Black Seed/Kalonji.
Remember the little black seeds popping in oil when we start curry preparation? Also called Black cumin (Nigella sativa). A bioactive in it called thymoquinone can boost your immunity and help with allergies.
The term "Immunity" means the ability of the body to ward off infections. Strong immunity results in less sickness. This is usually measured by the body's count or activity of immune cells.
A type of white blood cell, Macrophages surround, kill, and remove dead microorganisms and stimulate the action of other immune system cells.
Black seed has been shown to improve the working ability of macrophages. [1]
Oral intake of crushed seeds powder ranging from 0.5-4g has shown medicinal properties. [2]
It has been considered a 'remedy for all diseases except death.' 50-60% of the seed comprises linoleic acid, i.e., 0.4-2.5% of total seed weight. [3]
- It has vitamin B1 at 831 mcg/100g dry weight.
- Vitamin B2 at 63 mcg/100g dry weight.
- Vitamin B6 at 789 mcg/100g dry weight.
- Niacin at 6,311 mcg/100g dry weight.
- Vitamin E at 340-361 mcg/100g dry weight. [4].
Its anti-inflammatory properties are beneficial in diseases like rheumatoid arthritis [7] and hepatitis C. [8]
Black seeds can fight bacterial infections like helicobacter pylori. [9]
This can easily be an addition to your everyday meal!