What is a virus?

October 19, 2014: UPDATE
More About Vitamin C and Ebola
Manufactured Virus
Ebola Pandemic
 
Stopping Ebola, The Ayurvedic Approach
http://www.bolenreport.com/EbolaIndianProtocol.htm
More About Urine Therapy


Ebola Can Go Airborne - Russell Blaylock MD

“It's a viral organism and at first it was only spread by fluid, body fluids,” he said. “So you had to come in contact with the body or get some of the fluids, serum or blood, in order to contract it. It was not airborne.

"There's evidence now from a Canadian study that in fact it may be airborne and what they do is they separate animals and they infect one group of animals and see if it will spread to the isolated other ones that are exposed to the air, and it did spread," Blaylock said. "Now the U.S. doctors are saying that they don't believe that, but the  Canadian study was very well done and it's sort of irrefutable evidence.”

Quarantine is the only sure way to keep it from spreading, Blaylock said. But in Africa, where it has reached a public health crisis, people were not quarantined soon enough, allowing the disease to rapidly spread.

“When we first had Ebola appear in Africa, they did a pretty good job of quarantining and it didn't really spread,” he said. “But this time, unfortunately,  they let it get out. Families were invading areas that they were told not to go into because they wanted to see their loved ones the last time, and they underestimated the virus itself because they were wearing these HazMat suits and protective gear, but the virus still spread to them.”

Blaylock said it is highly risky for the government to ship Americans who contracted Ebola while working in Africa back to the United States for treatment.

“One of the big mistakes they made is shipping these people back to the United States because they can share the virus two months later,”  he said. “A carried situation, for instance, in the semen it's alive for two months after the patient recovers.”

Blaylock, author of the “Blaylock Wellness Report,” said he does not trust the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to protect the American public.

“I don't have confidence in the CDC,” he said. “They have numerous times shown that their interest is in money from different sources.  They've made so many errors; they've shipped out a dangerous virus to researchers from the USDA that could have caused an epidemic of Bird Flu. So I don't have a lot of confidence in the CDC.”

On the upside, according to Blaylock, should Ebola make its way to the United States, it is not likely to have the same 90 percent-100 percent mortality rate it does in Africa.

“Almost all Africans are infected with parasites, parasites suppress the immune system,” he said. “So these people have poor dietary supplementation which makes their immune system weak. They have the parasitic infections which inhibit the immune system's ability to fight viruses”

He suggests D3 vitamin supplements and a low-sugar diet since sugar is proven to suppress the immune system.

October 18, 2014: UPDATE
Robert Cathcart MD
Ebola and the Marburg Virus + Vitamin C
the 2005 epidemic in Angola which was first referred to as an Ebola like virus has now been called the Marburg Virus.  It does not make a difference from the point of view of treatment with massive doses of intravenous sodium ascorbate.  Both diseases kill by way of free radicals which can be neutralized by massive doses of sodium ascorbate intravenously.

Ebola in the U.S.—Politics and Public Health Don’t Mix

October 17, 2014: UPDATE
Read a new and informative article by my colleague Ken Stoller MD
Incurable Me: Ebola

and  http://www.bolenreport.com/Ebo%20Lie.htm

A virus by its very nature mutates...

Recall that 1996 book published by my colleague of many years titled "Aids, Ebola, and Emerging Viruses"?

FYI: The US CDC is the patent holder for the ebola virus.

See this page I developed years ago when the SARS outbreak had everyone in a terror, or so the CDC and FDA hoped.  http://www.leaflady.org/immune_system_health.htm

Part 1 - A different way of looking at Ebola

The growing epidemic of Ebola in Africa is a big cause for concern among the general public. The media coverage of this aggressive illness is not much help. Though there is a truth to the aggressive and disturbing nature of Ebola, there is some hope nestled in our growing understanding of the infection. Although it has high mortality but we have to look at folks who survived, what was the protective mechanism in these folks? In this article we will look at the nature of this virus and what we can learn about protecting ourselves.

First recorded Ebola outbreak originated in Democratic Republic of Congo in the year 1976.[1] Since then , there have been over 20 outbreaks in various countries in Central and Western Africa. The mortality rate among infected persons during these outbreaks has been 50-90%.[1] High mortality rate has made Ebola virus one of the most aggressive infectious agent known to people. The recent outbreak in West African countries of Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Nigeria has been the largest in the short history since our introduction to this virus.[2]

Ebola is relatively rare infection among humans. Fruit bats of Africa are believed to the original host of the Ebola virus. Human infections like occur due to direct contact with blood or other body secretions of infected animals. “In Africa, infection has been documented through the handling of infected chimpanzees, gorillas, fruit bats, monkeys, forest antelope and porcupines found ill or dead or in the rainforest.”[1] Within the community, the infection spreads via human-to-human transmission. The routes of transmission are still limited to direct contact with blood and other body secretions of the infected or dead victims of Ebola.[3]

The Ebola Infection
Upon contraction of the Ebola virus, the illness begins with flu-like symptoms, body aches, fatigue, headaches, and fever. Some may also develop a bruising rash on the skin, described as a hemorrhagic rash. In the later stages, these individuals develop loss of appetite, severe stomach ache, diarrhea with or without bleeding, and vomiting.[4] Hemorrhage and loss of blood are the most devastating aspects of the infection and often result in fatality. The infection runs its course within 14-21 days.[5] During  this time, if the virus does not kill the infected person,  the immune system of the person is able to overcome the disease.

Researchers have been able to shed a lot of light on how the Ebola virus affects the biology of the infected person. This may also shed some light on ways to defend against the infection. Ebola virus contains two very similar glycol-proteins (GPs); which form the interactive protein structure that appears on the surface of the virus.[5] The GPs bind to the receptor proteins located on the host human cells on various organs. Cells of the gastrointestinal tract, bloodstream, and immune system are the first to be affected by viral invasion. After invading the cell, virus over-takes the cell’s protein production and depletes the cell. Infection of circulating immune cells like monocytes and dendritic cells weakens the immune cells; because they are circulatory, these cells carry the virus to all parts of the body.[6] Viral activity also manipulates these cells to create high amount of inflammatory signaling molecules. In response to inflammation,
endothelial cells of the blood vessels become more porous causing bleeding problems. The worst effects of the infection are seen on circulatory and immune system of the infected person. These effects result in the symptoms of diarrhea, vomiting, hemorrhage, and immune debility experienced by Ebola patients.

The Role of the Immune system and the Survival Factor
One arm of Ebola’s fatality weakens the immune system making it difficult for the body to mount a response. However, the body and the immune system are persistent for survival – research looking at the immune function of survivors and nonsurvivors is teaching us about nature’s best strategy to overcome. The first defensive response of the immune system is to recognize and bind to the viral proteins. This is a double-edged sword, because this is also the easiest way for the cell to become infected. The surveillance immune cells (B-cells) bind to virus and produce IgM antibodies to recruit other immune cells to neutralize the virus.[7] Antiviral T-cell lymphocytes become involved; these produce IgG antibodies that reinforce the defensive action against the virus. Production of IgM and IgG antibodies represent virus-specific signals for the immune system to recognize and eliminate the virus.

Studies that compared immune systems of survivors with the immune function of non-survivors of Ebola illustrate the differences in immune activity. Among survivors of Ebola infections during a 1996 outbreak in Gabon, Sudan; it was found that these individuals had greater concentration of IgM and IgG antibodies7    and also had more sustained antiviral T-cell response. Comparatively, all of these were deficient among the non-survivors. The immune system of the non-survivors was slower to respond, thus sustained greater loss due to death of immune cells – this resulted in ultimate fatality.[7]

In a study of 2000-2001 Ebola outbreak in Gulu, Uganda; researchers looked at similar parameter of the immune system[8]. In this study, the researcher looked at the immune responses of blood samples from survivor and non-survivors of this outbreak. It was discovered that survivors had developed antibodies against various proteins on the virus. These antibodies were still active in the survivors after the infection had passed. In a 12 year follow-up study with the survivors, the immune systems still carried IgM antibodies against the viral proteins.[9] These individual still produced a significant immune response to injected viral proteins over a decade after exposure to the illness.

This group of studies and others like them are recognizing the central role of the immune system in survival. For an infection like Ebola, which has no apparent clinical cure, natural reinforcement of the immune system may represent an oasis of hope in the desert of fear and panic.

Prevention is the best treatment: As far as we know, this virus is transmitted through bodily fluids and it is not air borne. You are not going to contract this virus in flying or sitting next to Ebola infected person, unless come in contact with blood, vomitus, stool, urine or get injected with infected needle. Proper infection control techniques will be highly effective in controlling this disease. Even once you are in contact with these bodily fluids, washing with soap can be highly effective in warding off this infection, unless you have open wounds on your skin.

Natural strategies for a resilient immune system
Healthy nutrition is the best way to keep your immune system boosted. Diets that are high in a variety of vegetables and fruits are most beneficial. Fruits and vegetables are packed with naturally occurring vitamins and minerals that support healthy enzymatic function in the body. A review of research indicates that fruits and vegetables in the diet support antioxidant, detoxification, immune activity and hormonal metabolism in the body.[10] Dietary mushrooms are source of polysaccharides like β-glucan, that are directly modulate activity of the immune system.[11] An average healthy diet must include up to 4-5 servings of a variety of vegetables every day; and 1-2 servings of fresh fruits every day.

Exercise is an important foundation of health. Exercising supports the immune system through its physiological and mechanical effects on the body. Exercise can help flush out infective agents and cancer-causing toxins by promoting elimination of waste through urine and sweat.[12] It improves circulation of in general – promoting circulation of immune cells and antibodies through all parts of the body. In a research study, moderate exercise performed over 12-15 weeks reduced the number of sick days by half.[13] On the other hand; excessive rigorous exercise can weaken the body’s defenses. Moderate exercise includes, 30-40 minutes of brisk walk 4-5 days every week.

Sleep is one the most healing aspects of daily life. It is the one time when the anabolic (building) functions in the body outpace the catabolic (destructive) functions in the body. Undisturbed sleep can be one of the most regenerative activities that an individual can have every day. Sleep is part of the sleep-wake cycle that helps to balance the circadian rhythm of hormones and physiological activity of the body. This aspect of sleep has a powerful regulatory effect on immune function of the individual;[14] More specifically, sleep has been shown to improve communication between immune cells and improve immunological memory.

Stress is a natural part of life that is an essential motivator survival and change. However, excessive stress and inadequate stress management can become detrimental to health. Just like a stretched rubber-band loses its elasticity over time, a stressed system loses its immunity as well. Chronic stress can make a weak immune system even weaker, increasing susceptibility to disease.[15] Simple stress relieving activity like exercise, deep breathing, yoga, and joyful recreational activity must be incorporated into daily life to induce effective transition into a relaxed state.

Herbal support is the next line of protection that adds to the benefits of daily activity. Ayurveda offers a wide range of herbs called rasayana. According to the Ayurvedic theory, rasayana herbs are rejuvenative medicines that promote health at all tissue levels of the body. The traditional model of tissue formation teaches us that the components of blood related to nourishment like plasma (rasa) and red blood cells (rakta) are formed first. On the other hand, Ojas which represents components of the hormonal system, immune cells, etc. are formed at the end of the process of tissue formation. Rasayana herbs have the capacity to support healthy metabolism at all levels tissue formation – thus, promoting nourishment and protection. 

Amla, Emblica officinalis, is one of the more popular rasayana. It has been used as part of a traditional formula called Chyawanprash for over 2000 years. Amla is a very useful antioxidant and liver supportive herb. Antioxidant function of this herb has a regenerative effect on the immune system.[16] The liver supportive activity of Amla has been shown to restore anti-oxidant system of the liver and restore elevated liver enzymes to normal. It has been observed to protect liver damage due to toxins and protect development of liver cancer.17,18 Liver is the primary detoxing organ of the body. Optimal function of the liver reduces toxic burden and allows the immune system to deal with real threats.

Ashwagandha, Withania somnifera, is an excellent adrenal supportive herb that has tonifying effect on the whole hormone system. Ashwagandha contains glycoside compound of Ashwagandha have been observed to reduce stress on the adrenal gland and stimulate the thyroid gland activity.[19] This demonstrates the anti-stress activity and pro-metabolic activity of Ashwagandha. Both of these reinforce immune activity of the individual, indicated by the mobilization and activation of immune cells.[20] Ashwagandha has also been observed to reverse immune-suppression caused by steroid use.[21] Ashwagandha herb is one of the best hormonal and immune modulator offered by Ayurvedic tradition. In 1903 plague epidemic, people who were given Ashwagandha survived. Ashwagandha does not have strong antibacterial properties, but it does stimulate host defense.

Turmeric, Curcuma longa, this common household spice is emerging as a miraculous anti-inflammatory agent. While healthy, controlled inflammation is a part of a normal immune response; excessive inflammation causes tissue damage and depletion of the immune system. Turmeric contains the compound curcumin, which is recognized for helping control inflammation as effectively as Non-Steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). In animal studies, Curcumin has been observed to be equal Ibuprofen to prevent inflammatory plaque formation in Alzheimer disease.[22] Curcumin does this without the risk of toxicity seen with NSAIDs. Additionally, Curcumin’s effectiveness has been demonstrated in chronic diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, obesity and other metabolic diseases.23,24,25 When unnecessary inflammation is brought under control this takes a lot of stress from immune system and the adrenal gland – this also protects from inflammatory tissue damage.
Altogether, managing inflammation in this way makes the immune system more efficient.

Guduchi, Tinospora cordifolia, is a versatile herb for supporting immune and liver function. Guduchi is traditionally used in wide variety of conditions for its combination of anti-oxidant, anti-inflammatory, immune modulating and liver supportive actions.[26] A review of research indicates that Guduchi produces Its anti-inflammatory effect through blocking the effect of inflammatory signals like histamine, bradykinin, etc.[27] Immune supportive activity of this herb is demonstrated in animal studies by elevation and circulation of B-cell and T-cell lymphocytes, which perform surveillance and elimination of infective agents.28,29 In a demonstration of its dual functions as liver and immune support, Guduchi treated amoebiasis in animals by reversing liver abscess.[29]

Conclusion
In the midst of worries of a global epidemic, natural medicine offers some very helpful and applicable strategies for protecting oneself. These are simple life-promoting daily activities that help the individual conform with nature. Blending with nature in this way is what allowed our ancestors to survive when there were no drugs available. Following the nature’s wisdom is the ideal way to bring balance and health; this is the first step to effective prevention.

References
http://ayurvedicscience.com/newsletters/the-ebola-epidemic-strategies-for-prevention/

"Truth and love must prevail over lies and hatred." Vaclav Havel, 1936-2011
 Copyright© Gayle Eversole, DHom, PhD, MH, NP, ND.  All rights reserved.

You may find more on viruses and vaccines on Natural Health News using our search box 

Part 2 -

Nutritional Law and Medicine

It has long been apparent that an increased susceptibility to infectious diseases is common in malnourished human populations. This has traditionally been viewed as simply a consequence of the fact that the immune system must be maintained by adequate nutrition in order to function optimally. Only recently has data begun to accumulate in support of the idea that nutritional factors may sometimes have a direct effect on pathogens, and that passage through nutritionally deficient hosts may facilitate evolutionary changes in infectious agents.[1]

The mechanisms of cell death, apoptosis, necrosis, pyroptosis, or autophagic cell death depends on a cells ability to cope with the conditions to which it is exposed. The adaptive capacity of a cell ultimately determines its fate when it comes under stress. The strength or what we can call a cells adaptive capacity is directly related to nutritional sufficiency and proper cellular respiration that removes all toxins and wastes through the cell wall.

Patients who are critically ill with Ebola have high nutritional requirements that need to be addressed. Nutritional feeding is critical to patient outcome. Natural Allopathic Medicine takes a different approach than contemporary medicine. Instead of using toxic pharmaceuticals that diminish the immune system by further driving down nutritional status we use we treat and cure through the fulfillment of nutritional law.

We do not need to develop expensive drugs waiting while millions potentially die. Right in the emergency room are already excellent medicines that doctors are familiar with that save lives every day. Nutritional medicine is safer and more effective than pharmaceutical medicine. Just ask an emergency-room or intensive-care-ward doctor right after he has injected magnesium chloride or sodium bicarbonate to save someone’s life.

With Ebola raging in Africa and threatening the rest of the world it is inexcusable that medical and health officials continue to frown on the use of un-patentable medicines like those mentioned above. The substances in the Natural Allopathic protocol for Ebola offer a power unequalled in the world of medicine that we can harness to save many lives of people infected with Ebola. However, some people would enjoy seeing millions if not billions of people die to reduce population down to a more manageable level. Others would rather stick with their professional pride or obedience to medical officials and let patients die than even think of what should work to decrease the death rate from Ebola.  It really would be a shame if the medical world stands by and lets this pandemic take hold.

The secrets of emergency room and intensive care medicine holds the key to resolving Ebola. Magnesium salts, sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), iodine, selenium and vitamin C are concentrated nutritional medicinals that have been used in the direst of medical circumstances. They are widely available, inexpensive and safe to administer round the clock at high dosages.

The core of the Natural Allopathic protocol redefines the way emergency room and intensive care should be practiced on Ebola patients with proven fast-acting, safe, concentrated and mostly injectable nutritional medicines. If the Ebola infection truly gets out of hand, it is comforting for parents to know that they can legally administer these same medicinals if infected people are treated at home. All of the Natural Allopathic Medicines can be also taken orally or used transdermally (topically) to almost the same effect if treatment is started early enough.

People who either choose home care or have no other option need to treat everyone in the home at the same time whether demonstrating symptoms or not. Waiting for the contagion to spread inside a family, or with health care professionals in hospitals and clinics, is unwise. The main idea is to get out in front of the virus.

Natural Options

Selenium

Magnesium

Vitamin C

Vitamin D

Sodium Bicarbonate

Iodine

Colloidal Silver

Specific Pure therapeutic essential oils

Far Infrared therapy

Glutathione
Medical Marijuana

from Marc Sircus

Black Cumin and Pancreatic Cancer

UPDATE: Feb 2011 - Gernod Katzer's Spice pages are a resource I frequently use  to help people learn more about the benefits of herbs for health.  Here is the page on Nigella sativa

Original post date April 2009

For Black oil purchases please contact us.

See also enzymes for pancreatic cancer and other related articles here on Natural Health News (search window)

DENVER, April 21 (UPI) -- An anti-inflammatory herbal extract may inhibit pancreatic cancer, U.S. researchers say.

Thymoquinone -- the major constituent of the oil extract from a Middle Eastern herbal seed called Nigella sativa used as a traditional medicinal in Middle Eastern and Asian countries -- reduces the release of inflammatory mediators in pancreatic cancer cells.

Dr. Hwyda Arafat of the Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia, who was the study leader, says thymoquinone almost completely abolished the expression of several inflammatory cytokines, including: TNF-alpha, interleukin-1beta, interleukin-8, Cox-2 and MCP-1.

This effect was superior to the effect of trichostatin A -- an inflammation inhibitor already shown to ameliorate inflammation-associated cancers.

The herb also inhibited the activation and synthesis of NF-kappaB, a transcription factor that has been implicated in inflammation-associated cancer. Activation of NF-kappaB has been observed in pancreatic cancer and may be a factor in pancreatic cancer's resistance to chemotherapeutic agents.

"These are very exciting and novel results," Arafat said in a statement. "These potent effects show promise for the herb as a potential preventive and therapeutic strategy for pancreatic cancer. More importantly, the herb and oil are safe when used moderately, and have been used for thousands of years without reported toxic effects."

The findings are being presented at the American Association for Cancer Research's 100th annual meeting in Denver.

Clinical Data on Black Seed Herb

Black seed is used for treating gastrointestinal conditions including gas, colic, diarrhea, dysentery, constipation and haemorrhoids. It is also used for respiratory conditions, including asthma, allergies, cough, bronchitis, emphysema, flu and congestion. Additionally, it is used as an antihypertensive, immunoprotectant, anticancer agent, and vermifuge. It is used orally for women's health: including as a contraceptive, for stimulation of menstruation, and increasing milk flow.

In allergic conditions, black seed may have antihistamine effects. Black seed is thought to have immunoprotectant effects. Preliminary evidence suggests it may help minimize chemotherapy-induced decreases in hemoglobin and leukocyte counts. Black seed may be beneficial as an anticancer agent. According to preliminary studies, black seed may inhibit stomach tumors, carcinoma, and Ehrlich ascites carcinoma.

Black seed is reported to have been used for over 2000 years. Recordings mention it as far back as 1400 years. Black seed was found in the tomb of King Tutankhamen.

Published Clinical Studies
Black Seed Herb

The in vitro effect of aqueous extract of Nigella sativa seeds on nitric oxide production.(click here to view report)

Neuropharmacological activity of Nigella sativa L. extracts.(Click here to view)

Chemopreventive potential of volatile oil from black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) seeds against rat colon carcinogenesis.(Click here to view)

Nigella sativa (black cumin) ameliorates potassium bromate-induced early events of carcinogenesis: diminution of oxidative stress.(Click here to view)

Delayed apoptosis upon the treatment of Hep-2 cells with black seed.(Click here to view)

Effect of Nigella sativa (N. sativa L.) and oxidative stress on the survival pattern of MCF-7 breast cancer cells.(Click here to view)

Protective effect of Nigella sativa seeds against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage.(Click here to view)

Effect of Nigella sativa (black seed) on subjective feeling in patients with allergic diseases.(Click here to view)

The in vitro effect of aqueous extract of Nigella sativa seeds on nitric oxide production.

Mahmood MS, Gilani AH, Khwaja A, Rashid A, Ashfaq MK.

Department of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, The Aga Khan University Medical College, Karachi, Pakistan.

The in vitro effect of aqueous extract of Nigella sativa seeds on nitric oxide (NO) production by murine macrophages was studied. Murine peritoneal macrophages were pre-incubated with the extract and then activated with Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharride. NO production was measured after 24 hours by spectrophotometry. The plant extract caused a dose-dependent decrease in NO production. Dialyzed preparation of the extract did not affect NO production. However, the boiled fraction of the extract resulted in a dose-dependent inhibition of NO apparently comparable to that of the whole extract. These results indicate that the aqueous extract of N. sativa seeds exhibits an inhibitory effect on nitric oxide production by murine macrophages and the active component(s) is/are non-protein in nature. In view of the fact that nitric oxide is a pro-inflammatory mediator, this study validates the traditional use of the Nigella sativa seeds for the treatment of rheumatism. Copyright 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

PMID: 13680825 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Neuropharmacological activity of Nigella sativa L. extracts.

Al-Naggar TB, Gomez-Serranillos MP, Carretero ME, Villar AM.

Facultad de Farmacia, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain.

Pharmacological studies have been conducted on the aqueous and methanol extracts of defatted Nigella sativa L. seeds to evaluate their effects on the central nervous system (CNS) and on analgesic activity. The observations suggest that the two extracts of Nigella sativa possesses a potent CNS and analgesic activity (depressant action especially in the case of the methanolic extract).

PMID: 12902052 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Chemopreventive potential of volatile oil from black cumin (Nigella sativa L.) seeds against rat colon carcinogenesis.

Salim EI, Fukushima S.

Laboratory of Experimental and Molecular Carcinogenesis, Department of Zoology, Faculty of Science, Tanta University, Tanta 31527-Egypt.

Chemopreventive effects of orally administered Nigella sativa oil on the induction and development of 1,2-dimethylhydrazine-induced aberrant crypt foci (ACF), putative preneoplastic lesions for colon cancer, were investigated in Fischer 344 rats. Starting at 6 wk of age, 45 male rats (groups 1-3) were subcutaneously injected with DMH once a week for 3 wk. Group 1 (15 rats) served as a carcinogen control group without N. sativa administration. Group 2 or 3 (15 rats each) were given the oil in the postinitiation stage or in the initiation stage, respectively. Animals of group 4 (11 rats) were injected with 0.9% saline and received N. sativa oil from the beginning until the termination. At sacrifice, 14 wk after the start, the total numbers of ACF as well as those with at least four crypts were significantly reduced in group 2 (P < 0.01). However, treatment with N. sativa oil in the initiation stage (group 3) did not exhibit significant inhibitory effects except on foci with only one aberrant crypt. Immunohistochemical analysis of 5-bromo-2'.-deoxyuridine labeling in colonic crypts revealed the N. sativa oil to have significant antiproliferative activity in both initiation and postinitiation stages and especially in the latter. Histological examination revealed no pathological changes in the liver, kidneys, spleen, or other organs of rats treated with N. sativa. In addition, biochemical parameters of blood and urine as well as body weight gain were not affected. These findings demonstrate that the volatile oil of N. sativa has the ability to inhibit colon carcinogenesis of rats in the postinitiation stage, with no evident adverse side effects, and that the inhibition may be associated, in part, with suppression of cell proliferation in the colonic mucosa. PMID: 12881014 [PubMed - in process] Nigella sativa (black cumin) ameliorates potassium bromate-induced early events of carcinogenesis: diminution of oxidative stress. Khan N, Sharma S, Sultana S. Section of Chemoprevention and Nutrition Toxicology, Department of Medical Elementology and Toxicology, Faculty of Science, Jamia Hamdard, Hamdard University, New Delhi 110 062, India. Potassium bromate (KBrO3) is a potent nephrotoxic agent. In this paper, we report the chemopreventive effect of Nigella sativa (black cumin) on KBrO3-mediated renal oxidative stress, toxicity and tumor promotion response in rats. KBrO3 (125 mg/kg body weight, intraperitoneally) enhances lipid peroxidation, gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase, hydrogen peroxide and xanthine oxidase with reduction in the activities of renal antioxidant enzymes and renal glutathione content. A marked increase in blood urea nitrogen and serum creatinine has also been observed. KBrO3 treatment also enhances ornithine decarboxylase (ODC) activity and [3H] thymidine incorporation into renal DNA. Prophylaxis of rats orally with Nigella sativa extract (50 mg/kg body weight and 100 mg/kg body weight) resulted in a significant decrease in renal microsomal lipid peroxidation (P < 0.001), gamma-glutamyl transpeptidase (P < 0.001), H2O2 (P < 0.001) and xanthine oxidase (P < 0.05). There was significant recovery of renal glutathione content (P < 0.01) and antioxidant enzymes (P < 0.001). There was also reversal in the enhancement of blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, renal ODC activity and DNA synthesis (P < 0.001). Data suggest that Nigella sativa is a potent chemopreventive agent and may suppress KBrO3-mediated renal oxidative stress, toxicity and tumour promotion response in rats. PMID: 12755470 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]
More Info - Clinical Studies - References - Buy Black Seed Oil now
Delayed apoptosis upon the treatment of Hep-2 cells with black seed. Corder C, Benghuzzi H, Tucci M, Cason Z. University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, MS 39216, USA. Nigella sativa (Black seed, BS) has been used to promote health and fight disease for centuries. The objectives of this investigation were: (1) to study whether agents such as cortisol and LPS alone or in combination induce cellular (Hep-2, laryngeal carcinoma) damage with time in culture (24, 48, and 72 hours) using apoptosis as a marker, (2) to determine if an immune stimulant such as BS, can protect Hep-2 cells from insult and ultimately thwart the programmed cells death mechanism. A total of 54 Hep-2 cell/tubes (50,000 cells per tube) were divided into six equal groups. Group one served as untreated control, while groups 2-6 were treated with either cortisol (10 ng/ml), LPS (10 micrograms/ml), BS (25 micrograms/ml), or a combination of LPS and cortisol and cortisol plus LPS plus BS, respectively. At the end of each phase the cells were harvested, heat fixed and stained with H&E to evaluate morphological changes. Immunohistochemistry, using antibodies against caspace-3 to evaluate cells undergoing apoptosis was conducted in all groups. The results of this study showed evidence of cells undergoing apoptosis at different magnitudes in all groups. However, the most dramatic change was seen in groups containing cortisol and LPS alone or in combination. This was supported by the fact that there were several adaptive responses observed in all phases. In addition, the exposure of BS to cells pretreated with cortisol and LPS showed evidence of protection against the progressive apoptosis. PMID: 12724921 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] Effect of Nigella sativa (N. sativa L.) and oxidative stress on the survival pattern of MCF-7 breast cancer cells. Farah IO, Begum RA. Jackson State University, Jackson, MS 39217, USA. N. Sativa L., an oriental spice, has long been used as a natural medicine for treatment of many acute as well as chronic conditions. It has been used in the treatment of diabetes, hypertension, and dermatological conditions. There has been very few studies on the effects of N. Sativa as cancer prevention/therapy. Our objective therefore, was to expose MCF-7 breast cancer cells to aqueous and alcohol extracts and in combination with H2O2 as an oxidative stressor. Measurement of cell survival under various concentrations and combinations was conducted using standard cell culture techniques, exposure protocols in 96 well plates and Fluoro-spectrosphotometry. Following cellular growth to 90% confluency, exposure to water (WE) and ethanol (AE) extracts of N. sativa and H2O2 was performed. Toxicity index (LC50) was calculated from percent survival using regression analysis. Results showed that the alcohol extract and its combinations were able to completely inactivate the MCF-7 cells (LC50 ranged from 377.16-573.79 in descending potency for H2O2 + AE, AE and Mix of WE and AE). H2O2 alone effectively inactivated MCF-7 cells (LC50 = 460.94). The least effective combinations in descending potency were WE + H2O2, WE + AE + H2O2, and WE (LC50 were 725.79, 765.94, and 940.5 respectively. Combinations other than AE + H2O2 showed possible interactions, which lead to reduction in their potency. In conclusion, N. Sativa alone or in combination with oxidative stress were found to be effective in vitro in inactivating MCF-7 breast cancer cells, unveiling opportunities for promising results in the field of prevention and treatment of cancer. PMID: 12724920 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE] Protective effect of Nigella sativa seeds against carbon tetrachloride-induced liver damage. Al-Ghamdi MS. Department of Pharmacology, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia. mghamdi@Dammam.kfu.edu.sa It has been reported that Nigella sativa oil possesses hepatoprotective effects in some models of liver toxicity. However, it is N. sativa seeds that are used in the treatment of liver ailments in folk medicine rather than its oil. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the effect of the aqueous suspension of N. sativa on carbon tetrachloride (CCL4)-induced liver damage. Aqueous suspension of the seeds was given orally at two dose levels (250 mg/kg and 500 mg/kg) for five days. CCL4 (250 microl/kg intraperitoneally / day in olive oil) was given to the experimental group on days 4 and 5, while the control group was only treated with the vehicles. Animals treated with CCL4 showed remarkable centrilobular fatty changes and moderate inflammatory infiltrate in the form of neutrophil and mononuclear cells when compared to the controls. This effect was significantly decreased in animals pretreated with N. sativa. Histopathological or biochemical changes were not evident following administration of N. sativa alone. Serum levels of aspartic transaminase (AST), and L-alanine aminotransferase (ALT) were slightly decreased while lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) was significantly increased in animals treated with CCL4 when compared to the control group. LDH was restored to normal but ALT and AST levels were increased in animals pretreated with N. sativa. In conclusion, N. sativa seeds appeared to be safe and possibly protective against CCL4-induced hepatotoxicity. However, further studies may still be needed prior to supporting its use in folk medicine for hepatic diseases. PMID: 14696675 [PubMed - in process] Effect of Nigella sativa (black seed) on subjective feeling in patients with allergic diseases. Kalus U, Pruss A, Bystron J, Jurecka M, Smekalova A, Lichius JJ, Kiesewetter H. Humboldt University, Berlin, School of Medicine, Institute for Transfusion Medicine, Charite University Hospital, Berlin, Germany. Nigella sativa (black seed) is an important medicinal herb. In many Arabian, Asian and African countries, black seed oil is used as a natural remedy for a wide range of diseases, including various allergies. The plant's mechanism of action is still largely unknown. Due to the lack of study data on its efficacy in allergies, four studies on the clinical efficacy of Nigella sativa in allergic diseases are presented. In these studies, a total of 152 patients with allergic diseases (allergic rhinitis, bronchial asthma, atopic eczema) were treated with Nigella sativa oil, given in capsules at a dose of 40 to 80 mg/kg/day. The patients scored the subjective severity of target symptoms using a predefined scale. The following laboratory parameters were investigated: IgE, eosinophil count, endogenous cortisol in plasma and urine, ACTH, triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL and HDL cholesterol and lymphocyte subpopulations. The score of subjective feeling decreased over the course of treatment with black seed oil in all four studies. A slight decrease in plasma triglycerides and a discrete increase in HDL cholesterol occurred while the lymphocyte subpopulations, endogenous cortisol levels and ACTH release remained unchanged. Black seed oil therefore proved to be an effective adjuvant for the treatment of allergic diseases. Copyright 2003 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. PMID: 14669258 [PubMed - in process]

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References Hanafy MS, Hatem ME. Studies on the antimicrobial activity of Black seed seed (black cumin). J Ethnopharmacol 1991;34(2-3):275-8. The Review of Natural Products by Facts and Comparisons. St. Louis, MO: Wolters Kluwer Co., 1999. Akhtar MS, et al. Field trial of Saussurea lappa roots against nematodes and Nigella sativa seeds against cestodes in children. JPMA J Pak Med Assoc 1991 Aug;41(8)185-7. Tennekoon KH, Jeevathayaparan S, Kurukulasooriya AP, Karunanayake EH. Possible hepatotoxicity of Nigella sativa seeds and Dregea volubilis leaves. J Ethnopharmacol 1991;31(3):283-9. Keshri G, Singh MM, Lakshmi V, Kamboj VP. Post-coital contraceptive efficacy of the seeds of Black seed in rats. Indian J Physiol Pharmacol 1995;39(1):59-62. Aqel M, Shaheen R. Effects of the volatile oil of Black seed seeds on the uterine smooth muscle of rat and guinea pig. J Ethnopharmacol 1996;52(1):23-6. Nagi MN, Alam K, Badary OA, et al. Thymoquinone protects against carbon tetrachloride hepatotoxicity in mice via an antioxidant mechanism. Biochem Mol Biol Int 1999;47(1):153-9. Chakravarty N. Inhibition of histamine release from mast cells by nigellone. Ann Allergy 1993;70(3):237-42. Worthen DR, Ghosheh OA, Crooks PA. The in vitro anti-tumor activity of some crude and purified components of blackseed, Black seed L. Anticancer Res 1998;18(3A):1527-32. Daba MH, Abdel-Rahman MS. Hepatoprotective activity of thymoquinone in isolated rat hepatocytes. Toxicol Lett 1998;95(1):23-9. Salomi NJ, Nair SC, Jayawardhanan KK, et al. Antitumour principles from Black seed seeds. Cancer Lett 1992;63(1):41-6. Houghton PJ, Zarka R, de las Heras B, Hoult JR. Fixed oil of Black seed and derived thymoquinone inhibit eicosanoid generation in leukocytes and membrane lipid peroxidation. Planta Med 1995;61(1):33-6. Haq A, Abdullatif M, Lobo PI, et al. Black seed: effect on human lymphocytes and polymorphonuclear leukocyte phagocytic activity. Immunopharmacology 1995;30(2):147-55. Badary OA, Al-Shabanah OA, Nagi MN, et al. Inhibition of benzo(a)pyrene-induced forestomach carcinogenesis in mice by thymoquinone. Eur J Cancer Prev 1999;8(5):435-40. Medenica RD. Use of Black seed to increase immune function. U.S. Patent 5,482,711, issued January 9, 1996. Obtained from US Patent and Trademark Ofc on April 12, 2000. www.uspto.gov/patft/index.htm. Increases immune function. ~ U.S. Patents Sections, Antiviral Agents Bulletin #5,482,711 Black seed stimulates bone marrow and immune cells and raises the interferon production, protects normal cells against cell destroying effects of viruses, destroys tumor cells and raises the number of anti-bodies producing B cells. ~ Cancer Immuno-biology Laboratory ,South Carolina Black seed contains valuable unsaturated fatty acids, for example Linoleic and Gammalinolen acids get into the organism. By that it possible to reach a synthesis of important immune regulating substances derived as from Prostaglandin E1. Linoleic acid stabilizes the cell membranes and Prostaglandin has the effect of inhibiting inflammation. By that the immune reactions are stopped which cause the illnesses and which otherwise could be the start of many chronic illnesses like acne and hayfever right up to cancer. ~ Dr. Peter Schleicher Immunologist, Munich, Germany Black seed proves to have an ant histamine, ant-oxidant, anti-biotic, anti-mycotic and broncho-dilating effect. ~ Study of Black seed oil on humans, American Scientists Black seed is truly a remarkable herb that has been used for over 3000 years. It contains over 100 valuable components. It is a significant source of essential fatty acids, proteins, carbohydrates and other vitamins and minerals. " The seeds are also rich in sterols, especially beta-sitosterol, which is known to have anticarcinogenic activity". ~ Dr. Michael Tierra L.AC. O.M.D Black seed tests prove to be genuine universal remedy. ~ Pharmaceutical newspaper, Wissenschaftlicher Text Black seed is a valuable source of protein, carbohydrates, essential fatty acids, vitamins A, B1, B2, C and niacin as well as minerals such as calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium, selenium, magnesium and zinc. ~ Phytochemicals of Nigella sativa seeds. Food Chemistry