Blackberry seeds - description, use, properties

The black seedling, also known as black cumin, belongs to the buttercup family. It originates from Turkey and Iraq, but is now cultivated in many countries around the world, including Poland. The stems of the black seedling are branched and reach a height of 20 to 40 cm, and its relatively large flowers bloom singly at the tips of the stems. The fruits of the black seedling consist of 5 to 10 carpels, in which are found angular, black seeds with a strong aroma and pungent taste. The black seedling is an annual plant that requires a sunny location and a fertile, moist soil. The black seedling is also known as the "gold of the pharaohs", as legends say that a small bottle of oil from the black seedling was found in the tomb of Tutankhamun. It has been used for both medicinal and cosmetic purposes since ancient times.

In 100 g of black seed, we find 400 kcal, 33 g of fat, 16 g of protein, 50 g of carbohydrates, and 0.5 g of fiber. Black seed is also a very good source of many vitamins and minerals, such as sodium – 88 mg; potassium – 1694 mg; iron – 18.5 mg; magnesium – 385 mg; calcium – 12 mg; vitamin A – 135 IU; ascorbic acid – 21 mg; vitamin B6 – 0.5 mg. Black seed contains about 100 active chemical compounds, including linoleic acid – 60%, oleic acid – about 25%, alpha-linolenic acid – about 1%, and the rarely occurring eicosadienoic acid. They are also a source of chemical compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antifungal, antibacterial, and anticarcinogenic properties.

Black pepper, in both its raw form and in the form of oil, has numerous therapeutic properties, including: – It has a jaundice effect; – It acts as a diuretic; – It improves resistance to stress and depression, which can have a positive impact on the nervous system; – It is a bacterial, fungicidal, and virus-killing agent; – It is an anti-pain and antiflammatic agent; – It can boost the function of the immune system; – It relaxes smooth muscles; – It increases the mineral density of bones, thereby protecting against osteoporosis; – It is helpful in the treatment of autoimmune diseases; – It promotes milk production in nursing mothers; – It helps in the treatment of skin conditions such as acne, psoriasis, rashes, skin inflammation, sunburn, etc.; – It has an anticancer effect, as it is a strong antioxidant; – It helps to alleviate allergy symptoms; – It is also an excellent remedy for hair problems, inhibits hair loss, promotes growth, and helps in the fight against dandruff; – It is helpful for people with asthma; – Regular use of black pepper oil raises the hemoglobin level and the number of red blood cells, thereby preventing anemia; – It alleviates the symptoms of acid reflux; – It prevents the formation of kidney stones by effectively lowering the oxalate level in urine; – It protects against an increase in homocysteine and thus prevents the development of atherosclerosis; – It has an anti-parasitic effect; – It helps in the fight against hypertension by lowering blood pressure and reducing the likelihood of blood clots; – It improves digestion; – It protects the kidneys and liver from damage; – It helps to regulate menstruation; – It protects against the effects of radiation, which is particularly helpful for people undergoing cancer treatment; – It strengthens immunity; – It speeds up wound healing; – It helps to lower blood sugar levels and promotes the regeneration of the pancreas, making it recommended for diabetics.

Nigella sativa, also known as black cumin, is a plant that has been widely used since ancient times. Nowadays, it is applied both internally and externally, particularly for skin, hair, and nail care. Black cumin oil is a commonly available product, but the seeds themselves can also be consumed raw. The seeds of black cumin are used whole or ground, typically as a spice in Polish dishes such as sauerkraut and pickled cucumbers. Ground black cumin seeds are also often used as a substitute for pepper due to their intense flavor. This plant is also utilized for decorative purposes, while black cumin oil is used in the production of perfumes. For the treatment of skin problems, a decoction of black cumin can be helpful, prepared similarly to traditional black tea. Black cumin oil is often applied externally to skin or hair. Another practical option is to prepare a black cumin tincture, which is more effective against fungal infections than dry seeds. No side effects have been observed if taken in recommended daily doses.

Due to its own properties that relax the uterus, black seed should not be utilized by pregnant women, as its consumption may delay or inhibit uterine contractions. Furthermore, black seed exhibits a blood pressure-lowering effect, which means that its consumption is not recommended for individuals with low blood pressure.

There is a wide variety of essential oils available on store shelves, differing primarily in their quality. It is especially important to note whether the oil is in a dark, thick, hygienic bottle, as prevention also depends on its consumption. It's always important to choose oil from organic crops. Equally important is that only blackberry oils should be present in its composition, and the product should not contain the addition of other medicinal oils. It's also crucial to check if the oil is in a dark, wide, therapeutic bottle, as prevention depends on it. We know that preparing the oil ourselves allows us to control its composition. Diet-related diseases are becoming increasingly common. These conditions are the result of unbalanced diets and lack of physical activity. Therefore, they can be avoided by leading a healthy lifestyle. The most common diet-related diseases include type II diabetes, obesity, hypertension, atherosclerosis, certain types of cancer, intestinal inflammations, and allergies. These diseases require a change in dietary habits. The first step is usually the elimination of the problem's source through improving the diet, introducing physical activity, maintaining sleep hygiene, or reducing stress sources. In many cases, this is the only and sufficient therapeutic method. Unfortunately, in the case of diseases that have existed for a long time, it may be insufficient. In this case, the diet forms an excellent foundation for pharmacological treatment conducted by doctors. In a state of illness, the body's energy metabolism can change, and the demand for individual nutrients can increase or decrease. All these factors are taken into account when creating clinical diets, also known as therapeutic diets. The clinical diet is based on easily accessible, minimally processed foods, taking into account the seasonality of vegetables and fruits. We always take into account the preferences of the patient and the possibility of product exchange. We strive to adapt the dietary plans to the culinary skills, work time, and time for meal preparation to provide comfort to the users of the diet. The clinical diet is an excellent way to provide the body with energy and strength to fight the disease.