Studies of some biochemical nutritional and anti-inflammatory effects of nigella

ABSTRACT

The anti-inflammatory effects of the whole powdered seeds of Nigella sativa L. [Family Ranunculaceae] as well as the successive petroleum and alcoholic extracts were tested in experimental rats. The results revealed a remarked anti-inflammatory activity of the tested natural agents. The results revealed that the whole powdered seeds produced a significant reduction of plasma triglycerides, postprandial blood sugar and body weight gain. The alcoholic extract produced a significant decrease of plasma cholesterol and body weight gain, while the petroleum ether extract reduced plasma cholesterol and postprandial blood sugar significantly and produced a significant increase in body weight gain. Concerning liver and kidney function tests, the three tested natural agents showed complete safety. Chemical composition of the most active extract was carried out. The total fatty acids fraction was methylated and analyzed by GLC. The results revealed the presence of myristic, palmitic, stearic, oleic, linolenic, behenic and arachidic acids with a quantitative variation in the petroleum ether extract, which is safe up to 6 g/kg mice body weight according to the acute toxicity test