Black seed, also known as black cumin or black caraway, grows in the Mediterranean. Scientifically called Nigella sativa, this herb is not related to cumin, according to Purdue University Agriculture. Many websites claim near-miraculous health benefits for black seed, including prevention or treatment of early cataracts. No human studies on use of this herb for cataracts exist. Do not take any supplements, including black seed, without first discussing its use with your medical practitioner
Definition
The tomb of Egyptian Pharaoh Tutankhamun contained black cumin, so it was obviously prized by ancient civilizations. Some animal studies have shown potential benefit to black cumin's use as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory or anti-cancer treatment. Cataracts form as a result of proteins in the lens clumping together and occur most often as people age.
Studies
There's no scientific proof that the animal benefits found in black cumin could apply to cataract treatment or prevention. No studies specifically related to black cumin benefits on cataracts appear in literature on the herb. A large study into the benefits of antioxidants on several eye diseases called the Age-Related Eye Disease Study, found no benefit to using certain antioxidants to treat cataracts, according to The Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology. However, antioxidants may eventually have a role to play in treating cataracts caused by oxidation in the lens.
Caveats
When taken in large quantities, black cumin can induce abortion, according to a 2008 article published in "Cancer Therapy" by lead author Subhash Padhye of the Barbara Ann Karmanos Cancer Institute at Wayne State University School of Medicine. Pregnant women should not take this supplement. The herb appears safe when taken in moderate amounts by most people who are not pregnant. People with liver or kidney disease should not take this herb without first discussing its use with their doctor.
Dose
If your doctor approves its use, take no more than 50 to 75 mg per day, the Nutritional Supplement Bible suggests. AltMD suggests 1/2 tsp. to 1 tsp. per day of the black seed extract. There is no specific recommended dose for use in cataract treatment or prevention.
References
- Ultimate Fat Burner:Black Cumin Seeds
- Purdue University: Cumin
- PubMed: From Here to Eternity -- The Secret of Pharaohs: Therapeutic Potential of Black Cumin Seeds and Beyond; Subhash Padhye, et al; 2008
- x-tend life: Black Cumin
- National Eye Institute: Cataracts
- Nutritional Supplement Bible: Black Cumin
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