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.
