Hashimoto's disease, or Hashimoto's thyroiditis, is a condition in which your immune system attacks the thyroid, a small gland that produces hormones necessary for many bodily functions. For people with Hashimoto's disease, the autoimmune disorder impairs thyroid function, eventually causing hypothyroidism, or an underactive thyroid.
Black seed powder improved thyroid function
A total of 40 patients with Hashimoto's disease participated in the clinical trial. The participants, aged between 22 and 50 years, were randomly assigned to either the intervention or control group. Those in the intervention group received a daily dose of 2 grams of black seed powder for eight weeks. In comparison, those in the control group took 2 grams of a starch placebo for the same period. The research team conducted a follow-up procedure to ensure that the participants took the supplements regularly.
During baseline and at the end of the trial, the researchers measured the participants' weight, recorded their food choices and took blood samples. This allowed the team to study whether taking black seed powder had a therapeutic effect on patients with Hashimoto's disease.
The findings revealed that participants who took black seed powder had reduced levels of serum thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and anti-thyroid peroxidase (anti-TPO) antibodies, which are biomarkers for thyroid disease. In addition, the participants also had improved serum T3 concentrations after eight weeks.
More about the adverse effects of synthetic T4
Conventional treatment for hypothyroidism involves taking synthetic T4. The man-made hormone is similar to thyroxine (T4) produced and released by the thyroid gland; however, it has been known to cause adverse effects, including forgetfulness, menstrual irregularities, heart palpitations and sleep troubles, among others.
In addition, studies have shown that synthetic T4, despite popular claims that it's nearly identical to thyroxine, is anything but. Levothyroxine, a prescription drug for treating hypothyroidism, is known to cause life-threatening side effects including arrhythmia, heart failure and even heart attack. (Related: Thyroid drug increases risk of bone fractures in women.)
A remedy for “everything”
Black seeds and their oil are widely used in traditional Islamic medicine and Ayurveda for treating various ailments. In fact, black seed oil was found in the tomb of the Egyptian pharaoh Tutankhamun, and the prophet Mohammed said that black seeds were a remedy for all diseases, except death.
Multiple studies have also demonstrated the therapeutic properties of black seeds, which include pain relief, liver protection and kidney protection. It's also known for its anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, anti-fungal and anti-viral properties. Black seeds are also used to treat inflammation, ulcer, hypertension and diabetes. In fact, a recent study revealed that black seeds can potentially treat Helicobacter pylori infections, a disease that affects over half of the world's population.
Egyptian researchers also found that black seeds can suppress cancer growth and boost the immune system, thanks to a compound called thymoquinone.
Small and unassuming as they may look, black seeds impart therapeutic benefits to those looking for better health and well-being. Learn more about black seeds and other natural cures to modern diseases at Medicine.news.
Sources include:
BMCComplementMedTherapies.BioMedCentral.com
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