An updated knowledge of Black seed (Nigella sativa Linn.): Review of phytochemical constituents and pharmacological properties

Abstract

N. sativa ( N. sativa ) has been used since ancient times, when a scientific concept about the use of medicinal plants for the treatment of human illnesses and alleviation of their sufferings was yet to be developed. It has a strong religious significance as it is mentioned in the religious books of Islam and Christianity. In addition to its historical and religious significance, it is also mentioned in ancient medicine. It is widely used in traditional systems of medicine for a number of diseases including asthma, fever, bronchitis, cough, chest congestion, dizziness, paralysis, chronic headache, back pain and inflammation. The importance of this plant led the scientific community to carry out extensive phytochemical and biological investigations on N. sativa . Pharmacological studies on N. sativa have confirmed its antidiabetic, antitussive, anticancer, antioxidant, hepatoprotective, neuro-protective, gastroprotective, immunomodulator, analgesic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, and bronchodilator activity. The present review is an effort to explore the reported chemical composition and pharmacological activity of this plant. It will help as a reference for scientists, researchers, and other health professionals who are working with this plant and who need up to date knowledge about it.

Nigella sativa and Thymoquinone: A Natural Blessing for Periodontal Therapy

“…Multiple studies have investigated the antimicrobial effect of NS and TQ on different bacterial strains and species [ 50 ]. In numerous investigations TQ and NS compounds have displayed a significant bactericidal activity against Gram-negative and Gram-positive bacteria and inhibited bacterial biofilm formation [ 62 , 94 ], encouraging the application of TQ as an antimicrobial agent in diverse diseases [ 7 , 9 ]. One of the suggested mechanisms of TQ-mediated bactericidal ability was the targeted ROS generation against bacterial cells [ 94 ] with a simultaneous antioxidant and scavenging effect protecting the host tissues from oxidative stress [ 79 ].…”

“…Investigations have accredited the health benefits of NS due to its rich nutritional content and active components [ 4 ]. The seeds are composed of fixed and essential oils, alkaloids, proteins and saponins [ 4 , 9 ]. Among the pharmacologically active components that have been isolated from NS up to now the most described active and therapeutic constituent is thymoquinone (TQ) [ 9 ].…”

“…The seeds are composed of fixed and essential oils, alkaloids, proteins and saponins [ 4 , 9 ]. Among the pharmacologically active components that have been isolated from NS up to now the most described active and therapeutic constituent is thymoquinone (TQ) [ 9 ]. Numerous investigators have expansively reviewed NS and TQ and found them to have various medicinal activities, such as anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, analgesic, histamine release inhibitory, hypoglycemic, anticarcinogenic, antihypertensive, immune-activating and hepatoprotective effects [ 3 , 4 ].…”

Effects of Nigella sativa on Performance, Blood Profiles, and Antibody Titer against Newcastle Disease in Broilers

“…The possible biochemical active components of N . sativa and their pharmacological effects have been investigated [ 11 , 12 ], and their pharmacological actions as immune stimulation, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antiparasitic activities[ 5 , 13 – 17 ] have also been studied. Recently, the potential effects of N .…”

A comprehensive review on the antiviral activities of chalcones

“…Nature is considered as a valuable source of medicine due to the existence of certain active ingredients and chemicals in various plant species. Numerous plant extracts were found to be useful remedies in different disease conditions [1][2][3]. Among the wellstudied phytochemicals are chalcones.…”