Nigella sativa or “Kalo jeera” also known as black seed, kalonji seed, fennel flower seed, black caraway seed and black cumin. It is a flavorful spice that has its own sweet and nutty flavor. Nigella sativa is a widely used medicinal plant that has a history of a thousand years. Some of its components have a high affinity to many SARS-CoV-2 proteins and enzymes.
Nigella sativa is a powerhouse of crude fibers, amino acids, iron, sodium, calcium, vitamin and potassium. As per Islam, this seed is a cure for every disease. According to Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, “Use this black seed regularly, because it is a cure for every disease, except death.”
A recent study led by the researchers at the University of Technology in Sydney suggests that nigella sativa, also called nigella seeds can help treat COVID-19 infection. The study has been published in the Journal of Clinical and Experimental Pharmacology and Physiology.
"There is growing evidence from modelling studies that thymoquinone, an active ingredient of nigella sativa, more commonly known as the fennel flower, can stick to the COVID- 19 virus spike protein and stop the virus from causing a lung infection. It may also block the ‘cytokine’ storm that affects seriously ill patients who are hospitalised with COVID-19," said Kaneez Fatima Shad, Professor at the University of Technology, Sydney.
"Advances in pharmacological development such as nanotechnology have seen the chance to overcome this barrier to enable its use as an effective oral medication. Furthermore, the drug has recently been successfully given to patients as a nasal spray and topical paste, she added."
Other health benefits of Nigella sativa
- If you suffer from cholesterol problems, nigella sativa can help by aiding total and reducing LDL cholesterol. This can help improve overall heart health.
- It has antibacterial properties, which can help fight various bacterial infections.
- Nigella sativa reduces inflammation in the body and thus reduces your risk of various diseases.
- Studies have shown that consumption of nigella sativa can aid blood sugar treatment.
- It is rich in antioxidants, which benefits your overall health.
