Nutritional value, functional properties and nutraceutical applications of black cumin (Nigella sativa L.): An overview

Non-conventional seeds are being considered because their constituents have unique chemical properties and may augment the supply of nutritional and functional products. Black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) seeds and its crude or essential oils have been widely used in traditional nutritional and medicinal applications. Consequently, black cumin has been extensively studied for its nutritional value and biological activities. The black cumin oilseed had been shown to be anticancer, antidiabetic, antiradical and immunomodulator, analgesic, antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, bronchodilator, hepatoprotective, antihypertensive and renal protective. Moreover, black seeds have many antioxidative properties and activities. In consideration of potential utilisation, detailed knowledge on the composition of black cumin oilseed is of major importance. The diversity of applications to which black cumin can be put gives this oilseed great industrial importance. This review summarises the nutritional value, functional properties and nutraceutical applications of black cumin (N. sativa L.) oilseeds. © 2007 The Authors. Journal compilation 2007 Institute of Food Science and Technology Trust Fund.