7 Amazing Benefits of Black Cumin
7 Amazing Benefits of Black Cumin
7 Amazing Benefits of Black Cumin
Cumin
February 26, 2016 | Leave a comment | 1
Youre no doubt familiar with sesame seeds and poppy seeds, but have you
heard of black cumin seeds? Also called Nigella sativa, these seeds have been
revered for their medicinal properties for thousands of years and were actually
mentioned in the Bible, along with numerous other ancient texts.
Black cumin seeds have traditionally been grown and used throughout Egypt, and
in fact, were found in the tomb of Tutankhamun. Though their use has been
documented throughout ancient history, they were not carefully studied until about
forty years ago. Since this time, hundreds of studies have been conducted on
these powerful seeds.
The research has uncovered some astounding findings: black cumin seeds are
made of a very complex chemical structure containing over one hundred chemical
constituents, including abundant sources of essential fatty acids. These
chemicals are believed to be the reason black cumin has so many amazing
health benefits.
Here are just 7 of those amazing health benefits:
Cardiovascular Health
A 2013 study published in Lipids in Health and Disease found that black cumin
extract improved the good cholesterol (HDL) in rats. A subsequent study
published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine that
same year suggests black cumin seed also protect against high blood pressure, a
risk factor for heart disease.
And a third study published in a 2013 issue found black cumin has the potential to
protect the heart muscles against myocardial incidents.
Cancer-Fighting Benefits
Black cumin contains a specific antioxidant called Thymoquinone. This powerful
chemical can actually prevent genetic mutations and cell damage that could
otherwise potentially develop into malignant cancers.
A study published in PLoS One found that thymoquinone had the ability to kill
brain cancer cells while leaving the healthy brains cells untouched. Animal
studies have shown thymoquinone is also able to fight breast cancer cell growth.
An animal study, from the October 2013 issue of PLoS One, found that
thymoquinone is also able to fight breast cancer cell growth.
Cognitive Benefits
A 2013 study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology found black cumin
may also be beneficial for our cognitive health. Daily dosing with the seeds or oil
improves memory and helps a person to focus. An animal study published in the
June 2013 issue of Pathologie-Biologie found that black cumin also assist nerve
healing after an injury, leading to less nerve cell death. Although more research is
needed, early studies indicate black cumin might play a role in nerve
regeneration.
Fights Hepatitis C
A study published in the April 2013 issue of the World Journal of
Gastroenterology found that the oil from black cumin seeds helps fight hepatitis
C infections. The study found that patients with hep C, who took black cumin
daily, saw a decrease in the amount of virus in their system. Patients also saw a
decrease in their symptoms.
An animal study published in the European Review for Medical and
Pharmacological Sciences, suggests that black cumin seed oil also has the
ability to prevent liver and kidney damage caused by bybromobenzene, a
contaminant sometimes found in food.
Fights Asthma
Multiple studies, including this one published in the journal Phytomedicine, have
found black cumin to possess anti-asthmatic effects. One study even found black
cumin to be superior to conventional drug treatments.
Sore throat
Research has shown that black cumin seeds are highly effective at relieving sore
throats due to inflammation from acute tonsillopharyngitis.
To make sure the quality of the oil is pure and potent, purchase organic oil that
has been pure pressed without chemical extraction and that contains no additives
or diluting oils.
Black Cumin and Honey
This is an ancient recipe and remedy for just about everything. Simply mix equal
parts roasted black cumin seeds with equal parts raw honey. So, a cup of seeds
with a cup of raw organic honey. You can take a spoonful before bed and a
spoonful upon rising. A truly delicious and healthy way to start and end your days.
Black Cumin Tea
Make a tea by simply pouring boiling water over a pinch of roasted seeds (or a
few drops of the oil). Let it steep for 5-10 minutes and enjoy. You can also add a
few drops or seeds to your favorite hot coffee or tea beverage.
Add to Baked Goods
The seeds can easily be added to breads and pastries, cakes and pies. Use your
imagination!
Healthy Salad Dressings
Why not make your salad even healthier by adding some seeds to your favorite
dressing? A particularly delicious dressing is made with lemon, cilantro, garlic,
tahini, and black cumin seeds. Enjoy!
Fill Some Capsules
Of course you can take an ol fashioned approach and fill some capsules with
your ground seeds and take with water.
Please tell us of the benefits you experience after taking black cumin. If youve
experienced benefits in the past, please share with us below.