Black Cumin Research Articles

Black seed assisted synthesis, characterization, free radical scavenging, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity of iron oxide nanoparticles

Iron nanoparticles comprise a significant class of inorganic nanoparticles, which discover applications in various zones by prudence of their few exciting properties. This study achieved the green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) by black cumin seed (Nigella sativa) extract, which acts as a reducing and capping agent. The iron nanoparticles and black cumin extract were synthesized in three different concentrations: (01:01, 02:04,01:04). UV-visible spectroscopy, XRD, FTIR, and AFM characterized the synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles. UV-visible spectra show the maximum absorbance peak of 01:01 concentration at 380 nm. The other concentrations, such as 02:04, peaked at 400 nm and 01:04 at 680 nm, confirming the formation of iron oxide nanoparticles. AFM analysis reveals the spherical shape of iron oxide nanoparticles. The XRD spectra reveal the (fcc) cubic crystal structure of the iron oxide nanoparticles. The FTIR analysis’s peaks at 457.13, 455.20, and 457.13 cm-1 depict the characteristic iron nanoparticle synthesis. The black cumin extract-mediated iron oxide nanoparticles show substantial antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in a dose-dependent manner.

Bioaccumulation of heavy metals, assessment of carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health risk in various spices

Spices consumption is the main pathway for human exposure to certain environmental pollutants. This study was aimed to evaluate the concentration of heavy metals such as cadmium (Cd), chromium (Cr), copper (Cu), iron (Fe), manganes (Mn), lead (Pb) and zinc (Zn) in different parts of various spices samples in Arba Minch Ethiopia. The average levels of metals in white cumin, fenugreek, black cumin, turmeric, basil, cardamom, and coriander were varied in the range 0.35–1.8, 1.02–11.96, 1.69–32.19, 20.74–38.98, 7.38–26.01, 2.96–9.57 and 5.38–44.63 mg/kg for Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb and Zn, respectively. Principal component analysis (PCA) showed that the robust linkage between Zn, Cr, and Mn in PC1, Cu and Pb in PC2, and Cd and Fe in PC3 comprising 39.10 %, 25.72 % and 18.57 % of the total variance, respectively. The average daily intake values were calculated in the range 5.22 × 10–5–2.69 × 10–4, 1.52 × 10–4–1.78 × 10–3, 2.53 × 10–4–4.81 × 10–3, 3.09 × 10–3–5.82 × 10–3, 1.1 × 10–3–3.88 × 10–3, 4.42 × 10–4–1.43 × 10–3, and 8.18 × 10–4–6.66 × 10–3, for Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe, Mn, Pb and Zn, respectively. The target hazard quotient (THQ) and hazard index (except in white cumin and fenugreek) for heavy metals in various spices were lower than the acceptable limit of unity (THQ and HI <1). The carcinogenic risk values were in the acceptable threshold limit (1 × 10–6–1 × 10–4), indicating that consuming different spices in the studied area will not pose a potential health risk to human health.

Development of Ohmic Heating Apparatus for Extraction of Edible Oil from Black Cumin Seed

Development of Ohmic Heating Apparatus for Extraction of Edible Oil from Black Cumin Seed

Enhancing the sustainable protein extraction process from black cumin seed cake press for eco-friendly protein supplements

Enhancing the sustainable protein extraction process from black cumin seed cake press for eco-friendly protein supplements

Preparation and Application of Black Cumin Seed Oil Emulsion with Enhanced Stability for Antimicrobial Treatment of Cellulosic Fabric

Preparation and Application of Black Cumin Seed Oil Emulsion with Enhanced Stability for Antimicrobial Treatment of Cellulosic Fabric

Testing The Antibacterial Effectiveness of Black Cumin Extract on The Growth of Bacteria Bacillus Cereus Disk Diffusion Method

The main components of volatile oils are thymoquinone, thymohydroquinone, thymoquinone, thymol, and tannin which have been proven to be able to inhibit bacterial growth. This research was conducted to determine the antibacterial effectiveness of black cumin against the growth of Bacillus cereus bacteria with various concentrations of 10%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% using the diffusion method. The type of research used by researchers is experimental. In this study, the disk disc method was used with concentrations of 10% 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% using Amoxicillin 0.3% as a positive control for Bacillus cereus bacteria with repetition three times, by soaking the disc for 15 minutes in each concentration and attach the disc to media that has been inoculated with Bacillus cereus bacteria. Based on research results from the results of measurements of the inhibitory zone of the Bacillus cereus bacterium, it is included in the weak category with all concentrations showing an inhibitory zone with an average diameter of 8.67 mm, 10.67 mm, 12 mm, 16.33 mm, and 17.67 mmm. The conclusion from research on the antibacterial effectiveness of black cumin extract can inhibit the growth of Bacillus cereus bacteria in the weak inhibition category.

Effects of thymoquinone and the curcumin analog EF-24 on the activity of the enzyme paraoxonase-1 in human glioblastoma cells U87MG

The spices and aromatic herbs were used not only in cooking to add flavour and smell to dishes but also for medicinal use. Nigella sativa, also called black cumin, is one of the species that contains an important bioactive component, thymoquinone (TQ), which has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antidiabetic effects. Curcuma longa, which also includes curcumin, has numerous anti-cancer properties. However, the bioavailability of curcumin is lower than that of its analogs. An analog of curcumin (EF-24), which has better bioavailability than curcumin, is capable of exerting a high anti-cancer effect. In our study, we determined the effects of PON1 enzyme activity on the proliferation and aggressiveness of glioblastoma cancer treated with TQ and EF-24 from lysates of the glioblastoma cell line U87MG. The results were determined as increased PON1 activity after treatment with TQ and EF-24 in the U87MG cell line (p < 0.0001).

The influence of different forms of black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) on the characteristics of sheep’s curd cheese

The influence of different forms of Nigella sativa (seeds, powder, alcoholic extract, and oil) on the traditional sheep curd was investigated by comparison with a control simple curd considering a series of sensorial, physical–chemical, and microbiological aspects. The analysis was performed on curds freshly prepared and after 10 days of refrigeration. The sensory analysis of the curds was performed using a variety of methods such as scaling method, the method of quality describing, the method of ordering by rank, “triangle” method, and “duo-trio” method. The analyzed curds were assessed and classified according to their sensory characteristics and typicality. The N. sativa supplementing of the sheep curds improved their physical–chemical characteristics by raising the fat content with 0.88–2.82% and decreasing the titratable acidity with 1.42–2.32% compared to the control curd without additive. After 10 days of refrigeration, the titratable acidity increased with 1.58–3.25% and moisture decreased (8.43–13.17%). The microbiological quality of the curd samples was influenced by the addition of black cumin in different forms, with variations in the total number of bacteria (TNB) between 4.33 and 4.39 log CFU/g compared to the control sample 5.03 log CFU/g, Enterobacteriaceae (2.53–2.58 log CFU/g) compared to the control sample 2.60 log CFU/g, and coagulase-positive staphylococci (CPS) 2.30–2.68 log CFU/g compared to the control sample 2.75 log CFU/g. After 10 days of refrigeration, the number of microorganisms decreased, TNB (4.13–4.31 log CFU/g), Enterobacteriaceae (2.34–2.53 log CFU/g), and CPS (2.02–2.55 log CFU/g), while for the control sample the values increased. The most obvious antimicrobial effect was observed in the case of the cold-pressed oil addition (1%), followed by the alcoholic extract (1%), seeds (3%), and powder (3%).

Effects of Seed Priming on Germination of Nigella sativa L. and Comparison of Germination Performance with Yield Parameters in Field Conditions

The utilization of Nigella sativa L., commonly known as black cumin, in traditional and medicinal practices is well-documented, attributing to its wide-ranging biological activities. Given its significance, this study explores the efficacy of various seed priming treatments (control, distilled water, potassium humate, and gibberellic acid) under laboratory and field conditions to enhance the early growth stages of Nigella sativa L. Priming treatments aimed to improve germination rates, plant height, and other growth parameters, potentially translating into increased agricultural productivity. According to results plant height ranged from 52.38 to 58.91 cm, number of branches between 3.76 and 3.98 (branch plant-1). The number of capsules varied from 4.93 to 6.81 (capsule plant-1), capsule seed weight was between 0.19 and 0.22 (gram capsule-1 ), and the thousand-seed weight ranged from 2.26 to 2.39 grams. The germination rate ranged from 78% to 93%, germination index 4.22-5.83 and mean germination time was observed from 4.27 to 4.82 days. Our findings reveal significant effects of priming on germination parameters and plant height, this offering insights into the potential of these treatments to optimize crop growth. However, the transition of these benefits to field conditions, particularly yield-related parameters, appeared limited, suggesting the complex nature of growth enhancement strategies and their implications for agricultural practices.

Nutraceutical activities of Trigonella foenum-graecum and Nigella sativa seeds in the management of diabetes-induced in albino rats.

Diabetes causes elevated blood sugar levels, and it has been categorized as one of the most frequent causes of death worldwide. This work aimed to analyze and compare the nutraceutical and therapeutic efficacy of fenugreek seeds (FSs) (Trigonella foenum-graecum) and black cumin seeds (BCSs) (Nigella sativa) against streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus in albino rats. FS and BCSs were evaluated for proximate analysis, phytochemicals, and antioxidant activities. Male albino rats were used to evaluate the in vivo antidiabetic activities of these medicinal plants for 42 days. Blood samples were drawn at regular intervals of 1 week to analyze blood glucose, plasma insulin, and cholesterol levels and to determine the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA IR) index. At the end of the trial, pancreas tissue was also collected for histological examination. Results of the proximate analysis showed the significant presence of moisture, ash, fat, protein, and fiber. Antioxidant parameters like 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, total phenolic content, and total flavonoid content were found to be significant. There was a significant (p<0.05) decrease in blood glucose level, serum cholesterol level, and insulin resistance in treatment groups T3-T5. Insulin and body weight results of treatment groups were significant (p<0.05) compared to streptozotocin-intoxicated animals. Histological examination revealed the nutraceutical impact of selected herbal plants due to enhancing impact on the size and the number of β-cells in the pancreas. Findings of current research work explore the antidiabetic capacity of selected nutraceutical and medicinal plants.

Effects of temperature and pressure on volatile compounds of black cumin seeds (Nigella sativa L.) oil extracted by supercritical carbon dioxide

AbstractThis study investigated the effects of temperature and pressure on the yield and volatile compound contents of black cumin seed oil (BCO) extracted from black cumin seeds using supercritical carbon dioxide (SCCO2). The solubility of BCO in SCCO2 increased 2.5‐fold as the pressure increased by 10 MPa. Major volatile compounds in BCO were identified using a static headspace gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (SH–GC–MS). Evidence indicated the main volatile components in SCCO2‐extracted BCO to be hexanal, p‐cymene, and thymoquinone. BCO extracted from China‐cultivated black cumin seed contained similar amounts of p‐cymene and thymoquinone. This black cumin seed is classified as the cymene/thymoquinone chemotype and is also found in Indian, Iranian, and Algerian black cumin seeds. Thymoquinone contents in BCO were more sensitive to the extraction temperature than hexanal and p‐cymene contents. The maximum oil yield of 36.28 ± 1.38 wt%, with approximately 2.0 mg of thymoquinone per milliliter of oil, was obtained at extraction temperatures of 50°C and pressures of 30 MPa. A SH–GC–MS could detect small molecules in black cumin seed oil such as hexanal. The results of this work reveal that temperature has more impact on the selectivity of volatile compounds than pressure in supercritical carbon dioxide extraction.

Nutritional profile and physicochemical analysis of two indigenous cultivars of black cumin (Nigella sativa) seeds and oil in Bangladesh

The black cumin (Nigella sativa) seed oil has a long history of use for food ingredients. The goal of this study is to figure out the nutritional and physicochemical properties of two indigenous black cumin cultivars (locally known as "Kali Jira" and "Kalonji") seed and oil. Additionally, the effects of extraction time and particle size on oil yield generation was investigated. The values of moisture content, crude protein content, crude fat, crude fiber, total ash, and carbohydrate of Kali Jira seed were 5.29%, 19.83%, 41.3%, 18.96%, 5.10%, and 9.52% whereas Kalonji had 5.43%, 19.95%, 40.3%, 14.28%, 4.35%, and 14.69%, respectively. In the Kali Jira and Kalonji types, the mineral analysis revealed significant potassium levels (829.11 mg/100 g, 746.27 mg/100 g), followed by phosphorus, calcium, sodium, iron and zinc. The minimum oil yield was 46.77% in the Kalonji variety compared to Kali Jira, which had 49.57% after the extraction time of 2 hrs for 1.4-2.5 mm particle size. On the other hand, a maximum oil yield of 91.08% and 94.77% was found in Kalonji seed and Kali Jira seed, respectively, following a 6-hour extraction time for 0.25-0.5 mm particle size. Characterization of extracted seed oil (iodine value, saponification value, and acid value) indicated the abundance of unsaturation in oil. FTIR analysis was used to investigate functional groups. According to the findings of this study, black cumin and extracted oil are rich in nutrients and can be used to treat lifestyle problems.

Acute toxicity testing of a mixture of ethanol extracts of ginger rhizome (Zingiber officinale Rosc.), lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus (DC.) Stapf.), turmeric (Curcuma longa L.), and habbatussauda seeds (Nigella sativa L.) on the anatomy of mice

Abstract Immunostimulators are a collection of certain substances that are used to improve the immune system, especially when the body is sick. The use of herbs as immunostimulators is an option because it has been proven to be relatively safer if consumed correctly and appropriately. Four types of plants that are thought to have benefits as immunostimulators and have been used by some Indonesian people for generations are ginger, lemongrass, turmeric and habbatussauda. This study aims to determine the toxicity effects of a mixture of ethanol extracts based on observations of toxic symptoms, anatomical changes in mice (Mus musculus L.) and determine the level of toxicity through calculating the LD50. This research was experimental using 30 male mice divided into 6 treatments and 5 replications. Treatment consisted of control, mixed extracts of ginger, lemongrass, turmeric and black seed at doses of 1000 mg/kgBB, 2000 mg/kgBB, 3000 mg/kgBB, 4000 mg/kgBB and 5000 mg/kgBB given orally. The results showed that the ethanol extract of a mixture of ginger, lemongrass, turmeric and black seed had no significant effect on the average weight of the lungs, liver, heart and spleen. But it has a significant effect on the average weight of the kidney. The results of this study also showed changes in the mice’s body weight after 14 days of administration of the extract which tended to increase. The results of the research showed that no deaths occurred in the test animals so it was declared with a pseudo LD50 and was included in the practically non-toxic category so that the mixture of ginger, lemongrass, turmeric and black cumin was safe to use.

After The COVID-19 Pandemic, Nurses' Attitudes Toward The Use Of Herbs For Seasonal Influenza in Türkiye

Objective: This study aims to examine the attitude of nurses toward the use of herbal therapies for seasonal influenza after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This descriptive study was completed with 153 nurses working in shifts at the university hospital. This study was conducted between April 1, 2023, and May 1, 2023. The data were collected in the form of an online questionnaire with the "Introductory Information Form" prepared by the researchers in line with the literature, and the "Attitudes Towards Using Complementary Therapies Scale". Results: The mean age of the participants was 31.84±6.32 years. Among the nurses who participated in the study, 58.2% stated that they had COVID-19 disease in the previous years (2019–2022), and 41.8% had seasonal flu this year (2023). The majority of nurses (91.5%) reported knowing herbal methods, and 39.2% reported using social media as a source of herbal method information. Demographic factors did not significantly affect COVID-19 and seasonal influenza status, herbal treatment knowledge or use. However, gender, education and marital status played a role in participation in herbal treatment. Conclusion: In this study, it was found that nurses who experienced seasonal influenza after the COVID-19 pandemic had positive attitudes toward the use of herbal treatment during influenza. The most frequently used methods for herbal treatment include herbal teas, the use of herbal oils, and mixtures. In the study, it was found that nurses used rosemary tea, chamomile oil, and black cumin honey mixtures the most, respectively.

The Potential of Black Cumin (Nigella sativa) as an Immunostimulant in Aquaculture (Review)

Research on the use of black cumin (Nigella sativa) as an immunostimulant in aquaculture has shown interesting potential. In this review, we explore the potential of black cumin as an immunostimulant in aquatic animals. Based on a recent literature review, we highlight the positive effects of black cumin extract in enhancing immune responses in aquatic organisms. The active compounds in black cumin, such as thymoquinone and α-hederin, are thought to have the ability to stimulate the immune system, increase cytokine production, and increase phagocytic activity. Implications of using black cumin in aquaculture include the potential to improve the health and productivity of aquatic animals. However, challenges such as dose optimization, effectiveness in various aquatic species, and environmental risk management need to be addressed. Suggestions for further research include more in-depth studies of the mechanism of action, clinical trials on various aquatic species, as well as environmental impact assessments. With a careful and coordinated approach, the use of black cumin as an immunostimulant has the potential to increase sustainability and productivity in aquaculture practices.

Endothelial Function Responses to Nigella sativa (Black Seed) Supplementation: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials.

Nigella sativa (NS), commonly known as black cumin or black seed, is a medicinal plant with a rich history of traditional use in various cultures. Recent research has shed light on its potential therapeutic properties, particularly its effects on endothelial markers involved in inflammatory processes. This systematic review and meta-analysis evaluated the endothelial function responses, including intercellular adhesion molecule (ICAM) and vascular cell adhesion molecule (VCAM), to NS supplementation. We systematically searched Medline via PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Embase databases from inception until August 5, 2023. Comparative randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were included. Pairwise meta-analysis was conducted using RevMan version 5.4 for Windows. Pooled data were reported as mean difference (MD), with their 95% confidence interval (CI). The present meta-analysis included three RCTs, which included 146 patients. The pooled random-effect size showed no difference between the NS group and the control group in terms of ICAM (MD = -59.32, 95% CI: -137.18 to 18.54; p = 0.14) and VCAM (MD = -200.1, 95% CI: -429.9 to 29.69; p = 0.09). The pooled data were severely heterogeneous.In conclusion, NS supplementation does not have a significant impact on the endothelial function of patients with CVD or the risks of CVD. Further comparative RCTs with larger sample sizes and more diverse populations are needed to establish the efficacy and safety of NS in different clinical settings.

The Influence of Micronization on the Properties of Black Cumin Pressing Waste Material.

The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of micronization on the characteristics of black cumin pressing waste material. The basic composition, amino acid, and fatty acid content of the raw material-specifically, black cumin pressing waste material-were determined. The samples were micronized in a planetary ball mill for periods ranging from 0 to 20 min. The particle sizes of micronized samples of black cumin pressing waste material were then examined using a laser analyzer, the Mastersizer 3000. The structures of the produced micronized powders was examined by X-ray diffraction. Additionally, the FTIR (Fourier-transform infrared) spectra of the micronized samples were recorded. The measurement of phenolic and antiradical properties was conducted both before and after in vitro digestion, and the evaluation of protein digestibility and trypsin inhibition was also conducted. The test results, including material properties, suggest that micronization for 10 min dramatically reduced particle diameters (d50) from 374.7 to 88.7 µm, whereas after 20 min, d50 decreased to only 64.5 µm. The results obtained using FTIR spectroscopy revealed alterations, especially in terms of intensity and, to a lesser extent, the shapes of the bands, indicating a significant impact on the molecular properties of the tested samples. X-ray diffraction profiles revealed that the internal structures of all powders are amorphous, and micronization methods have no effect on the internal structures of powders derived from black cumin pressing waste. Biochemical analyses revealed the viability of utilizing micronized powders from black cumin pressing waste materials as beneficial food additives, since micronization increased total phenolic extraction and antiradical activity.

Genetic Variability of Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.) under Climatic Condition of Prayagraj

An Experiment on Black cumin was conducted during September to March 2023-2024, in horticulture Research field, Department of Horticulture, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, and Technology &amp; Sciences Prayagraj(UP) India. The results of the investigation, regarding the performance of the 7 variety of black cumin i.e. NS-44, NS-32, Ajmer Nigella-1, Ajmer Nigella-20, Azad kalonji, Local variety -1, Local variety- 2 obtained from different sources to find out the best performance in terms of growth and yield in Prayagraj agro-climatic conditions. The experiment was conducted in Randomized Block design, were each variety replicated thrice the results from the present investigation concluded that black cumin genotype Azad kalonji was recorded with maximum number of flowers/plant (78.33), Seed/ capsule (93.67), Seed yield (1.85 t/ha) and with maximum gross return, net return and cost Benefit Ratio of (3.75) which was found to be more productive and economically viable.

Assessment of fungal species in some spices using molecular study with detection of their mycotoxins using chromatography analysis.

Spices are food flavouring agents that are highly used in Iraq. However, they may be contaminated by toxicogenic fungi and subsequent production of mycotoxins. The aim of this study was to investigate the contamination of commonly used spices with fungi using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assay and to detect fungal mycotoxin using high-performance liquid chromatography. Thirty-five spices (seven samples from each black pepper, red pepper, turmeric, cumin and ginger) were cultured on an appropriate medium to identify various fungi species. Later on, the toxigenicity of Aspergillus flavus and Aspergillus niger was determined using a PCR assay. The fungal mycotoxins, including aflatoxins and ochratoxins, were then determined through a high-performance liquid chromatography using the validated Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, and Safe (QuECHERS) method. Aspergillus species were the predominantly isolated fungi, followed by Penicillium and Fusarium. The PCR results indicate the high toxigenicity of A. flavus as 85.7% of the strains had aflQ/aflR genes and 79% had PKS15KS/PKS15C-MeT genes. Regarding mycotoxin contamination in spices, the highest rates of aflatoxins and ochratoxins were found in black pepper (5.913 μg/kg) and red chilli (6.9055 μg/kg), respectively. Spices are susceptible substrates for the growth of mycotoxigenic fungi. Thus, regular effective surveillance and quality control procedures are highly recommended.

Potential use of crop water stress index (CWSI) and spectral vegetation indices for black cumin under deficit irrigation

This study was carried out in 2022 to examine the yield, yield components and changes in crop water stress index (CWSI) and vegetation index in black cumin with deficit irrigation. Five different irrigation water levels (I0, I25, I50, I75, I100) were used. The amount of irrigation water applied changed between 20 and 276 mm. Plant water consumption (ET) values varied between 182 and 425 mm. The highest seed yields were obtained from I100 treatments (692 t ha−1) and the lowest from I0 treatments (25 t ha−1). Biological yield, plant height, stem diameter, first capsule height, number of capsules per plant, number of branches per plant, number of seeds per capsule and 1000-seed weight of black cumin were affected by deficit irrigation. CWSI lower limit equation to be used in irrigation scheduling was identified Tc−Ta = − 1.7524 × VPD + 0.7698 (R2 = 0.54) and the upper limit 10.9 ℃. For black cumin plants, irrigation is recommended when the CWSI value is between 0.08 and 0.12. 9 different spectral vegetation indices were evaluated in this study. It has been determined that there are significant correlations between yield, yield components and CWSI and spectral vegetation indices.