Black cumin (black seed), or commonly known by the people of Indonesia as Habbatussauda, has long been widely used as herbal medicine. Research shows this plant has health benefits and is able to overcome various diseases.
Grains which in Latin are called Nigella sativa This is usually processed to be used as a cooking spice or the extract is taken. Since ancient times, Black Seed has been used to treat various diseases and is believed to have good health benefits.
Black cumin contains a variety of nutrients that are good for health, such as carbohydrates, protein, healthy fats including oleic acid and linoleic acid, calcium, fiber, iron, sodium, potassium, and antioxidants.
Benefits of Black Cumin
Various studies have been conducted to prove the medicinal benefits of Black Seed. Among them to help treat diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, and cancer.
In addition, black cumin also has antibacterial, diuretic, anti-inflammatory, analgesic effects, strengthens immunity, and is good for kidney, stomach, and liver health. These benefits come from thymoquinone (TQ) contained in Black Seed.
With these many benefits, black cumin gives the impression as a herbal medicine that can treat various diseases. However, how are these benefits from a medical perspective?
- Treating high blood pressure (hypertension)In small-scale studies, Black Seed appears to reduce high blood pressure. In this study, there was a decrease in blood pressure in the subjects studied, after consuming Black Seed extract for eight weeks. However, the clinical effectiveness and safety of this herbal medicine is unknown.
- Treating high cholesterol
Cholesterol is needed by the body. But if excessive, can increase the risk of various diseases, such as stroke and heart disease. Several studies show that black cumin can reduce levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, as well as increase levels of good cholesterol.
- Maintain blood sugar levels
In one study, consumption of black cumin for several weeks was seen to reduce blood sugar levels and insulin resistance. The effect of Black Seed is thought to be good for diabetes, but the clinical data obtained so far have not been able to confirm this.
- Has anti-inflammatory effect
One of the effects of Black Seed which is believed to be good for health is its ability to reduce inflammation. Small-scale clinical research for 3 months in asthmatics shows that Black Seed can reduce the severity and frequency of asthma attacks.
Other studies have also shown that this herbal remedy can help treat other inflammatory diseases, such as sinusitis, allergies, and arthritis.
- Fight infection
Black Seed has antibacterial and antiviral properties. This is evidenced from a study which showed that this herbal medicine was able to eradicate the viruses that cause hepatitis C, HIV, and flu. Black Seed is also seen to inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi, so it is considered capable of fighting infection.
- Protect the heart
Several animal studies have also shown that black cumin can prevent liver damage. This benefit is related to the antioxidant content in black cumin which has an anti-inflammatory function.
- Prevent cancerThymoquinone is an active compound contained in black cumin seeds. These compounds are said to have anticancer effects. In several animal studies, thymoquinone can reduce the size of malignant tumors. In addition, laboratory tests show that thymoquinone can effectively inhibit the growth of cancer cells.
In addition to some of the benefits above, black cumin is also considered to be used as a breastfeeding food. Black cumin is also quite often found in supplement form booster breast milk together with fenugreek and alfalfa.
Unfortunately, various research studies related to the benefits of black cumin to treat diseases so far are still limited to small-scale studies. This means that more clinical studies in humans are still needed to prove the efficacy of black cumin as a drug.
Black Cumin Side Effects to Watch Out for
Black cumin oil and black cumin extract may be safe for consumption when used in the short term. At this time there is not enough information about the side effects of black cumin when used in large doses or long term. The benefits and side effects on children and pregnant women are also uncertain.
Some people may experience allergies when black cumin or Black Seed is applied to the skin. In addition, black cumin may slow blood clotting, increase the risk of bleeding, lower blood pressure, and lower blood sugar for people who do not have health problems.
Therefore, before consuming black cumin, it is better to consult a doctor first, especially if you have certain medical conditions.