Ethnobotanical review of Bunium bulbocastanum (Black Cumin) for the treatment of diseases: The clinical and mechanistic evidence

Abstract

Over many centuries, traditional medicines have been used by many countries throughout the world and reflect the vital part of healthcare. The use of traditional medicine has gained popularity in the last few decades and expanded globally. The traditional Indian medicine, Ayurveda being the most ancient yet promoting and supporting extensive research and therapies for various health needs. Bunium bulbocastanum, also known as kala jeera (black cumin), is a member of the Apiaceae family. Its fruit has been used for food for several years, and it can be consumed raw or cooked to add taste. This plant and its derivatives have antimicrobial, antioxidant, antiinflammatory, anti-diabetes, antimicrobial and antifungal properties. Bunium bulbocastanum is also well known ayurvedic medicinal plant used to treat a variety of ailments including throat infections, cold, fever, and hyperglycemia. The previous studies have also explored that the aqueous and ethyl acetate fractions of the fruit extract of Bunium bulbocastanum have been shown to have anti-cancer activity on lung cancer and cervical cancer cell lines. Recently, traditional herbal medicinal plants and its derivatives have gained importance as they are easily accessible and have less than minimal risk of side effect. There is no review article which explored the potential health benefits of Bunium bulbocastanum. The present review focuses on a detailed survey of the literature on scientific researches of pharmacological activities of the seeds of this plant.