Nigella sativa (black seed or black cumin) originated from the Mediterranean region and has been used in cultures in that area since time immemorial. The well-named herb has jetblack seeds notable for their content of terpenoids, particularly thymoquinone, and fatty acids. Clinical trials have validated this herb's traditional use for treating atopic disorders. There is also clinical trial support, although preliminary, for the use of black seed in people withdrawing from, and trying to abstain from, opioids, and people who want to improve lipid profiles and/or decrease seizure frequency.Other actions black seed shows are antidiabetic, antineoplastic, antimicrobial, inflammation-modulating, redox-modulating, immunomodulating, analgesic, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, and gastroprotective effects. Animal studies suggest that this herb may be a useful adjunct to cancer chemotherapy and acetaminophen. Black seed is extremely safe if used in proper doses and is a widely utilized food item in the Middle East and India. Further research is needed but this resource should be more widely utilized in the West.

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This review discusses the clinical potentials of Bacopa monnieri (bacopa, water hyssop, or brahmi). Bacopa is an herb that combines adaptogenic and nervine properties. Animal and clinical studies show it to have anxiolytic, antidepressant, cognitive-enhancing, antioxidant, cholinergic, and adaptogenic actions. These properties make it a highly useful herb to help patients cope with physical and emotional stress, and the cognitive impairment that usually accompanies aging.

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