BLACK SEED

Ibn Sina noted that black seed is beneficial for treating breathing difficulties, whether caused by asthma symptoms or other respiratory issues. In traditional medicine, black seed oil (Habbatussauda) has been widely used as a stimulant for breast milk production and as a deworming agent. It has also served as a diuretic and muscle relaxant, helping to alleviate twitches and cramps.

Additionally, black seed has been used to treat:

  • Headaches and toothaches
  • Colds and nasal congestion
  • Conjunctivitis (red eye)
  • Hemorrhoids
  • Abscesses (pus-filled sores)
  • Rheumatism
  • Allergic reactions
  • Digestive problems, including diarrhea, dysentery, constipation, colic, and bloating

When applied to the skin, black seed oil has been reported to relieve allergic skin reactions caused by contact dermatitis.

Scientific Benefits of Black Seed

According to research published in the Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research, black seed contains compounds that function as anti-inflammatory agents, antioxidants, and immune activators.

Antioxidants are plant-based compounds that help protect the body from cellular damage and disease. Alongside boosting immunity, the antioxidants in black seed may help prevent a variety of illnesses, such as obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

Black seed is also rich in vitamins A, C, E, and several B vitamins, which contribute to enhancing your body’s immune defenses.

Managing Type 1 Diabetes Symptoms

The primary active compound in black seed oil is Thymoquinone (TQ).
Research published in the Asian Pacific Journal of Tropical Medicine suggests that TQ could serve as an effective therapeutic agent for managing diabetes.

Another study from Zagazig University in Egypt found that a combination of black seed extract and traditional Middle Eastern herbs significantly reduced blood sugar levels. The herbal blend included:

  • Myrrh
  • Gum olibanum (frankincense)
  • Gum asafoetida

This effect is thought to occur due to the inhibition of glucose metabolism, further supporting black seed’s potential as a natural remedy for diabetes.