Nigella sativa L. is a buttercup plant and has nothing to do with cumin or caraway. Nevertheless, it is often used as a spice, for example in bread. Not least because black cumin seeds are said to have a positive effect on digestion.
In ancient Egypt, black cumin was said to have been used as a medicinal remedy known as the "gold of the pharaohs", and historians have found documented notes of this on papyrus scrolls.
Black cumin would also grow in our regions if you scattered it in the garden. However, the main growing areas today are in West Asia and the western Mediterranean.
The seeds that grow in capsules are mainly used. The dried seeds can be used as a spice. However, since the seeds have a high fatty acid content, they are often pressed and used as oil.
Usage
However, since the seeds have a high fatty acid content, they are often pressed into oil. Areas of use In folk medicine, black cumin seeds are said to have a positive effect on the gastrointestinal tract and digestion. It is said to be particularly effective against flatulence.
Due to the fatty acid composition, the oil is said to have an anti-inflammatory effect (if consumed in moderation).
Some studies speak of an immune-modulating effect, cell protection, and a positive effect in cancer therapy. Black cumin oil is also said to have an antibacterial effect against some types of bacteria and selectively inhibit hepatitis C viruses.
If you are interested, you can download a summary of numerous studies from the website of the University Hospital of Freiburg (in German).
Black cumin is also said to have a positive effect on lung problems such as asthma or diabetes.
According to a recent double-blind study, people with sleep problems can also benefit from black cumin oil. The active ingredients in the oil are said to make you sleep faster and longer and have better sleep quality.
Did you know?
Many dog owners swear that black cumin can be used internally or externally to ward off ticks. In small quantities (!!), black cumin oil can also be fed to dogs or horses.
However, it is not suitable for cats due to the essential oils, which cannot be metabolized, and is even harmful in the long term..
Disclaimer
For legal reasons, we would like to point out that some of the above statements require further research and studies in order to scientifically prove them. Therefore, not all statements can currently be recognized by conventional medicine.
Sources:
- https://www.uniklinik-freiburg.de/fileadmin/mediapool/08_institute/rechtsmedizin/pdf/Addenda/Schwarzk%C3%BCmmel.pdf, 28.08.2024 besucht
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/nutrition/articles/10.3389/fnut.2023.1200118/full, 28.08.2024 besucht
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"Das große Buch der Heilpflanzen", Apotheker M. Pahlow, 7. Auflage, S. 286- 287