If you are among those millions who suffer from unbearable arthritis pain, joint pain, or stiffness, this is for you. A new research study published suggests that black cumin seed oil (Nigella sativa) could significantly ease arthritis symptoms, naturally and without any side effects as per studies, as much as conventional painkillers have.Arthritis is marked by chronic joint pain, inflammation, and bone health deterioration, which affects millions of people worldwide. Osteoarthritis is taking the lead, marked by deadly joint pain. While conventional treatment methods like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroid injections can offer relief, they often come with side effects or long-term health risks. And this is the reason why millions are shifting towards natural remedies and among the most promising ones is black cumin seed oil, scientifically known as Nigella Sativa.
Clinical evidence from a randomised, placebo-controlled trial
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than three-fourths of the communities in resource-limited countries rely upon medicinal plants for their primary health care needs because more than 60% of the societies are unable to have access to and/or afford allopathic medicines. Among several medicinal plants, Nigella sativa L. (Ranunculaceae) has been considered one of the most treasured nutrient-rich herbs in history around the world and numerous scientific studies are in progress to validate the traditionally claimed uses of small seeds of this species.This study was published in the National Library of Medicine, titled” Nigella sativa L. (Black Cumin): A Promising Natural Remedy for a Wide Range of Illnesses.” Black cumin seeds are nutritionally rich, containing 20-85% protein 7-94% fiber, 38.2% fat and 31.94% carbs, and are additionally are good source of amino acids like glutamate, arginine and cysteine.
How was the study conducted?
In a double-blind trial involving 116 participants aged 50-70 years of age were diagnosed with knee osteoarthritis, researchers tested the efficacy and safety of black cumin seed oil.The test subjects were divided into two groups: one received 2.5 mL of N. sativa oil every 8 hours; the control group received a placebo. Treatment continued for one month.52 participants were in the treatment group and 54 in the placebo group had completed the trial. The findings were:Improved joint pain and function:27.72% improvement in the treatment group vs 1.34% in the placeboAnalgesic use declined:With fewer acetaminophen tablets taken by those on N. sativa oilPain reduction: 33.96% average decrease in the treatment group vs 9.21% in the placebo
A time-tested natural remedy with modern potential
Traditionally, it has been used in households due to its low cost, accessibility and fewer effects compared to synthetic drugs. Black cumin is widely used across cultures and has a long history of treating ailments. These seeds have an active compound known as thymoquinone (TQ) that offers therapeutic benefits for numerous conditions such as:Chronic diseases: Diabetes, hypertension, neurological disorders, cancerInfectious disease: Including bacterial, viral, fungal, and parasitic infections Now, imagine when combined with conventional treatments, black cumin can enhance drug efficacy, reduce required dosages, and may help overcome drug resistance. Given its broad safety margin and therapeutic promise.
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