Dr. Weeks’ Comment: The 3-seed anti-inflammatory drink SOUL has many benefits as a health food. The black cumin itself is anti-cancer and the Xylitol kills yeast as does the black cumin (see below).
“In 2003, one study noted the antifungal activity of black cumin seed extract against Candida albicans. In the study, mice were injected with Candida albicans, producing colonies of the organism in their liver, spleen, and kidneys. The researchers found that treatment with black cumin seed extract 24 hours after inoculation inhibited growth of the Candida albicans. With continued treatment, the extract significantly decreased the amount of Candida albicansfound in the kidneys, liver, and spleen.
Aside from verifying its antibacterial and antifungal properties, researchers in recent years have tested the anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects of black cumin seed extract. In 1995, a group of scientists from the Department of Pharmacy at King’s College in London found that the extract contains these properties, and is an antioxidant as well. They believe the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant abilities may be linked to ingredients such as thymoquinone and unsaturated fatty acids. Ultimately, the researchers concluded that black cumin seed extract is a justified treatment for rheumatism and related inflammatory diseases.”
Resources Books
Luetjohann, S. The Healng Power of Black Cumin. Twin Trees, WI: Lotus Light Publications, 1998.
Schleicher, P., and M. Saleh The Magical Egyptian Herb for Allergies, Asthma, and Immune Disorders. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 2000.
PERIODICALS
Albert-Matesz, R. “One of life’s tiny treasures.” The Herb Companion October 2003; 16: 16-25. 1998.
Ali, B. H., and G. Blunden. “Pharmacological and toxicological properties of Nigella sativa.” Phytotherapy Research. (April 2003): 299-305.
Al-Ghamdi, M.S. “The anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and antipyretic activity of Nigella sativa.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology. (June 2001): 45-48.
Al-Naggar, T. B., M. P. Gomez-Serranillos, M. E. Carretero, and A. M. Villar. “Neuropharmacological activity of Nigella sativa L Extracts.” Journal of Ethnopharmacology. (September 2003): 63-68.
Chakravarty, N. “Inhibition of histamine release from mast cells by nigellone.”Annals Allergy. (March 1993): 237-42.
Hanafy, M. S., and M. E. Hatem. “Studies on the antimicrobial activity of Nigella sativa seed (black cumin).” Journal of Ethnopharmacology. (September 1991): 275-8.
Kalus, U., A. Pruss, J. Bystron, A. Smekalova, J. J. Lichius, and H. Kiesewetter. “Effect of Nigella sativa (black seed) on subjective feeling in patients with allergic diseases.” Phytotherapy Research. (December 2003): 1209-14.
Khan, M. A., M. K. Ashfaq, H. S. Zuberi, M. S. Mahmood, and A. H. Gilani. “The in vivo antifungal activity of the aqueous extract from Nigella sativa seeds.” Phytotherapy Research (February 2003): 183-6.