- Region
- Asia
- Origin
- Asia (west), Europe (southeast), Africa (north)
- Sanskrit
- Upakunchika
Asia · Herb · № 363
Nigella sativa
Herb · Asia
Black seed
Nigella sativa
Traditionally attributed effects: aromatic, diuretic and sudorific, promotes bile, stomachic, stimulating, carminative, expels worms, promotes menstruation and milk flow, antibacterial.
Safety notes
Not in pregnancy, with bleeding disorders, diabetes or low blood pressure. Serious illnesses such as infections, cancer or hepatitis need a doctor: there is no evidence that this remedy cures them. Traditional use is no proof of effectiveness; if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition, consult a doctor or pharmacist.
Cautions by tradition (1)
- Herbs for viral infections: Not in pregnancy, with bleeding disorders, diabetes or low blood pressure. Serious illnesses such as infections, cancer or hepatitis need a doctor: there is no evidence that this remedy cures them.
Preparation
Seeds 1–3 g; tincture; decoction; roasted seeds; oil externally.
Use in traditions
Described in the Ayurvedic materia medica and herbal applications for viral infections. Sanskrit name: Upakunchika. Islamic tradition says of black cumin (kalonji) that it is 'a cure for every disease except death'. Seeds have been found in the tomb of Tutankhamun. They are sprinkled on naan bread. Small studies have examined effects on blood pressure and blood sugar.
Applications
Use by tradition
How different herbal traditions describe this herb. Amounts are traditional guidelines checked for obvious errors; they are not medical advice. For poisonous plants no dosage is given on purpose.
Ayurvedic materia medica
Attributed effects
Aromatic, diuretic and sudorific, promotes bile, stomachic, stimulating, carminative, expels worms, promotes menstruation and milk flow, antibacterial; for indigestion, lack of appetite, fever, diarrhoea, oedema, puerperal fever, absent or painful menstruation, vomiting; oil for skin rash.
Preparation and amount
Seeds 1–3 g; tincture; decoction; roasted seeds; oil externally.
Herbs for viral infections
Attributed effects
Strengthens immunity (thymoquinone, thymol, carvacrol); especially known for HIV; also pain-relieving, for headache, constipation and side effects of chemotherapy.
Preparation and amount
Mix oil with juice or yoghurt; 3 teaspoons a day.
Caution: Not in pregnancy, with bleeding disorders, diabetes or low blood pressure. Serious illnesses such as infections, cancer or hepatitis need a doctor: there is no evidence that this remedy cures them.