Health benefits of kalonji seeds

Black Seeds for Health Maintenance

Black seeds, in their natural form, assist the body in the healing process and may help people to deal with some illnesses. Generally they are of great importance for health maintenance. The positive effects are achieved without disturbing the overall balance. Black seeds have important medicinal and nutritional values which are helpful in relieving conditions and building resistance against any future ailments. Black seeds are rich in monosaccharides and non-starch polysaccharides so they are the great source of dietary fiber. What is more, there are fifteen different types of amino acids present in these seeds along with many essential fatty and unsaturated fats. Arginine, an amino acid, is another component of black seeds and its presence is beneficial for infants. Carotene, one more component of black seeds is important for prevention of cancer. Besides all the mentioned, black seeds additionally contain sufficient amounts of iron, calcium, potassium and sodium.

Black seeds are very efficient in enhancing the human immunity and, therefore, could play an important role in treating AIDS and cancer. A substance called Nigellone can be easily extracted from black seeds and used in treatment of bronchial asthma and allergic reactions triggered by histamine. Nigellone inhibits certain types of proteins that cause histamine to be released and it decreases the uptake of calcium in mast cells. Furthermore, black seeds can be used in treatment of certain types of cancer. Fatty acids efficiently inhibit the development of Ehrlich ascites carcinoma and Dalton’s lymphoma ascites. Black seeds can completely prevent the development of certain tumors.

The strong anti-tumor properties come from a potent agent called nigella sativa. Black seeds also have very strong antifungal and antibacterial properties that can even be compared to certain types of commonly used antibiotic medications such as gentamicin, ampicillin, cotrimoxazole, tetracycline and nalidixic acid. In some cases, black seeds are even more effective against various bacteria than the commonly used antibiotics and chemotherapeutic medications.

Black seeds have very powerful anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to relieve the symptoms of arthritis. The seeds prevent eicosanoid from being generated and provide antioxidant activity in the cells of the human body. Certain types of fatty acids found in black seeds contribute to the already mentioned activities as well. One more advantage of black seeds is an increase in the output of breast milk due to its richness of specific lipids and hormonal structures.And finally, black seeds have been used in homeopathy for the treatment of conditions of the digestive tract, diarrhea, vomiting and flatulent colic.

How can Zaatar Help in Health Maintenance

Zaatar is the term used for a family of herbs all of which originate from the Middle East. The very term zaatar also refers to a condiment that contains a mixture of different herbs which is added to many meals. For instance, the mixture may include dried thyme, oregano, marjoram and be additionally enhanced with toasted sesame seeds. What is more, the taste becomes richer when salt and other spices such as sumac are added. As for commercial form of zaatar, it additionally contains roasted flour. Zaatar, the very herb as well as the condiment is consumed on regular basis in different countries including Iran, Iraq, Armenia, Jordan, Lebanon, Tunisia, Turkey etc.

This mixture is considered special and many women in the Middle East prepare zaatar according to their own recipe which they are not willing to share with other people, not even their daughters or relatives. This is the reason why it is sometimes hard to determine all the potential ingredients zaatar can have.

There is a general belief that zaatar spice mixture is highly efficient against certain illnesses. It seems to keep the mind alert and preserve the strength of the entire body. Because of the mentioned many children are actually taught to eat zaatar sandwich in the morning, especially before exams. So, people are persuaded that by eating meals enriched with zaatar they will become smarter. Many herbalist recommend zaatar to people suffering from different illnesses. Some individuals may experience digestive difficulties when eating bread. This can be efficiently avoided with zaatar. As a matter of fact allergic reaction related to bread may be prevented and dealt with by consuming this spice mixture.

Furthermore, a combination of zaatar and boiling water sweetened with honey is beneficial for digestive issues and stomach problems. This combination can additionally eliminate unpleasant symptoms associated with whooping cough, catarrh and sore throat.The herb itself can be consumed in a form of tea. Such tea helps women suffering from menstrual cramps. Zaatar tea is also effective when it comes to excess phlegm.

Finally, zaatar may be of major importance for all individuals who are feeling drowsy or are depressed. The herb practically stimulates the brain, improves the mood and may also boost one's memory.Being familiar with all the benefits of both black seeds and zaatar may influence people to start using these herbs and experience all the positive effects they bring along. But as it is the case with any other herb or spice, it is best to be moderate in their consumption and of course to consult with a health care provider prior introducing these herbs into the diet.