Black Seed as Herbal Medicine

Also called Nigella Sativa, black seed helps control diabetes. You should take 6 teaspoons of black seed oil tree times a day with plenty of water. Black seed has been used as a therapy for diabetes for centuries.

The seeds of the annual flowering plant, Nigella Sativa, have been prized for their healing properties since time immemorial. While frequently referred to among English-speaking cultures as Roman coriander, black sesame, black cumin, black caraway and onion seed, it is known today primarily as black seed, which is at the very least an accurate description of its physical appearance. The earliest record of its cultivation and use come from ancient Egypt.

Black seed oil, in fact, was found in Egyptian pharoah Tutankhamun's tomb, dating back to approximately 3,300 years ago. In Arabic cultures, black cumin is known as Habbatul barakah, meaning the "seed of blessing." It is also believed that the Islamic prophet Mohammed said of it that it is "a remedy for all diseases except death."

Benefits of Black Seed

Analgesic (Pain-Killing)
Anti-Bacterial
Anti-Inflammatory
Anti-Ulcer
Anti-Cholinergic
Anti-Fungal
Ant-Hypertensive
Antioxidant
Antispasmodic
Antiviral
Bronchodilator
Gluconeogenesis Inhibitor (Anti-Diabetic)
Hepatoprotective (Liver Protecting)
Hypotensive
Insulin Sensitizing
Interferon Inducer
Leukotriene Antagonist
Renoprotective (Kidney Protecting)
Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Inhibitor


Black seed has been researched for very specific health conditions. Some of the most compelling applications include:

Type 2 Diabetes: Two grams of black seed a day resulted in reduced fasting glucose, decreased insulin resistance, increased beta-cell function, and reduced glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) in human subjects.[ii]
Helicobacter Pylori Infection: Black seeds possess clinically useful anti-H. pylori activity, comparable to triple eradication therapy.[iii]
Epilepsy: Black seeds were traditionally known to have anticonvulsive properties. A 2007 study with epileptic children, whose condition was refractory to conventional drug treatment, found that a water extract significantly reduced seizure activity.[iv]
High Blood pressure: The daily use of 100 and 200 mg of black seed extract, twice daily, for 2 months, was found to have a blood pressure-lowering effect in patients with mild hypertension.[v]
Asthma: Thymoquinone, one of the main active constituents within Nigella sativa (black cumin), is superior to the drug fluticasone in an animal model of asthma.[vi] Another study, this time in human subjects, found that boiled water extracts of black seed have relatively potent anti-asthmatic effect on asthmatic airways.[vii]
Acute tonsillopharyngitis: characterized by tonsil or pharyngeal inflammation (i.e. sore throat), mostly viral in origin, black seed capsules (in combination with Phyllanthus niruri) have been found to significantly alleviate throat pain, and reduce the need for pain-killers, in human subjects.[viii]
Chemical Weapons Injury: A randomized, placebo-controlled human study of chemical weapons injured patients found that boiled water extracts of black seed reduced respiratory symptoms, chest wheezing, and pulmonary function test values, as well as reduced the need for drug treatment.[ix]
Colon Cancer: Cell studies have found that black seed extract compares favorably to the chemoagent 5-fluoruracil in the suppression of colon cancer growth, but with a far higher safety profile.[x] Animal research has found that black seed oil has significant inhibitory effects against colon cancer in rats, without observable side effects.[xi]
MRSA: Black seed has anti-bacterial activity against clinical isolates of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus.[xii]
Opiate Addiction/Withdrawal: A study on 35 opiate addicts found black seed as an effective therapy in long-term treatment of opioid dependence.

Parts Used: seeds
Energy and Flavors: Hot energy, spicy flavor
Systems Affected: Lungs, Stomach, spleen
Biochemical Constituents: Alanine, arginine, ascorbic-acid, asparagine, campesterol, carvone, cymene, cystine, dehydroascorbic-acid, eicosadienoic-acid, glucose, glutamic-acid, glycine, iron, isoleucine, leucine, d-limonene, linoleic-acid, linolenic-acid, lipase, lysine, methionine, myristic-acid, nigellin, nigellone, oleic-acid, palmitic-acid, phenylalanine, phytosterols, potassium, beta-sitosterol, alpha-spinasterol, stearic-acid, stigmasterol, tannin, threonine, thymohydroquinone, thymoquinone, tryptophan, tyrosine
Properties: Stimulant, aromatic, carminative, digestive, diuretic, emmenagogue, excitant, galactatagogue, purgative, resolvent, stimulant, stomachic, sudorific, tonic, and vermifuge

In Algeria, the roasted seeds are combined with butter for cough and honey and taken for colic.

Externally the seeds can be ground to a powder, mixed with a little flour as a binder and applied directly to abscesses, on the forehead for headache, nasal ulcers, orchitis, and rheumatism. The seeds also are a rich source of sterols, especially beta-sitosterol, which is known to have anticarcinogenic activity. This substantiates its folk use for indurations and/or tumors of the abdomen, eyes and liver.

In India, Nigella seeds are combined with various purgatives to allay gripping and colic and also help kill and expel parasites. Middle Eastern Unani medicine affirms its abortifacient properties and also use it as a diuretic to relieve ascites, for coughs, eye-sores, hydrophobia, jaundice, paralysis, piles and tertian fever.

Contraindications: Do not take during pregnancy.

Fig Leaves as Natural Remedies for Diabetes

This herbal nutrient is also good for high blood pressure, bronchitis, and skin problems. Most of the tinctures come from the sap or milk of tree leaves. Natural advocates recommend using this regularly to cure diabetes.

Fresh or dried fig fruit is LIKELY SAFE for most people when used in food amounts.

Fig LEAF is POSSIBLY SAFE for most people when taken by mouth for up to one month as a medicine. However, in high doses, fig LATEX, the sap from the tree, might cause bleeding in the digestive tract in some people.

Applying fig leaf to the skin is POSSIBLY UNSAFE. It can cause skin to become extra sensitive to the sun. Avoid prolonged sun exposure when applying fig LEAF to the skin. Wear sunblock outside, especially if you are light-skinned. Fig FRUIT is unlikely to cause sun sensitivity.

Skin contact with fig fruit or leaves can cause rash in sensitive people.

Special Precautions & Warnings:
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Fresh or dried fig fruit is LIKELY SAFE in amounts found in food, but there’s not enough information to know if it’s safe in the larger amounts that are used as medicine.

Allergies. People who are sensitive to mulberry, natural rubber latex, or weeping fig might have allergic reactions to fig.

Diabetes. Fig might lower blood sugar. If you take fig by mouth and you have diabetes, monitor your blood sugar levels closely.

Surgery: Fig might lower blood sugar levels. There is some concern that it might interfere with blood sugar control during and after surgery. Stop using fig as medicine at least 2 weeks before a scheduled surgery.

Insulin interacts with FIG
Fig leaf might decrease blood sugar. Insulin is also used to decrease blood sugar. Taking fig leaf along with insulin might cause your blood sugar to be too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely. The dose of your insulin might need to be changed.

Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs) interacts with FIG
Fig leaf supplements seem to lower blood sugar in people with diabetes. Diabetes medications are also used to lower blood sugar. Taking fig leaf along with diabetes medications might cause your blood sugar to go too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely. The dose of your diabetes medication might need to be changed.Some medications used for diabetes include glimepiride (Amaryl), glyburide (DiaBeta, Glynase PresTab, Micronase), insulin, pioglitazone (Actos), rosiglitazone (Avandia), chlorpropamide (Diabinese), glipizide (Glucotrol), tolbutamide (Orinase), and others.

Fenugreek as Natural Remedies for Diabetes

Fenugreek spice commonly is sold as the dried ripe seed. Also known as methi, fenugreek is an annual that is native to Asia and southeastern Europe.

The European herb fenugreek has been used for centuries as a cooking spice and has been used in folk medicine for almost as long. The herb has been used in folk medicine in the treatment of boils, diabetes, cellulitis, and tuberculosis. Extracts of the seeds are used to flavor maple syrup substitutes. Fenugreek also has been used as an insect repellent. The seeds are rich in protein and the plant is grown as an animal forage. Following commercial extraction of diosgenin (which is used as a natural precursor in commercial steroid synthesis), the nitrogen and potassium-rich seed residue is used as an agricultural fertilizer.

Cholesterol-lowering effects
Clinical data from very small studies suggest the use of fenugreek for cholesterol lowering. Further studies are necessary to determine the full benefits of fenugreek to reduce cholesterol.

Glucose-lowering effects
Glycemic control was improved in a small study of patients with mild type-2 diabetes mellitus. Since patients receiving the fenugreek were also allowed to receive their other diabetic medications, caution is advised in the interpretation of these results.

Pregnancy/nursing
Avoid use in pregnancy as fenugreek has documented uterine stimulant effects. It has been used to stimulate milk production in nursing mothers. Excretion into milk has not been studied.

Interactions
The effects of anticoagulant drugs such as warfarin may be potentiated. Patients taking anticoagulants should consult their health care provider before taking fenugreek; dosing adjustments may be necessary.

Side Effects
Dyspepsia and mild abdominal distention have been reported in studies using large doses of the seeds. Culinary quantities are essentially devoid of adverse effects. However, a case of hypersensitivity to fenugreek in curry powder has been reported.

Toxicities
The acute toxicity from a large dose of fenugreek has not been characterized. Hypoglycemia is a potential danger.

Bitter Melon as Natural Remedies for Diabetes

Bitter melon, also called bitter apple, bitter gourd or bitter cucumber, is a vine-grown vegetable that can range in color from dark green to white and can grow between three to twelve inches tall. Diabetes Health reports that several compounds in bitter melon may have glucose-lowering properties and they include polypeptide P, vicine, and momordin and charantin, which are glycosides. The juice and pulp can be eaten and an injectable compound made from this vegetable has also been tested. There's no traditional dose established for bitter melon. You should always consult your doctor before using bitter melon as a supplement to help control diabetes.

The easiest way to consume bitter melon is by adding it to a stir-fry. Add several slices to your favorite vegetables and cook quickly over high heat. The taste of bitter melon is very bitter, so you may consider also adding sweeter vegetables such as onions, baby corn or green bell pepper.

Medicinal plants named in honor of Pope Francis

Scientists from the University of Santo Tomas Graduate School and the College of Science discovered a new plant species in Mt. Madia-as, Antique that has the potential to treat cancer, fever, malaria, and rheumatism.

Dr. Grecebio Alejandro of the UST Graduate School and the Research Cluster for the Natural and Applied Sciences named the plant Hedyotis papafranciscoi Alejandro, sp. nov. in honor of Pope Francis.

The UST College of Science discovered two other newly-characterized organisms: the Phyllostica francisci, sp. nov., a fungal endophyte that could be used in studies about drugs, and vBE-popefrancis, a bacteriophage isolate that has the potential as an alternative to conventional therapy for bacterial infections.

According to a press release sent to GMA News Online, the plants will be featured in a papal exhibit until March 28 at the UST Main Building lobby that will be showcasing new plants species, organisms, and bacteria discovered by UST faculty members and students. A paper about Hedyotis papafranciscoi Alejandro, sp.nov was published in the Antoninus Journal.

Researchers are Thomasian scientists Dr. Thomas Edison de la Cruz, Carlo Chris Apurillo, Donna May Papa, Paola Bianca Buiser, and Delia Ontengco.


From: http://www.gmanetwork.com

FOODS WITH SUPERPOWERS

BANANAS
Bananas contain potassium which helps boost immune function, lower blood pressure, and improve your mood. According to Food Matters, "bananas help overcome depression due to high levels of tryptophan, which is converted into serotonin – the happy-mood brain neurotransmitter.” They also explain: “Eat two bananas before a strenuous workout to pack an energy punch and sustain your blood sugar.”




GINGER
Are you in pain? Just eat some ginger. Ginger helps reduce pain, decrease inflammation and inhibit bacteria such as protozoa and Salmonella. It has also been proven to prevent nausea; and in some cases it relieves seasickness and motion sickness.




EGGS
If you are looking for a great source of protein, look no further than eggs. They are loaded with nutrients such as Vitamin A, Vitamin B12, Phosphorus and Selenium. They also help improve your vision; the yolk has been proven to slow the process of age-related macular degeneration.




PINEAPPLES
Pineapples are not only great for your health but they are the perfect low calorie snack. Pineapples are cholesterol-free, fat-free and low in sodium. Research has proven that pineapples support the immune system, strengthen bones, help reduce the risk of macular degeneration and aid in digestion.




CARROTS
Carrots contain a large amount of vitamin A and the antioxidant lutein, both beneficial to eye sight. They help prevent cataracts, macular degeneration and corneal ulcers. Along with improved vision, carrots have also proven to reduce the risk for cancer and cardiovascular disease. According to Medical News Today, “a variety of dietary carotenoids have been shown to have anti-cancer effects due to their antioxidant power in reducing free radicals in the body.”




COCONUT OIL
Coconut oil is simply magic, its benefits are endless. Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), a unique form of saturated fats that have been proven to have positive health effects. It has been used as a natural remedy for beauty; it is one of the world’s most weight-loss friendly fats; it helps improve digestion, increase energy, improve blood cholesterol levels, slow down aging, and strengthen the immune system.




ORANGES
It is highly recommended to eat one orange every day. According to Medical News Today, “an orange has over 170 different phytochemicals and more than 60 flavonoids, many of which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties and strong antioxidant effects.” They also help lower blood pressure and support overall heart health.




ALMONDS
For a healthy snack, eat a handful of almonds. They are loaded with nutrients, some of which include fiber, protein, and magnesium. Almonds contain antioxidants that help protect you against oxidative stress. They also help lower cholesterol levels, reduce hunger and aid in weight loss.




WHOLE GRAINS
Swap out white bread for whole wheat bread instead. Whole grains are loaded with nutrients. They are high in fiber, protein and rich in antioxidants. According to WebMD, “A diet rich in whole grains has been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and some forms of cancer.” They also explain that whole-grain diets help maintain regular bowel movements and promote growth of healthy bacteria in the colon.”




SPINACH
Popeye was right; spinach is definitely a superfood (that made him super strong). Spinach has shown to help lower the risk of cancer, improve bone health, lower blood pressure and prevent the development of asthma. In a recent study on the relationship between the risk of prostate cancer and vegetable intake, spinach showed evidence of protection against the occurrence of aggressive prostate cancer.




CHERRIES
Cherries contain the highest antioxidant level of any fruit. Dr. Mercola explains that “sweet cherries also contain a small amount of quercetin, which is among the most potent in terms of antioxidant activity and a wide range of other health-promoting properties.” They have been proven to fight inflammation, protect against Alzheimer’s disease, help cure insomnia, decrease belly fat, reduce muscle pain, and help prevent colon cancer.




SALMON
For a great source of vitamins, eat salmon. It has been proven to increase cardiovascular health, help prevent cell damage, prevent macular degeneration, and reduce the risk of depression. Salmon also contains omega-3 fatty acids which have been shown to help improve memory.




KALE
Adding kale to your diet will do wonders for your health. It’s full of powerful antioxidants and is high in vitamin K and iron. According to research, “one cup of kale is filled with 10% of the RDA of omega-3 fatty acids, which help, fight against arthritis, asthma and autoimmune disorders.”




CHILI PEPPERS
Add some spice to your plate with Chili peppers. They have a high level of vitamins and minerals. According to research, “scientific studies on experimental mammals suggest that capsaicin has anti-bacterial, anti-carcinogenic, analgesic and anti-diabetic properties. It also found to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol levels in obese people (Medical-disclaimer).”




CINNAMON
Cinnamon is a common ingredient that has been used throughout history. It is loaded with antioxidants, helps the body fight infections and may even cut the risk of heart disease. Studies have also shown that “cinnamon oil has been shown to effectively treat respiratory tract infections caused by fungi.”




CHIA SEEDS
Chia seeds have been commonly used to help enhance weight loss. They contain a large amount of nutrients and a small amount of calories. Some of the nutrients they contain include protein, fiber, phosphorus, calcium and magnesium. “In two studies, a diet with chia seeds, soy protein, oats and nopal, has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, increase HDL cholesterol and reduce inflammation (Authority Nutrition).”




OYSTERS
Oysters have been proven to help increase energy. They contain a large amount of protein, vitamins and minerals. Some of these include, zinc, iron and vitamins C and B12. Oysters also provide you with high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, which have been known to help fight cancer symptoms and have incredible anti-aging effects on the brain’s structure and functionality.




BEANS
Beans provide incredible health benefits. Studies have shown that people who consume beans have a lower risk of heart disease. They also help regulate blood sugar, lower cholesterol levels and help with weight loss. According to Reader’s Digest, “beans contain a wide range of cancer-fighting plant chemicals, specifically, isoflavones and phytosterols which are associated with reduced cancer risk.”




ONIONS
Okay, so they give you bad breath. But did you know onions contain cancer-fighting enzymes? According to research, “onion consumption has been shown to help lower the risk of prostate and esophageal cancers and has also been linked to reduced mortality from coronary heart disease.” They also have been proven to help fight cold and flu symptoms.




SUNFLOWER SEEDS
Sunflower seeds are very rich in vitamin E, fiber, protein and iron. They help fight heart disease, reduce muscle cramps, help prevent cancer and balance blood sugar levels. They also have a powerful effect on the skin. Dr. Axe explains that “sunflower seeds contain Vitamin E in addition to essential fatty acid lipids that help keep skin hydrated and free from sun and pollution damage.”




BLUEBERRIES
They may be small but they are packed with a large amount of antioxidants and phytoflavinoids. Some of the biggest health benefits you can get from eating blueberries include reduced blood pressure, possible prevention of heart disease, reduced muscle damage and improved memory.




BROCCOLI
Eat a little broccoli every day for incredible health benefits. According to research, broccoli’s phytochemicals fight cancer by neutralizing carcinogens and increasing their elimination from the body. Broccoli is also a great source for fibre and contains a variety of vitamins, some of which include vitamin B6, pantothenic acid, vitamin E, vitamin A and potassium.




PUMPKIN
On the go? Grab a handful of pumpkin seeds. They will provide you with the nutrients you need to kick start your day. Pumpkin seeds help improve vision, lower blood pressure, fight insomnia and protect your heart.




SHITAKE MUSHROOMS
Eat them raw, cooked or dried. Either way you will receive a number of health benefits. If you are trying to lose weight, shitake mushrooms provide you with a great amount of fibre and help you feel fuller for longer. Other vitamins and minerals they provide include magnesium, b-complex vitamins and potassium.




STRAWBERRIES
Not only are they juicy and delicious, but they are packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Strawberries have been proven to boost immunity, improve eye health, regulate blood pressure, fight wrinkles, and reduce inflammation.


From: http://www.msn.com/

Plants that makes you smarter

SAGE
Recent studies indicate that taking sage oil can enhance and improve memory performance. To inject more sage into your life, try it in tea, add to pasta or even chew on a few raw leaves – it’s also an instant breath freshener.




BROCCOLI
This veggie is loaded with Vitamin K which is known for strengthening cognitive abilities. Like egg yolks, broccoli also contains choline, which has been found to strengthen our memory.




STRAWBERRIES
A study published in 2012 found that greater intakes of strawberries were associated with slower rates of cognitive decline in older adults. This is because berries are loaded with flavonoids, an antioxidant that may have memory and mood-enhancing properties.




BLUEBERRIES
According to a 2012 study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry, these tiny berries pack a big punch, containing chemical compounds thought to improve memory, learning, decision making, reasoning skills and verbal comprehension.




SPINACH
Popeye might have eaten it for strength but you should be eating spinach for its brain-boosting qualities. Several studies suggest that spinach may help protect against age-related problems and cognitive deficits. A study at the Harvard Medical School followed 13,000 women for 25 years and found that increased vegetable intake, including spinach consumption, was associated with reduced cognitive decline and the lowered brain age by one to two years.




WALNUTS
While many nuts are supposed to be good for your noggin, walnuts are the real superheroes. Research conducted by the US Department of Agriculture’s Human Nutrition Research Center found the Omega-3 specific to walnuts acts as an antioxidant that can block signals produced by potentially brain-damaging free radicals.




APPLES
The old adage that an apple a day keeps the doctor away might just be true. These juicy fruits contain catechins, a type of antioxidant that may protect us from the brain-damaging chemicals found in everyday products.




PUMPKIN SEEDS
For something so small, pumpkin seeds do a lot of good. The seeds are jam packed with tryptophan, an amino acid needed to create serotonin, which is a key component of mood and brain health. Have a handful as an afternoon snack or throw some in your salad.




TOMATOES
Studies have found evidence to suggest that lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes, could help protect against the kind of free radical damage to cells which occurs in the development of dementia, particularly Alzheimer's.




KELP
Kelp, or seaweed, has high levels of the brain-boosting chemical iodine. Because the body does not make iodine, which is necessary for normal growth and development of the brain and body, it needs to come from your diet. Thankfully kelp is the most abundant, iodine-rich sea vegetable so it’s time to load up on it. Not convinced? Research has found that severe iodine deficiency has caused mental impairment, stunted growth and learning problems in children so stock up!




AVOCADO
Delicious and good for the brain – what a winning combo. Research shows avocado’s high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids help keep nerve cells in the brain healthy. Each serving of avocado also has 20 different vitamins, but don’t go overboard; you only need to add half of one avocado to one daily meal to get results.




BRUSSELS SPROUTS
They might not be your favorite veggie but it’s worth loading up your dinner plate with these brain boosters. Scientists have proved that sprouts are packed with molecules that our bodies convert into diindolymethane, an immune-system booster that helps protect new brain cells. Still not appetizing? You can always cover them in cheese sauce.




GARLIC
While raw garlic is known to help strengthen the cardiovascular system, aged garlic extract has been shown to protect the brain against function loss. A study in The Journal of Nutrition, Health and Aging showed compelling evidence of garlic as an alternative treatment for Alzheimer’s disease.




From: http://www.msn.com/