Nigella / Black Seed (Extended)
Nigella sativa
Black seed (Nigella sativa) — known as Habbatus Sauda in Arabic — is mentioned in Islamic prophetic medicine as 'a cure for everything except death.' Thymoquinone (TQ), the primary active compound, is one of the most researched natural anti-cancer molecules. It induces apoptosis in multiple cancer types, sensitises cancer cells to chemotherapy, protects healthy cells from chemo/radiation damage, and modulates the immune system. Particularly well-studied for pancreatic, breast, and blood cancers. Lebanon and Palestine are among the traditional heartlands of medicinal Nigella use.
Medicinal Properties
Cancer Types Studied
Recommended Dosage
Cold-pressed black seed oil: 1 tsp (5 ml) twice daily with honey. Ground seeds: 1–2 tsp daily in food. Thymoquinone extract: 100–300 mg daily.
Preparations
Black Seed Oil with Honey
1 tsp cold-pressed Nigella sativa oil mixed with 1 tsp raw honey. Take twice daily on an empty stomach. Traditional Prophetic medicine protocol.
Habbatus Sauda Tea
Lightly crush 1 tsp black seeds, steep in boiling water for 5–7 minutes with a cinnamon stick. Strain and add honey. Traditional Levantine daily health ritual.
NIH / PubMed Research
Links open on PubMed (National Library of Medicine). Research is ongoing — results may not reflect clinical use.
Cautions & Interactions
- May reduce blood pressure — caution with antihypertensives
- Thins blood — stop 2 weeks before surgery or with anticoagulants
- May lower blood glucose — monitor in diabetics
- Avoid high doses in pregnancy
Related Herbs
Informational only. Not medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before use.