Extraction and chemical tests on Nigella sativa from Vidarbha, India.

| Posted in: Science

Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Extraction and chemical tests on nigella sativa l. collected from vidarbha region of india
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.
This page presents a generated summary with additional references; See source (below) for actual content.

Original source:

This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.

Author:

Devender Sharma, Kajal V. Kosankar and Ameya M. Lanjewar


World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:

(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)

Full text available for: Extraction and chemical tests on nigella sativa l. collected from vidarbha region of india

Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research

Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20182-10813

Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved


Download the PDF file of the original publication


Summary of article contents:

Introduction

Nigella sativa L., commonly known as black cumin or black seed, belongs to the family Ranunculaceae and is recognized for its extensive medicinal uses, particularly in India. The seeds of this plant have been integral to various indigenous systems of medicine such as Ayurveda, Siddha, and Unani, and are often considered a cure for many ailments except death. The significance of Nigella sativa is rooted in historical texts, including the Holy Quran, which highlights its medicinal properties. This article discusses the extraction methods and chemical constituents of these seeds collected from the Vidarbha region of India, along with their traditional applications in treating various health conditions.

Medicinal Properties and Active Compounds

One of the central themes addressed in the research is the bioactive compound thymoquinone, which is a major constituent of the essential oil derived from Nigella sativa. Thymoquinone (30%-48%) has been linked to significant pharmacological activities, including anticancer effects. Besides thymoquinone, other compounds such as alpha-hederin, various alkaloids, and fatty acids play a crucial role in the therapeutic potential of Nigella sativa. These components contribute to its reputation as a versatile medicinal herb utilized for a plethora of health-related issues, reinforcing its status as a natural remedy with compelling health benefits.

Traditional Uses and Folk Remedies

Nigella sativa has a long-standing history of use in traditional medicine across different cultures, particularly in Eastern and Middle Eastern countries. Various ailments such as respiratory issues, digestive disorders, and cardiovascular problems have been treated with these seeds. Avicenna, a prominent Persian physician, emphasized the energy-boosting properties of black seeds, advocating for their role in recovery from fatigue. The seeds are also used therapeutically for problems like asthma, irregular menstruation, and skin eruptions, reflecting their wide-ranging efficacy in folk medicine practices.

Extraction Methods and Chemical Tests

The study outlines various extraction methods employed to isolate bioactive compounds from Nigella sativa seeds. Techniques such as using a speed extractor, Soxhlet apparatus, and aspirations with solvents like petroleum ether, chloroform, and methanol were applied. The extracts obtained were then subjected to different chemical tests to identify the presence of bioactive constituents like alkaloids, fixed oils, volatile oils, flavonoids, tannins, glycosides, steroids, and triterpenes. The results indicated the presence of various beneficial compounds, underscoring the potential health benefits of the extracts while also noting the absence of some constituents such as glycosides and tannins.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Nigella sativa stands out as a remarkable medicinal plant with diverse applications rooted in traditional and modern medicine. The extraction of its seeds reveals a rich profile of active chemical constituents, particularly thymoquinone, which is crucial for their therapeutic properties. The findings of this study emphasize the relevance of Nigella sativa in pharmacology and its continuing role in folk medicine as an effective remedy for many health issues. As the interest in natural products grows, further research into this ancient herb may unveil new therapeutic avenues for its application in healthcare.

FAQ section (important questions/answers):

What is Nigella sativa and its significance?

Nigella sativa, also known as black cumin, is a medicinal plant valued in various traditional medicines like Ayurveda and Unani. Its seeds have therapeutic properties, including anticancer effects, and are cited in historical texts like the Holy Quran.

What are the main chemical components of Nigella sativa?

Key components include thymoquinone, thymohydroquinone, and various fatty acids. These compounds contribute to its medicinal properties, like anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities, making it significant in herbal remedies.

How are Nigella sativa seeds extracted for research?

Extraction is done using solvents like petroleum ether, chloroform, methanol, and hydro-alcoholic solutions. Various methods such as Soxhlet extraction and speed extractors are employed to isolate the beneficial compounds from the seeds.

What medicinal uses does Nigella sativa have?

Nigella sativa seeds are used for treating respiratory ailments, digestive issues, and improving immune function. They are traditionally believed to have protective and curative properties against various diseases.

What were the results of the chemical tests conducted?

The tests revealed the presence of alkaloids, fixed oils, volatile oils, and flavonoids in various extracts, while glycosides and tannins were absent. This indicates a rich composition with therapeutic potential.

Who conducted the research on Nigella sativa?

The research was conducted by Devender Sharma and collaborators from various pharmaceutical colleges in India, focusing on extracting and testing the chemical properties of Nigella sativa collected from the Vidarbha region.

Glossary definitions and references:

Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Extraction and chemical tests on Nigella sativa from Vidarbha, India.”. 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) Sharman (Sarma, Sharma, Sarman):
Sharma refers to Devender Sharma, a key author of the study investigating the extraction and chemical composition of Nigella sativa L. This indicates the contribution of specific researchers in advancing knowledge within the medicinal plant domain, particularly relating to traditional remedies and their efficacy in modern pharmacological applications.

2) India:
India is significant in this context as it is where Nigella sativa is widely used in various indigenous traditional medicine systems like Ayurveda and Siddha. The geographical and cultural uniqueness of India plays a vital role in the study and application of traditional medicinal practices, especially in herbal remedies.

3) Powder:
Powder is a form of the Nigella sativa seeds prepared via grinding for extraction processes. This form increases the surface area, enhancing the efficacy and efficiency of solvent extractions, which are crucial for isolating beneficial compounds for various medicinal uses.

4) Medicine:
Medicines pertain to substances used to treat illnesses, with Nigella sativa being highlighted for its diverse applications in traditional medicine. The research reinforces the importance of exploring natural remedies within the broader field of medicinal practice.

5) Disease:
Disease is specifically a condition marked by dysfunction or abnormal changes in the body. The text emphasizes the association of Nigella sativa with treatment efficacy for various serious diseases, including its use in traditional medicinal practices to help alleviate symptoms and improve health outcomes.

6) Chandrapur:
Chandrapur is important as it is the location where the Nigella sativa seeds were collected for the study. It illustrates the local context of natural resource utilization and highlights regional biodiversity in the Vidarbha region of India concerning traditional medicinal practices.

7) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra is a state in India, where the study focuses on the pharmacological properties of Nigella sativa sourced from the Chandrapur district. This location is significant not only for its agricultural wealth but also for the cultural traditions surrounding herbal medicine in the region.

8) Water:
Water is a crucial solvent used in various extraction methods outlined in the study. Its use in hydro-alcoholic extraction demonstrates the importance of solvents in isolating active chemical compounds from Nigella sativa, facilitating the comprehensive analysis of its medicinal properties.

9) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are plant-derived compounds known for their antioxidant properties. The presence of flavonoids in Nigella sativa suggests its potential health benefits, highlighting the importance of phytochemical analysis in understanding the therapeutic efficacy of this medicinal plant.

10) Vidarbha:
Vidarbha is a region in Maharashtra known for its agricultural diversity and traditional medicine practices. The focus on samples from Vidarbha links the study to culturally specific knowledge systems that inform the use of local flora in treatment modalities.

11) Family:
Family, in this context, refers to the taxonomic classification indicating that Nigella sativa belongs to the Ranunculaceae family. Understanding its familial relationships helps contextualize its chemical properties and medicinal uses in comparison to other plants in the same family.

12) Cancer:
Cancer represents a major health challenge worldwide, and the study highlights Nigella sativa's anticancer potential due to its active compounds like thymoquinone. This relevance underscores research's role in exploring alternative treatments through natural products in oncology.

13) Bitter:
Bitter describes the taste profile of Nigella sativa seeds, influencing their culinary and medicinal applications. Bitter compounds often correlate with health benefits, reinforcing the idea that taste can offer clues to the therapeutic properties of plants.

14) Death:
Death is the ultimate outcome of various diseases, and the text notes that while Nigella sativa is reputed for treating many ailments, it cannot prevent death. This emphasizes the plant's limits and the importance of understanding the scope of herbal remedies.

15) Container:
Container refers to the storage medium used for extracts post-extraction. Properly storing extracts in clean, dry containers is vital for maintaining chemical integrity and efficacy of the active compounds extracted from Nigella sativa, essential for further research and use.

16) Account:
Accounts refer to historical references and documentation regarding the medicinal uses of plants like Nigella sativa. These accounts provide insights into past treatments, emphasizing the continuity of traditional practices in contemporary medicine.

17) Nashik:
Nashik, another city in Maharashtra, is mentioned for its academic contributions to the study. The collaboration among institutions in Nashik and Chandrapur signifies the regional importance of educational institutes in promoting research on medicinal plants.

18) Filling (Filled):
Filled refers to the state of the cellular structure in Nigella sativa seeds, particularly in the microscopic examination. The observation of seed contents contributes to understanding the composition and oil yield, relevant for assessing its medicinal value.

19) Aroma (A-roma):
Aroma encompasses the characteristic smell of Nigella sativa seeds, which contributes to their culinary use. The aromatic properties often indicate the presence of volatile compounds that can have significant health benefits, connecting the sensory experience with therapeutic potential.

20) Drug:
Drug, in this context, symbolizes the therapeutic applications derived from compounds found in Nigella sativa. Understanding its properties deepens the knowledge of potential new treatments and highlights the intersection of traditional knowledge and modern pharmacology.

21) Life:
Life is a vital aspect, underpinning the significance of traditional medicine in enhancing health and longevity. The study underscores how herbal remedies, like those from Nigella sativa, contribute to well-being and the treatment of various life-affecting diseases.

22) Geographical diversity:
Geographical diversity refers to the variation in plant species and their uses across different regions. The study emphasizes how geographical factors influence the availability of medicinal plants like Nigella sativa and their traditional applications in healthcare.

23) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological pertains to the study of drug action. The article's focus on the pharmacological properties of Nigella sativa explores its therapeutic mechanisms, reflecting increasing research interest in natural products as viable alternatives to synthetic medications.

24) Dysmenorrhea (Dysmenorrhoea):
Dysmenorrhoea refers to painful menstruation, which is cited as one of the conditions Nigella sativa is traditionally used to address. Understanding its potential benefits for alleviating such ailments enhances the plant's appeal in traditional medicine practices.

25) Civilization:
Civilization encapsulates the cultural and historical contexts in which medicinal plants are utilized. The references to ancient civilizations highlight the longstanding tradition of using Nigella sativa, associating it with historical knowledge systems in healthcare.

26) Observation:
Observation refers to the careful examination and testing of the extracts from Nigella sativa. This scientific methodology underscores the importance of rigorous analysis in validating traditional claims about the plant's medicinal properties.

27) Substance:
Substance generally refers to the material or active compounds extracted from Nigella sativa. Identifying and characterizing these substances is crucial for understanding their pharmacological effects and potential applications in health and medicine.

28) Suffering:
Suffering describes the physical and emotional distress associated with diseases. The study emphasizes how traditional remedies, like Nigella sativa, aim to alleviate suffering by offering therapeutic benefits that enhance the quality of life for individuals facing health challenges.

29) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is one of the oldest systems of traditional medicine in India, where Nigella sativa holds significant value. Its incorporation into Ayurvedic practices underscores the cultural heritage and depth of knowledge surrounding medicinal plants in Indian society.

30) Vomiting:
Vomiting is a symptom associated with various health conditions, and the study notes Nigella sativa's use in alleviating nausea. This application illustrates the plant's role in addressing gastrointestinal distress, highlighting its therapeutic relevance.

31) Mineral:
Mineral refers to inorganic micronutrients present within Nigella sativa, which contribute to its overall health benefits. Elucidating the mineral composition enhances the understanding of this plant's nutritional value and potential contributions to health.

32) Habitat:
Habitat refers to the natural environment where Nigella sativa grows, influencing its availability and potential chemical composition. Insights into the habitat enhance knowledge of the plant's cultivation and harvesting practices affecting its medicinal qualities.

33) Species:
Species denotes the classification level in biology, with Nigella sativa as a specific species. This classification helps in understanding the unique characteristics and uses of the plant, particularly in a medicinal context compared to other species.

34) Siddha:
Siddha is a traditional system of medicine practiced in South India, where Nigella sativa is also regarded for its medicinal benefits. The integration of this plant into Siddha practice highlights the diversity and depth of traditional healing systems in India.

35) Greece:
Greece represents one of the ancient civilizations where Nigella sativa was historically utilized. References to ancient Greece illustrate the plant's long-standing significance and cross-cultural knowledge of its medicinal properties.

36) Nature:
Nature emphasizes the organic origins of medicinal plants like Nigella sativa. The intrinsic link between nature and pharmacology showcases how natural products continue to inspire modern medicine and therapeutic interventions.

37) Reason:
Reason indicates the rationale behind using Nigella sativa in traditional medicine. Understanding the scientific basis for its applications reinforces the legitimacy of traditional practices in contemporary health discussions.

38) Nagapura (Naga-pura):
Nagpur, another city in Maharashtra, is relevant for its logistical and research contributions to the study. The academic collaboration across cities in Maharashtra depicts the regional integration of educational efforts in medicinal plant research.

39) Indian:
Indian denotes the geographical and cultural context of the study. It highlights the region's rich history of utilizing herbal remedies in traditional medicine, specifically focusing on the influence of Indian civilization on health practices.

40) Egypt:
Egypt is historically significant as one of the earliest civilizations to document the use of herbs like Nigella sativa. Its mention underscores the cross-cultural travels and exchanges of medicinal plant knowledge through history.

41) Roman (Roma):
Roman reflects the ancient influence of Roman civilization on herbal medicine, including usage of Nigella sativa. This highlights the continuity and evolution of medicinal understanding across different cultures and epochs.

42) Glass:
Glass refers to the material commonly used for laboratory equipment in extracting and storing Nigella sativa extracts. Using glass containers ensures the preservation of chemical constituents, emphasizing cleanliness and integrity in scientific study.

43) Sugar:
Sugar may refer to carbohydrate content found within Nigella sativa seeds, which can have implications for nutritional value and energy sources. Understanding sugar content integrates the nutritional aspects of the plant into its medicinal profile.

44) Syria (Syrian):
Syria is mentioned as part of the geographical range of Nigella sativa cultivation, highlighting the historical use and knowledge surrounding this plant across different Middle Eastern cultures, showcasing its broad acceptance and significance in ancient herbal practices.

45) Fever:
Fever represents a common symptom of many illnesses, and Nigella sativa is noted for its traditional use in managing such symptoms. This underscores the plant's relevance in alleviating discomfort associated with infectious diseases or inflammatory responses.

46) Cutan:
Sudan reflects the geographic area where Nigella sativa is cultivated. Its inclusion in the context highlights the global relevance of the plant and its widespread applications in traditional medicine across African regions.

47) Cina:
Sina likely references Avicenna (Ibn Sina), a historical medical scholar who wrote extensively about herbal medicines like Nigella sativa. His contributions underline the historical significance of such plants in ancient medicinal literature.

48) Worm:
Worm refers to intestinal parasites, highlighting Nigella sativa's traditional usage for treating such conditions. This underscores the practical applications of the plant in folk medicine and its historical relevance in gastrointestinal health.

49) Genu:
Genu could refer to the structure or specific characteristics of Nigella sativa that define its identity in the plant kingdom. This aspect is relevant for distinguishing medicinal properties from other similar plants.

50) Food:
Food refers to the culinary uses of Nigella sativa, which is often used as a spice. Its incorporation in cooking highlights the dual role of the plant as both a flavoring agent and a medicinal substance.

51) Sahi:
Sahi is a reference to a notable figure or author linked to the study, emphasizing the contributions of specific individuals to the research on Nigella sativa and its applications in traditional medicine and pharmacology.

52) Rich (Rch):
Rich indicates the abundance of active compounds within Nigella sativa that contribute to its nutritional and medicinal properties. This richness affirms its significance as a valuable resource in herbal therapies and pharmacology.

53) Pain:
Pain is a critical symptom that Nigella sativa aims to alleviate through its various uses in traditional medicine. Its application for pain relief stresses the continuing relevance of herbal remedies in managing common health issues.

54) Shand (Sand):
Sand may refer to the method of preparation or filtration in the extraction processes of active ingredients from Nigella sativa seeds. It emphasizes the importance of proper techniques in scientific research to preserve the plant's efficacy.

55) Oil:
Oils refer to the extracted essential oils from Nigella sativa seeds, known for their therapeutic properties. The study of these oils is significant in understanding their potential applications in modern pharmacology and wellness practices.

Other Science Concepts:

[back to top]

Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Extraction and chemical tests on Nigella sativa from Vidarbha, India.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:

Nigella sativa, Medicinal plant, Natural product, Pharmacological properties, Chemical composition, Holy Quran, Traditional use, Active ingredient, Plant morphology, Solvent extraction, Gastrointestinal disease, Thymoquinone, Bioprospecting, Chemical test, Organ transplantation, Anti-cancer agent, Folk remedies, Immune system support.

Let's grow together!

I humbly request your help to keep doing what I do best: provide the world with unbiased sources, definitions and images. Your donation direclty influences the quality and quantity of knowledge, wisdom and spiritual insight the world is exposed to.

Let's make the world a better place together!

Like what you read? Consider supporting this website: