutr Rev. 1996 Jan;54(1 Pt 1):1-30.
Tsai JC, Perrella MA, Yoshizumi M, et al. Promotion of vascular smooth muscle cell growth by homocysteine: a link to atherosclerosis. Proc Natl Acad Sci U S A. 1994 Jul 5;91(14):6369-73.
van Guldener C, Stehouwer CD. Hyperhomocysteinemia, vascular pathology, and endothelial dysfunction. Semin Thromb Hemost. 2000;26(3):281-9.
Zaoui A, Cherrah Y, Mahassini N, et al. Acute and chronic toxicity of Nigella sativa fixed oil. Phytomedicine. 2002 Jan;9(1):69-74.
Zaoui A, Cherrah Y, Lacaille-Dubois MA, et al. [Diuretic and hypotensive effects of Nigella sativa in the spontaneously hypertensive rat] [Article in French] Therapie. 2000 May-Jun;55(3):379-82.

Black Seed could play an important role in the treatment of cancer, AIDS, and other immune deficiency states.

Effects on the Immune System

Several studies point to the effect of black seed and thymoquinone on the immune system by modulating the levels of pro- and anti-inflammatory mediators. Thymoquinone has also been shown to inhibit inflammation and oxidative stress in cells. The seeds have been shown to produce an increase in the ratio of helper to suppressor T cells and enhance natural killer cell activity in healthy volunteers. Because thymoquinone has dual anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities, it may be an instrument which not only prevents the direct harmful effects of oxidants, but it may essentially alter the underlying inflammatory processes that play an important role in the pathogenesis of inflammatory bowel disease and colorectal cancer.

In the field of AIDS research, human clinical trials conducted at the Department of Biological and Medical Research Center in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia showed that Black Seed enhanced the ratio between helper T-cell by 55% with a 30% enhancement of NK cell activity. These findings suggest that Black Seed could play an important role in the treatment of cancer, AIDS, and other immune deficiency states.

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Badary OA, Taha RA, Gamal el-Din AM, et al. Thymoquinone is a potent superoxide anion scavenger. Drug Chem Toxicol. 2003 May;26(2):87-98.
El-Kadi A, Kandil O, Tabuni AM, Nigella sativa and cell mediated immunity. Arch AIDS Res. 1989; 1: 232–233.
Gali-Muhtasib H, Roessner A, Schneider-Stock R. Thymoquinone: a promising anti-cancer drug from natural sources. Int J Biochem Cell Biol. 2006;38(8):1249-53.
Hajhashemi V, Ghannadi A, Jafarabadi H. Black cumin seed essential oil, as a potent analgesic and antiinflammatory drug. Phytother Res. 2004 Mar;18(3):195-9.
Haq A, Lobo PI, Al-Tufail M, et al. Immunomodulatory effect of Nigella sativa proteins fractionated by ion exchange chromatography. Int J Immunopharmacol. 1999 Apr;21(4):283-95.
Haq A, Abdullatif M, Lobo PI, et al. Nigella sativa: effect on human lymphocytes and polymorphonuclear leukocyte phagocytic activity. Immunopharmacology. 1995 Aug;30(2):147-55.
Houghton PJ, Zarka R, de las Heras B, et al. Fixed oil of Nigella sativa and derived thymoquinone inhibit eicosanoid generation in leukocytes and membrane lipid peroxidation. Planta Med. 1995 Feb;61(1):33-6.
Mansour MA, Nagi MN, El-Khatib AS, et al. Effects of thymoquinone on antioxidant enzyme activities, lipid peroxidation and DT-diaphorase in different tissues of mice: a possible mechanism of action. Cell Biochem Funct. 2002 Jun;20(2):143-51.

Liver/Kidney

The lymphatic system of the intestines and bronchi is constantly confronted with numerous food and environmental antigens. In addition to its defensive function, the lymphatic system must ensure tolerance to its own intestinal flora and other substances. Stabilization of the arachidonic acid metabolism via modulation of prostaglandin and leukotriene production, and stabilization of interleukins and tumour necrosis factor (TNF) has been shown to safeguard the body from allergic reactions.

Scientific evidence indicates that black seed oil contains pharmacologically active substances such as thymoquinones, dithymoquinones, thymohydroquinones and thymol that modify leukotriene synthesis and inhibit histamine release. Some of the studies that evaluated the antiallergic potency of black seed oil in animals demonstrated that even small concentrations of its active constituents effectively inhibited the release of histamine from mast cells.

Four human studies showed that black seed oil is indeed capable of relieving symptoms of allergic rhinitis, atopic eczema, and bronchial asthma. The effect of black seed oil on inhalation allergies, the most common type of allergic disease, was determined in two placebo-controlled studies (one in children and one in adults) and in two open-label studies also involving children and adults. Depending on their body weight, the patients took three to seven 500 mg of black seed oil capsules each day. Improvement of allergy symptoms was observed in all four studies. The complaints of patients with allergic rhinitis decreased significantly. This was especially evident in the studies involving children, where approximately 80% of the children had improvement of allergic rhinitis symptoms. The children with bronchial asthma treated in the open-label studies study also had relevant and significant improvement of clinical symptoms. Nigella sativa oil also proved to be very effective in adult subjects with allergic rhinitis.

A possible explanation for the positive clinical effects observed in the human studies can be drawn from animal experiments. One study for example, showed that Nigella sativa oil inhibited the cyclooxygenase and 5- lipoxygenase pathways of arachidonic acid metabolism, resulting in the decreased synthesis of thromboxane and leukotrienes. Leukotrienes, in particular, are contributing factors for the development of bronchial asthma since they develop proinflammatory activity. Leukotriene receptor antagonists are therefore used for treatment of bronchial asthma. Researchers have not only found that this effect is induced by thymoquinone, but other compounds of black seed oil as well.

In Arabian folk medicine, black seed alone or in combination with honey is used as a treatment for bronchial asthma. In a recent study involving twenty-nine asthmatic adults, black seed given for three months, significantly improved all asthma symptoms including chest wheezing and pulmonary functions tests. Furthermore, the usage of inhalers and other asthma medications decreased in the patients receiving black seed. The researchers believed the results of the study confirmed previous studies indicating a relaxant effect of black seed on airway smooth muscle. They also noted the antitussive effect of black seed oil.

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Boskabady MH, Javan H, Sajady M, et al. The possible prophylactic effect of Nigella sativa seed extract in asthmatic patients. Fundam Clin Pharmacol. 2007 Oct;21(5):559-66.
Boskabady MH, Kiani S, Jandaghi P, et al. Antitussive of Nigella sativa. Pak J Med Sci. 2004; 20: 224-228.
Boskabady MH, Shahabi M. Bronchodilatory and anticholinergic effects of Nigella sativa on isolated guinea-pig tracheal chains. Iran J Med Sci. 1997; 22: 127-133.
Chakravarty N. Inhibition of histamine release from mast cells by nigellone. Ann Allergy. 1993 Mar;70(3):237-42.
Ghosheh OA, Houdi AA, Crooks PA. High performance liquid chromatographic analysis of the pharmacologically active quinones and related compounds in the oil of the black seed (Nigella sativa L.). J Pharm Biomed Anal. 1999 Apr;19(5):757-62.
Houghton PJ, Zarka R, de las Heras B, et al. Fixed oil of Nigella sativa and derived thymoquinone inhibit eicosanoid generation in leukocytes and membrane lipid peroxidation. Planta Med. 1995 Feb;61(1):33-6.
Jäger L, Kroegel C. [Leukotriene receptor antagonists and bronchial asthma] [Article in German] Arzneimittelforschung. 1998 Mar;48(3):205-11.
Kalus U, Pruss A, Bystron J, et al. Effect of Nigella sativa (black seed) on subjective feeling in patients with allergic diseases. Phytother Res. 2003 Dec;17(10):1209-14.
Landrigan PJ, Carlson JE, Bearer CF, et al. Children's health and the environment: a new agenda for prevention research. Environ Health Perspect. 1998 Jun;106 Suppl 3:787-94.

Black seed oil has been shown to possess antiparasitic properties comparable to those of some of the leading pharmaceuticals

Black seed oil has been shown to possess antiparasitic properties comparable to those of some of the leading pharmaceuticals. In one study, black seed oil was effective in reducing the number of Schistosoma mansoni worms in the liver and decreased the total number of ova deposited in both the liver and the intestine. Furthermore, it increased the number of dead ova in the intestinal wall and markedly reduced the granuloma diameters. Administration of black seed oil concomitantly with the leading flatworm pharmaceutical, lowered further the number of dead ova than was observed when the drug was given alone, indicating that the plant oil potentiates the action of the drug.

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Agarwal R, Kharya MD, Shrivastava R. Antimicrobial & anthelmintic activities of the essential oil of Nigella sativa Linn. Indian J Exp Biol. 1979 Nov;17(11):1264-5.
Mahmoud MR, El-Abhar HS, Saleh S. The effect of Nigella sativa oil against the liver damage induced by Schistosoma mansoni infection in mice. J Ethnopharmacol. 2002 Jan;79(1):1-11.

A recent study found black seed oil has anticonvulsant effects and improved seizure control in children suffering from refractory epilepsy

Nearly 15% of childhood epilepsy cases are resistant to treatment. Many of the drugs used to treat epilepsy produce unwanted side effects or are capable of producing serious adverse events. When epilepsy remains uncontrolled, it is termed refractory or pharmacoresistant. A recent study found black seed oil has anticonvulsant effects and improved seizure control in children suffering from refractory epilepsy. Earlier animal studies have also demonstrated the anticonvulsant effects of thymoquinone. Researchers hypothesized that thymoquinone may have anticonvulsant activity in petit mal epilepsy probably through an opioid receptor-mediated increase in GABAergic tone. They have also suggested black seed's potent antioxidant properties may be responsible for preventing seizures as well.

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Akhondian J, Parsa A, Rakhshande H. The effect of Nigella sativa L. (black cumin seed) on intractable pediatric seizures. Med Sci Monit. 2007 Dec;13(12):CR555-9.
Hosseinzadeh H, Parvardeh S, Nassiri-Asl M, et al. Intracerebroventricular administration of thymoquinone, the major constituent of Nigella sativa seeds, suppresses epileptic seizures in rats. Med Sci Monit. 2005 Apr;11(4):BR106-10.
Hosseinzadeh H, Parvardeh S. Anticonvulsant effects of thymoquinone, the major constituent of Nigella sativa seeds, in mice. Phytomedicine. 2004 Jan;11(1):56-64.
Ilhan A, Gurel A, Armutcu F, et al. Antiepileptogenic and antioxidant effects of Nigella sativa oil against pentylenetetrazol-induced kindling in mice. Neuropharmacology. 2005 Sep;49(4):456-64.
Verhelst H, Boon P, Buyse G, et al. Steroids in intractable childhood epilepsy: clinical experience and review of the literature. Seizure. 2005 Sep;14(6):412-21.