NIGELLA SATIVA L.: AN OVERVIEW

Objective: Nigella sativa L. (Ranunculaceae) is an annual herbaceous plant indigenous to the Mediterranean region and Western Asia globally. It is cultivated in Türkiye, especially in Isparta, Burdur and Afyonkarahisar. While its seeds are known for their characteristic black color in many languages, in Türkiye, it is recognized as "çörek otu". Traditionally, its seeds have been utilized for addressing rheumatism, bronchitis, colds, asthma and inflammatory conditions, as well as to enhance milk production in lactating mothers, aid digestion, and combat parasitic infections. Meanwhile, its oil is applied to address skin issues like boils and eczema. Additionally, because of its pungent bitter flavor and fragrance, it serves as a seasoning in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisines. The purpose of this review is to undertake a thorough analysis of the literature concerning the scientific classification and morphology, traditional uses pharmacological effects and phytochemistry of the plant. Result and Discussion: Nigella seeds contain abundant carbohydrates, proteins, fat, essential amino acids, diverse minerals and vitamins. The seeds contain 30-40% fixed oil, with 50-60% of the fixed oil consisting of unsaturated fatty acids such as oleic acid and linoleic acid. The seeds furthermore contain 0.4-0.45% essential oil. The primary constituents of the essential oil include thymoquinone, carvacrol, p-cymene, thymol, t-anethole, α-terpinene and pinene. Additionally, the seeds comprise alkaloids like nigellimine, nigellicine, nigellamine, and nigellidine; saponins such as hederin and hederagenin; and compounds carrying various coumarin structures. The aerial parts are rich in flavonoid compounds such as nigelflavonoside B, nigelloside, quercetin, kaempferol, and rutin. The antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antihistaminic, anti-aging, antihypertensive, anticoagulant, antimicrobial, antihelminthic, antineoplastic, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, neuroprotective, and wound healing activities of Nigella sativa have been identified through in vitro, in vivo, and clinical research. In conclusion, Nigella sativa L. (black cumin) is a valuable medicinal plant with versatile health benefits. Further exploration of its therapeutic applications holds great promise for the development of new pharmaceuticals and nutraceuticals to combat various ailments and improve human health.