The Sunday Times Review Black Seed
Columnist, Susan Clark in The Sunday Times, ‘What’s the Alternative?’ wrote:
“I was impressed by this herb (black seed) because, when I was given it to get rid of an intense migraine, it quickly cleared both my congested head and my congested sinuses.”
Full article from: The Sunday Times, October 09, 2005
Health
Susan Clark — What's the alternative?
Q. What can you tell me about the herb black seed (Nigella sativa)? Is it true that it can cure all ailments? And can I get any products that contain it in the UK?
J Jackson, by e-mail
A. Coincidentally, this is one of the herbs that I intend to investigate when I return to Morocco this month to take a closer look at some of the Arabic and traditional Berber remedies I encountered on my first visit to that part of the world earlier this year. Nigella sativa is called sanouge, or Naigella, in that part of the world, but is known as black cumin or black caraway in other regions. I was impressed by this herb because, when I was given it to get rid of an intense migraine, it quickly cleared both my congested head and my congested sinuses.
The fact that it was found in the tomb of Tutankhamun suggests it was an important plant in ancient Egypt, and there are so many medicinal claims for this plant that it has become known as “the seed of blessing”. Generally speaking — and despite the fact that I find the folklore and ethnobotany associated with specific plants the most interesting part of this job — I would steer clear of any remedies reputed to be a miracle cure for anything, never mind everything. Nevertheless, black seed is an intriguing herb, and my personal experience tells me that it has potent medicinal properties.
I brought back a large bag of these seeds in their raw state from North Africa. To use them, especially for headaches, I simply bundle a teaspoon of seeds into a small square of muslin, squash the bundle to release the vapours, and inhale.
(COMMENT: SHE OBVIOUSLY DID NOT MAKE MUCH STUDY CONCERNING THIS!) In the UK, the only company I can find selling products based on black seed is Victoria Health (0800 413596, www.victoriahealth.com) which sells Mercy Inhale Oil (£9.95 for 50ml) and Mercy Drinking Oil Capsules (£15.95 for 60 capsules). Both are available by mail order.
For more information on natural health, visit my website: www.whatreallyworks.co.uk
If you have any questions or tips, write to What’s the Alternative? Style, The Sunday Times, 1 Pennington Street, London E98 1ST. We can only provide replies to published letters
Before following any medical or dietary advice in this column, please consult your GP if you suffer from any health problems or special conditions, or are in doubt as to its suitability