Analysis of information


botanical name: nigella sativa.

Common names: black cumin seed, kalaunji, kalunji and also known

as melanthion of hippocrates.



The specific seed constituents that have been identified and investigated includes:

fixed oils.
Saponins.
Volatile or essential oils.
Alkaloids and
amino acids.
It also has traces of calcium, iron, sodium, potassium, and crude fibre.


A. Fixed oils:



the fixed oils, constitute 37% of the seed and maybe subdivided into – triglycerides and sterols.



A1. Triglycerides; which are a storage form of fatty acids, are further sub-divided into:



i) saturated fatty acids
myristic 0,16%
palmatic 12,08%
stearic 3,11%



ii) unsaturated fatty acids
(which is essential in the diet of man as they cannot be synthesised in the body).
Oleic 24,64%
linoleic 56,12%

linolenic 0,70%
eicosadienoic 2,53%



the above analysis is particularly interesting because of the high concentration of unsaturated fatty acids, i.E., 84%. A tremendous amount of interest is currently being expressed in natural and health circles in evening primrose oil. This oil is being prescribed for virtually all conditions, from skin care to revitalizing the body. This oil contains linoleic and linolenic acid.



Although little is known about the oil’s bio-activity, nor is its pharmacological action conclusively proven, but what is known is that linoleic and linolenic acid act as precursors to prostaglandins. Protaglandins which are lipid soluble acid compounds have been detected in almost every tissue and body fluid. They produce in minute amounts a broad spectrum of effects embracing practically every biological function.



This function includes:

1. Increasing cardiac and renal output.

2. Action on all smooth muscles – in reproductive system, g.I.T. Tract, and respiratory tract.

3. Action on the central nervous system, endocrine system and metabolism, etc.



It is thus apparent that an intake of the seed will result in an increased prostaglandin level which can have a tremendous effect on the entire body.



Preparations containing linoleic and linolenic acids have been used extensively for the treatment of:



i) lowering blood cholesterol.

Ii) eczema and skin diseases.

Iii) multiple sclerosis.

Iv) pre-menstrual tension.

V) variety of tumors.

Vi) arterio-thrombotic diseases.

Vii) rheumatoid arthritis.