/oss/taxonomy/term/1689/all en /oss/article/controversial-science-food-health-you-asked/you-asked-black-cumin-seed-really-cure-all-things-one-newsletter-purports <p>Umm....no. But this “miracle” cure is making the rounds. It is the “foundation for a longer life,” according to one ad. This time it is an extract from the seeds of the nigella sativa plant, also sometimes called black cumin, black sesame, black caraway, black onion or fennel flower seed. The seeds, we are told, have a history of use as a spice and medicine in Africa, India and the Middle East and were even found in the tomb of King Tut. They are reputed to treat skin conditions, respiratory infections, intestinal disorders and parasites, headaches and toothaches.</p> Tue, 03 Jun 2014 09:58:07 +0000 Joe Schwarcz PhD 2149 at /oss