Abstract
Black cumin seeds, or Nigella sativa, are incredibly rich in natural compounds with a variety of therapeutic
applications. In vitro, including natural antioxidants, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, anticancer, and wound-healing
capabilities in several human body sites, as well as antibacterial and antifungal action. In addition to being well-known
for its culinary applications, Nigella sativa is a popular therapeutic herb that has long been valued in traditional
medicine. It is highly well-liked in many traditional systems, including Siddha, Ayurveda, and Unani. Oil and seeds
have long been used in folklore in a variety of food and medical systems. Numerous conditions, including skin
disorders, jaundice, gastrointestinal issues, anorexia, conjunctivitis, dyspepsia, rheumatism, diabetes, hypertension,
intrinsic hemorrhage, paralysis, amenorrhea, and asthma, have been shown to be significantly improved by nigella
sativa. A dicotyledonous plant belonging to the Ranunculaceae family, black cumin has long been used as a medicinal
herb. Its rich historical background and traditional history draw attention. The plant's active components come from
nigella seeds and the oils extracted from them. Eastern Mediterranean nations as well as Eastern and Southern Europe
are the birthplaces of black cumin. Other 134 countries started to import black cumin. It has also extended to Turkey,
India, and North Africa.
Since ancient times, plants have been a key source of medicine in all societies. "This black cumin is healing for all
diseases except death," said the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). [16] Many native herbs are employed in the traditional
system to diagnose, prevent, and treat physical, mental, and social imbalances (Manjunath, 1990). The foundation of
traditional medicine is made up of medicinal plants, which are crucial to both individual and community health
(Farnsworth, 1994). These plants' therapeutic efficacy is derived from a few chemical compounds that have specific
physiological effects on humans (Edeoga et al., 2005). [1] The medications are made from the entire plant or from
various parts of it, such as the leaves, stem, bark, roots, flowers, seeds, etc. Certain medications are made from plant
products that are excreted, like gum, resins, and latex. According to estimates from the World Health Organization,
80% of people benefit from using herbal treatments. As a result, it is essential to assess the rich history of traditional
medicine. Nevertheless, several studies on medicinal plants still need to be conducted because very few plant species
have had their therapeutic qualities, mechanisms of action, safety, and toxicity extensively examined. [2] . Long known
as a cultivated plant, black cumin is frequently used in bread, muffins, and several cheese variations, particularly in the
Middle East. Ancient Egyptians also utilized black cumin for medicinal purposes. The Pharaohs' private physicians
were said to have kept a bowl of black cumin on hand at all times and employed it as a remedy for inflammations,
headaches, colds, and toothaches in addition to helping with digestion following binge eating. In ancient writings,
Hippocrates and Dioscorides referred to the black cumin as "Melanthion" (Alt?nterim, 2010) [5].
Worldwide, N. sativa is regarded as a significant therapeutic herb. Its application in the food, pharmaceutical, and
ornamental industries have significant economic significance. Different body parts are affected differently by the
pharmacological actions of N. sativa and its components. According to reports now available, the plant has anti-
inflammatory, anti-microbial, anti-cancer, anti-oxidant, anti-diabetic, and anti-hypertensive properties. Numerous
studies have also shown its effects on the immune system, the digestive system, and the central nervous system. [2] It is
possible to draw the conclusion from our research that Nigella sativa seeds contain a variety of bioactive substances.
Traditional healers use the seeds to treat a variety of illnesses because of their bioactive ingredients .