Biochemistry, Nutrition, and Therapeutics of Black Cumin Seed

Book excerpt: Biochemistry, Nutrition, and Therapeutics of Black Cumin Seed covers the history of medicinal uses of N. sativa and its position in various cultures, agronomy, cultivation and agricultural practices. The book also brings the biochemical composition, carbohydrates, polysaccharides and nutritional value of black cumin seeds, while also exploring them as a potential functional food. Written by an international team of black cumin seeds researchers, this book aims to reach producers, nutraceuticals and pharmaceutical companies, unconventional oil producing companies, seed oils researchers, Institutes and research groups of medicinal plants, Food and chemistry students what they need to understand about the black cumin seed. Black cumin's application as a food additive and flavoring agent have been reported in various countries around the world. Furthermore, previous studies have identified many volatile components present in N. sativa seeds, including thymoquinone, a main compound that has antioxidant, antimicrobial, anti-malarial, anti-cancer activities and help in treatment of bronchial asthma, ischemia and cardiovascular diseases, besides many other compounds that can induce pharmacological effects and have therapeutic potential in humans. - Thoroughly explores the biochemical composition, nutritional values, functional and medicinal potentials of black cumin seed and where they can be grown worldwide - Covers the cultivation and agricultural practices of black cumin seeds - Brings medicinal uses of black cumin seeds, such as anti-malarial and anti-cancer activities - Details the biological activities of the black cumin seeds and its nutritional effects