The black cumin seed or Nigella Sativa as is the correct botanical name is one of the most well known medicinal seeds in history.
In Egypt the seeds are grown in almost perfect conditions with seeds having being found in the tomb of Tutankhamen and have even been mentioned in the Bible.
However, it wasn't until only forty years ago that the seeds were extensively researched, since this time more and more interest in these seeds has occurred and there have been around 200 studies conducted into the medicinal value of them.
Black cumin seeds have been used to treat a wide range of illnesses and disorders; a famous Greek physician used it to treat toothache and headaches and in fact said that the black cumin seed could cure every disease but death.
The reason they are thought to be so effective at curing and helping a wide variety of problems and illnesses could be that the seeds contain over 100 different chemical constituents.
The seeds are spicy and are often used in cooking although it is the oil in them that is most effective when used for medicinal purposes.
However, even today black cumin is regarded by some as nothing but a folklore remedy, but there is no denying that the seeds have been found to be far more superior to any other natural remedy in particular when used in the treatment of autoimmune disorders.
Improvements have been seen in sufferers whose own systems attack their bodies.
Some of the greatest results have shown up in those who suffer from asthma and other allergies.
Providing there is no infection present black cumin seeds react very quickly, if there is sign of infection then of course the infection must be dealt with first.
In cases of asthma and allergies the most significant improvements were found in those who continued taking black cumin for 6 months or longer.
Black cumin has anti-histamine properties that greatly help with congestion associated with asthma and bronchitis, making the removal of phlegm from the passages much easier.
With a natural remedy as this containing so many constituents, it is not surprising that is has been hailed as a wonder cure throughout history.
The primary ingredient in black cumin is crystalline nigellone, other ingredients found in the herb and which are beneficial health wise include amino acids, fatty acids, crude fiber, and minerals including potassium, sodium, iron and calcium.
It is most commonly sold in capsule form with around 50 to 75mg been taken as a supplement.
Seed oil is also a popular form and available as a nutritional supplement, the seeds are cold pressed to extract the oil and are usually used to treat conditions of the skin such as dry skin, eczema and psoriasis.
The oil is also used and taken internally to aid in the treatment of asthma, arthritis and to help give the immune system a boost.
The recommended dosage when the oil is taken this way is 1 teaspoon with meals.