Scientific Name : Nigella Arvensis L.

Common Name : Love-In-A-Mist

Arabic Name : الحبة السوداء – حبة البركة

Plant Family : Ranunculaceae 

This plant has many other names such as: Black cumin, Black caraway, Black sesame, Onion seed, and Roman coriander. We call it “The pharmacy plant” due to the endless health benefits scientific researchers are confirming. This herb is one of the most widely desired in Palestine, yet it is very rare to find the native, baladi strain of nigella due to the cheaper prices of other imported strains. However, there are a number of Palestinian farmers insisting on clinging into this heritage aspect of the holy land by planting the native inherited baladi strain of Qizha. Therefore, it becomes our responsibility to connect with such farmers to share their products with the rest of the world. For farmers and users alike, nothing can replace the Baladi strain in any crop. well over 40 health conditions that may be benefited from the use of the herb, including over 20 distinct pharmacological actions it expresses, such as: Analgesic (Pain-Killing), Anti-Bacterial, Anti-Inflammatory, Anti-Ulcer, Anti-Cholinergic, Anti-Fungal, Ant-Hypertensive, Antioxidant, Antispasmodic, Antiviral, Bronchodilator, Gluconeogenesis Inhibitor (Anti-Diabetic), Hepatoprotective (Liver Protecting), Hypotensive, Insulin Sensitizing, Interferon Inducer, Leukotriene Antagonist, Renoprotective (Kidney Protecting), Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Inhibitor”.

Health benefits of Nigella Sativa

Treats Stomach Issues

If you are struggling with indigestion, bloating, excess flatulence or any other stomach problem, black cumin seed oil can help, due to its function as a carminative. It has also been linked to more efficient digestion and reduced constipation. 

Reduces Inflammation

The monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in black cumin seed oil are directly linked to lubricating the joints, soothing pain, and reducing inflammation throughout the body. Arthritic patients, as well as those suffering from respiratory issues and stomach tissue irritation, can benefit from the moderate use of this beneficial oil.

Prevents Asthma Attacks

Many studies have linked a reduction in asthma attacks with regular use or inhalation of black cumin seed oil. By using nose drops – one of the many forms of this oil – you can lower the severity and frequency of asthma attacks, which can be potentially life-saving.

Prevents Allergies

For people without asthma, the same anti-inflammatory effects can help the immune system respond more accurately to allergens. In other words, regular use of this seed oil can help prevent allergic reactions, such as skin inflammation, hives, rashes, stomach upset, chest tightness, and other common allergic responses.

Skin Care

The fatty acids and antioxidants found in black cumin seed oil are able to benefit skin health in many ways. It moisturizes the skin by providing a shield that locks in hydration, eliminates bacterial infections, prevents environmental stress, stimulates the growth of healthy new cells, and even improves the appearance of wrinkles and blemishes.

Boosts Immune System

Owing to its antibacterial properties, black cumin seed oil has been used to prevent infections like MRSA and autoimmune diseases.  Its unique ability to protect the immune system without increasing the system’s attacks on the body is highly unusual, making it very exciting for people with autoimmune conditions.

Helps Manage Diabetes

Black cumin seeds find a variety of uses in traditional medicine across Asia, Africa, as well as Europe, and have been used to address a wide range of conditions, including diabetes.  Various animal and human studies over the past few years have corroborated this ancient knowledge. A study published in the Indian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology concludes that a 2mg dose of these seeds might be supplementary to oral hypoglycemic agents in cases of type 2 diabetes.  

Lowers Hypertension

The major presence of fatty acids, particularly myristic acid, oleic, linoleic, and palmitic acids, can help balance cholesterol levels in the body and improve circulation. This can lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, heart, and stroke. 

Hair Care

For thousands of years, black cumin seed oil has been used to stimulate hair growth and improve the appearance of dry or unhealthy skin.  It can be massaged into the scalp, mixed in with shampoos, or simply consumed to boost overall antioxidant levels in the body. Topical application is better for preventing dandruff and other skin infections, due to the moisturizing and antibacterial properties of the oil, respectively.

Prevents Obesity

By adding healthy fats to your system, such as linoleic and oleic acids in black cumin seed oil, you are able to stimulate the metabolism, access usable energy more quickly, and reduce fat deposition. This can increase passive fat burning and boost energy levels, helping you be more active and shave off even more pounds!

Anticancer Potential

In a study titled “Anticancer Activities of Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin)” by Md Asaduzzaman Khan et al., it is stated that the black cumin seeds have pharmacologically active compounds such as thymoquinone. These compounds are considered to have strong anti-oxidant, anti-carcinogenic, and anti-mutagenic properties (Journal of Ethnopharmacology 2010). However, further studies are needed as the research found potential anticancer agent properties.