Assalamu alaikum, ya nesan!

Blackseed is a common spice used the world over since ancient times. The oldest known mention of this spice comes from the Assyrians of ancient Egypt, and the oldest specimens of this spice were found in Hitite settlements which existed in 2000 B.C., in modern day Turkey. Blackseed oil has even been found in the tomb of the famous Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun who died in 1323 B.C.

Blackseed is famous amongst the Saraceni, and the greater Islamic world because of the following Hadith, where it is referred to as “al -hubat al-suwda” (الحبة السوداء) -

Narrated by Abu Huraira:

فِي الْحَبَّةِ السَّوْدَاءِ شِفَاءٌ مِنْ كُلِّ دَاءٍ إِلاَّ السَّامَ

I heard Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) saying, "There is healing in black cumin for all diseases except death."
- Sahih al-Bukhari, Book 76, Hadith 11

A closer look.

This hadith is quite the endorsement for the humble blackseed, and therefore let us look at it a little closer. Blackseed is the seed of the Nigella Sativa plant, and forms within its fruits. This plant is native to South East Asia, but has permeated Africa, the Mediterranean, Middle East and even the Americas over time. This seed is also called Bharaka seed, Nigella seed, and Kalonji seed, but is incorrectly referred to as black cumin and black caraway seeds, which are somewhat similar in appearance but come from different plants, and contain different properties. In Sinhala, it is called "Kaluduru" (කළුදුරු).

Blackseed, in its various forms have been part of traditional medicine since time immemorial, and still is an important and revered ingredient in folk medicine. Scientific study of blackseed is on the rise, and has brought us deeper insight into its beneficial properties. Research shows that there are three main compounds within the seed that are of medical interest, namely Thymoquinone, Thymohyroquinone and Thymol. Thymoquinone is a powerful anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant, Thymohydroquinone acts as an effective acetylcholinesterase inhibitor, and Thymol is a powerful anti-microbial agent. Together these compounds are a powerful trifecta, that maybe able to cure all diseases except death. Because almost all diseases are a result of either inflammation, oxidation, degeneration or microbial activity.

Despite the potential of this age-old spice, modern medicine is yet to formulate medication that includes blackseed. However, scientific studies have shown that using blackseed is effective against a range of ailments that plague us. For example, consuming blackseed powder daily helps eliminate triglycerides (commonly referred to as “bad cholesterol”) and controls high blood pressure. And blackseed oil and/or extracts are effective in controlling a range of diseases including, type 1 and type 2 Diabetes, Rheumatoid Arthritis, malignant cancer tumors, Leukemia, Asthma, Epileptic seizures and a range of other diseases. It has special benefits for men, in that it protects sperm from damage, and makes them more active, easing the effects of infertility. Scientists have even managed to formulate prescription doses targeting specific conditions –

For asthma: 2 grams of ground black seed has been used daily for 12 weeks. Also, 500 mg of black seed oil has been taken twice daily for 4 weeks. In addition, 15 mL/kg of black seed extract has been used daily for 3 months. A single dose of 50-100 mg/kg has also been used.

For diabetes: 1 gram of black seed powder has been used twice daily for up to 12 months.

For high blood pressure: 0.5-2 grams of black seed powder has been taken daily for up to 12 weeks. Also, 100-200 mg or 2.5 mL of black seed oil has been used twice daily for 8 weeks.

To improve sperm function: 2.5 mL of black seed oil has been used twice daily for 2 months.

For breast pain: A gel containing 30% black seed oil has been applied to breasts every day for two menstrual cycles.

Before his esteemed readers begin using blackseed medically, Ibn Serendib very strongly recommends consulting a physician, especially if you have a preexisting health condition, as self-medication is against wisdom.

Since ancient times blackseed has been a potent medication proven by trial, and even today under the scrutiny of science, it hasn’t failed to impress. Therefore, Ibn Serendib is very confident that humanity will, hopefully within his lifetime realize, the potential of this amazing creation of Allah, and make its benefits available to all.

May Allah preserve our health, and save us from ailments!