Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Therapeutic & pharmacological potential of nigella sativa linn. in unani system of medicine
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Subtitle: a review
Original source:
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Nasreen Aklaque and Dr. Wajeeha Begum
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Therapeutic & pharmacological potential of nigella sativa linn. in unani system of medicine
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201812-11976
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Nigella sativa Linn., commonly known as kalonji or black seed, has been utilized in various traditional medicinal systems, particularly in Unani medicine, for centuries. Its historical significance is highlighted by references in religious and medical texts, such as the acknowledgment by Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who described it as a remedy for all diseases except death. Recent scientific inquiries have validated many of the purported health benefits of Nigella sativa, revealing its diverse therapeutic potentials, including anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, immunomodulatory, and antioxidant properties.
The Multifaceted Therapeutic Potential of Nigella Sativa
The seeds of Nigella sativa are recognized for their broad spectrum of pharmacological activities. They have been explored for their efficacy in treating various ailments, including respiratory issues such as bronchitis and asthma, digestive disorders, diabetes, and skin problems. An extensive review of scientific literature has identified over 20 distinct therapeutic properties linked to the seeds, showcasing their role in aiding conditions like hypertension, cancer, and inflammation. This extensive range of benefits underscores the significance of Nigella sativa in both traditional and modern medicinal practices.
Scientific Classification and Composition
Nigella sativa is an annual herb belonging to the family Ranunculaceae, characterized by its finely divided leaves and delicate flowers. The seeds contain a wealth of chemical constituents, including essential oils with active compounds such as thymoquinone, which is identified as the primary bioactive agent responsible for many of its therapeutic effects. Other significant components include carvone, limonene, and various fatty acids. This complex composition contributes to its medicinal properties and makes it an important subject of scientific research.
Traditional Uses and Historical Context
Traditionally, Nigella sativa has been employed in the treatment of various conditions related to the respiratory system, digestive tract, and immune function. Historically, it has been noted in significant medical texts for its stimulating effects on energy recovery and its use as a digestive aid and remedy for skin disorders. Influential figures in medicine, such as Avicenna, have documented its benefits, elevating Nigella sativa’s status within the realm of historical herbal treatments, particularly in Middle Eastern and Indian cultures.
Conclusion
The increasing global popularity of herbal medicines is evident, with Nigella sativa emerging as a significant player due to its extensive medicinal properties validated by modern scientific studies. As evidence mounts regarding its health benefits and safety, further exploration into the mechanisms of action is necessary. Ultimately, understanding these mechanisms will facilitate the integration of Nigella sativa into contemporary healthcare paradigms, allowing for its potential as a complementary medicinal herb in mainstream therapeutic practices.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Nigella sativa and its common names?
Nigella sativa, commonly known as kalonji or black seed, is an annual herb from the Ranunculaceae family. It goes by various names in different cultures, including Al-habbah in Arabic and Schwarz kummel in German.
What are the traditional uses of Nigella sativa?
Traditionally, Nigella sativa has been used for respiratory issues, digestive problems, liver and kidney health, and to support the immune system. It is also used for skin disorders, as an analgesic, and to enhance milk production in nursing mothers.
What are the main therapeutic properties of Nigella sativa?
Nigella sativa exhibits a wide range of therapeutic properties, including antidiabetic, anticancer, immunomodulatory, analgesic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant effects, making it beneficial for various health conditions.
What is the historical significance of Nigella sativa?
The historical significance of Nigella sativa is noted in ancient texts, including Avicenna's 'Canon of Medicine.' It has been used since ancient times in traditional medicine and is recognized for its healing properties.
What does the scientific research say about Nigella sativa?
Extensive scientific research has validated the claims about Nigella sativa's healing capabilities. Studies confirm its safety and efficacy in treating multiple ailments, solidifying its reputation as a medicinal herb.
What is the suggested dosage of Nigella sativa seeds?
The recommended dosage of Nigella sativa seeds is between 1-3 grams or 3-5 grams, with variations depending on factors such as the specific preparation and individual health conditions.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Therapeutic and pharmacological potential of Nigella sativa in Unani.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Medicine:
Medicines encompass a wide variety of substances used for treatment and healing. The study of Nigella sativa within the context of traditional and modern medicines underscores its relevance as a therapeutic agent within various medical systems.
2) Activity:
Activity in this context pertains to the various biological and therapeutic effects that substances like Nigella sativa can have on the body. Each activity—such as antibacterial, antidiabetic, or anti-inflammatory—demonstrates the plant's potential to address a wide range of health issues and contribute to wellness.
3) Disease:
Diseases represent a broader category encompassing various health disorders that impact human life. Understanding the many diseases that Nigella sativa can address showcases its medicinal potential and highlights the importance of traditional herbal medicine in managing health challenges in different cultures.
4) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological relates to the branch of medicine concerned with the uses, effects, and mechanisms of drugs. This term emphasizes the role of Nigella sativa in pharmacological research, where scientific investigations aim to confirm its therapeutic properties and explore its active compounds in treating various ailments.
5) Science (Scientific):
Sciences encompass various disciplines that evolve from systematic study and experimentation. The clinical exploration of Nigella sativa's properties falls within fields like pharmacology, botany, and biochemistry, showcasing the multi-faceted nature of inquiry into its health benefits and therapeutic applications.
6) New Delhi:
New Delhi, as a major city in India, serves as a hub for medical research, education, and traditional practices such as Ayurveda and Unani medicine. The city's prominence signifies the integration of ancient medicinal practices with modern scientific research, particularly in relation to herbs like Nigella sativa.
7) Indian:
Indian highlights the rich heritage of medicinal plants used in traditional and modern medicine in India. The significance of Nigella sativa in Indian herbal medicine points to its longstanding reputation and therapeutic applications, as well as the cultural practices surrounding its use among various Indian communities.
8) Delhi:
Delhi, the capital of India, is a significant cultural and historical center. Its relevance in the study of Nigella sativa lies in its role as a nexus for traditional medicine practitioners, researchers, and healthcare innovations, fostering a deeper understanding of herbal remedies in contemporary society.
9) Karnataka:
Karnataka is a state in India where the National Institute of Unani Medicine is located. The presence of such institutions underlines the significance of traditional medicine in addressing health issues. Research on Nigella sativa at such institutes contributes to understanding its medicinal properties and benefits.
10) Species:
Species refers to a distinct group of plants or animals that share common characteristics. In botanical research, identifying the species Nigella sativa is crucial, as its unique characteristics and properties play a significant role in understanding its potential health benefits and therapeutic applications.
11) Family:
Family denotes a rank in the biological classification (taxonomy). Nigella sativa belongs to the Ranunculaceae family, which includes various plants with medicinal properties. Understanding the family classification helps in studying the similarities and differences in therapeutic uses and potential benefits of related species.
12) India:
India is synonymous with a rich tradition of medicinal practices, including Ayurveda and Unani medicine, where herbs like Nigella sativa are extensively used. The country’s diverse flora and historical medicinal knowledge highlight the significance of plants in health and wellness across different cultures.
13) Dysmenorrhea (Dysmenorrhoea):
Dysmenorrhoea is defined as painful menstruation that can significantly affect quality of life. The relevance of dysmenorrhoea within the study of Nigella sativa relates to its traditional use in alleviating menstrual pain, supporting its potential applications in women's health.
14) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibacterial refers to substances that can prevent the growth of bacteria. The pharmacological potential of Nigella sativa includes demonstrating notable antibacterial activity, making it a subject of interest for research aimed at developing effective natural antibiotics to combat bacterial infections.
15) Animal:
Animal refers to individual members of the kingdom Animalia. In research related to Nigella sativa, understanding its effects on animal health is crucial for extrapolating potential benefits, safety, and efficacy for human medicine.
16) Death:
Death represents the cessation of biological functions, a profound subject in medical discussions. The reference to Nigella sativa in relation to death—i.e., the prophetic statement claiming it can treat all ailments except death—highlights its perceived significance and potential in holistic healing approaches.
17) House:
House in this context may imply the place where medical knowledge is housed, such as institutions that study herbal medicine. It signifies the importance of communities and scholarly environments in promoting research on plants like Nigella sativa for healing and wellness.
18) Drug:
Drug refers to substances used for medical treatment. Nigella sativa can be considered a natural drug, as its seeds and oil have documented therapeutic effects, highlighting the transition of herbal remedies into more formal medical treatments supported by scientific evidence.
19) Pharmacognostical:
Pharmacognostical pertains to the study of medicines derived from natural sources. The exploration of Nigella sativa's pharmacognostical characteristics involves examining its chemical properties and biological activities, thereby enhancing our understanding of its therapeutic potentials and applications.
20) Civilization:
Civilization refers to complex societies characterized by cultural and technological developments. The historical use of Nigella sativa in various civilizations illustrates the enduring nature of traditional medicine and its integration into cultural health practices throughout human history.
21) Depression:
Depression is a mental health condition that can affect overall well-being. The historical reference to Nigella sativa in treating conditions like depression signifies its role in holistic health approaches, exploring the potential of natural herbs to support mental and emotional health.
22) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a system of traditional medicine originating from India that utilizes herbal remedies for health and wellness. The significance of Ayurveda in relation to Nigella sativa emphasizes its historical integration into holistic health practices and medicinal applications in the Indian context.
23) Vomiting:
Vomiting is a physical reaction that can result from various triggers, including illness or toxins. The reference to Nigella sativa in addressing vomiting highlights its traditional medicinal uses in alleviating gastrointestinal issues, endorsing its importance for digestive health.
24) Chennai:
Chennai, a major city in India, serves as a significant location for medical research and traditional practices. Its relevance in studying Nigella sativa can be tied to its contributions in fostering research into herbal remedies and their roles within the healthcare landscape.
25) Cancer:
Cancer refers to a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. The exploration of Nigella sativa's anticancer properties underscores its potential in oncology, opening avenues for research into natural compounds for cancer treatment and prevention.
26) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma can refer to an author or researchers mentioned in relation to studying Nigella sativa. The mention of specific individuals emphasizes the collaborative efforts in scientific research to validate traditional claims about the plant's therapeutic effects.
27) Nature:
Nature refers to the physical world and its inherent qualities. In the context of Nigella sativa, the relationship between nature and herbal medicine illustrates humanity's reliance on natural sources for healing, promoting the understanding of plant-based remedies in health care.
28) Powder:
Powder refers to a substance reduced to fine particles, often to enhance its digestibility and absorption. Nigella sativa seeds are ground into powder for therapeutic use, emphasizing the methods of preparing herbal substances for various medicinal applications.
29) Sugar:
Sugar, a fundamental carbohydrate, can be associated with health effects and dietary considerations. Discussing sugar's relation to herbs like Nigella sativa may refer to the potential benefits of using natural remedies in managing conditions influenced by dietary intake.
30) Fight:
Fight typically implies the action of combating something harmful. In the medicinal context of Nigella sativa, it denotes the plant's use in fighting diseases and health issues, aligning with its applications in traditional medicine systems.
31) Worm:
Worm refers to various parasitic organisms. The focus on worms in relation to Nigella sativa indicates its historical use in treating infections that these organisms cause, reinforcing its significance in traditional medicine in combating parasitic ailments.
32) Genu:
Genu might refer to a variant or spelling related to genus. The importance of accurate taxonomical classification, including the terms used in identifying plant species, is essential for scientific research and understanding the therapeutic properties of plants.
33) Food:
Food refers to any substance consumed to provide nutritional support. The relevance of Nigella sativa as both a spice and a medicinal herb illustrates its dual role in enhancing culinary practices and promoting health benefits.
34) Milk:
Milk signifies a vital nutritional substance, particularly in lactating women. The reference to Nigella sativa's potential benefits in increasing milk production underscores its known applications within maternal and child health, emphasizing its importance in traditional remedies.
35) Ter:
Ther may refer to therapy or therapeutic methods associated with the healing practices. The exploration of Nigella sativa in therapeutic contexts highlights its role in traditional and alternative medicine as a natural aid for various health issues.
36) Male:
Male indicates one sex in biological classifications. The significance of assessing Nigella sativa's effects on male health, particularly in studies exploring its impact on reproductive health, hormone levels, and other gender-specific health concerns, underscores the need for gender-focused research in herbal medicine.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Therapeutic and pharmacological potential of Nigella sativa in Unani.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Nigella sativa, Medicinal plant, Therapeutic agent, Traditional medicine, Historical reference, Clinical trial, Antioxidant properties, Antimicrobial properties, Analgesic activity, Folk medicine, Immunomodulatory activity, Hepatoprotective activity, Antidiabetic activity, Bronchodilator, Pharmacological action, Bioactivity, Unani system of medicine, Black seed, Gastroprotective properties.