Celastrus hindsii is a precious medicinal plant with many beneficial effects on human health. Learn more about the benefits of this plant through the information below.
Information about Blackseed
Name, Scientific Name, Composition
Blackseed is a climbing plant that often grows in dense bushes, with an average height ranging from 3 to 10 meters. It usually blooms in late spring, early summer, and bears fruit from August to December. It was first discovered in 1851 by George Bentham.
In addition to its common name, Blackseed is also known by many other names, such as Cancer Plant, Miracle Plant, Pillow Vine, Brown Fruit Plant, and White Thousand Flowers. The scientific name of Blackseed is Celastrus Hindsii Benth, and its main components include Flavonoids, Tannins, Triterpenoids, Reducing Sugars, Cyanoglucosides, Polyphenols, Quinones, and Amino Acids.
Distribution
Blackseed is widely distributed in Asia, especially in China and Southeast Asian countries such as Vietnam, Thailand, and Myanmar. In Vietnam, Blackseed is abundant in provinces such as Thua Thien Hue, Hoa Binh, Ninh Binh, and some large national parks like Ba Vi and Cuc Phuong.
Identifying Blackseed plants
The most accurate and effective way to identify Blackseed is by observing the resin inside the stem of the plant. By gently cutting the stem, a dark brown resin will flow out within about 5 minutes. This is why this plant is called Blackseed.
Besides relying on the resin of the plant, you can also easily identify Blackseed through its color and shape of the leaves. Blackseed leaves are oval-shaped, pointed at the tip, and grow alternately. Unlike other plants, the color of Blackseed leaves will change from young to mature. Young leaves have a reddish-purple color similar to basil leaves, while mature leaves are dark green. The outer edges of the leaves are serrated and do not overlap. When you crush the leaves, you will also see a small amount of dark brown resin flowing out, similar to when you cut the stem of the plant. Especially when dried, Blackseed leaves have a mild fragrance and are not brittle like other plant species.
Types of Blackseed Plants
In nature, there are 9 species of plants belonging to the Celastraceae family, including Blackseed, Golden Blackseed, White Blackseed, Hybrid Blackseed, etc. However, Blackseed is the only species of its kind. Besides Blackseed, Golden Blackseed is also used for medicinal purposes. However, Blackseed is more widely used and has more effects than other Blackseed species.
Benefits of Blackseed Plant
Supports Cancer Treatment
Blackseed contains a large amount of Flavonoids. Flavonoids are intermediary metabolites in plants that act as pigments, contributing to the coloration of some flowers. In the human body, Flavonoids help the body absorb vitamin C, regenerate tissues, and slow down the oxidation process caused by free radicals. It inhibits the development of bacteria that cause diseases such as gastric cancer, lung cancer, and blood cancer. This helps facilitate the process of cancer treatment, making it easier and more effective.
Supports Hypertension Treatment
Modern medical research has shown that Blackseed contains active compounds that can mildly lower blood pressure. It helps regulate blood pressure in a stable manner and prevents the occurrence of hypertension.
Helps Treat Liver Inflammation, Cirrhosis, and Elevated Liver Enzymes
Polyphenols, Quinones, and small amounts of toxic substances such as Diphenylpropanes and Macrocyclic Lactones in Blackseed have the ability to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria in the body. Therefore, it can support the treatment of liver diseases such as liver inflammation, cirrhosis, and elevated liver enzymes effectively.
Improves Sleep and Treats Physical Weakness
Thanks to its natural antibacterial properties, Blackseed can help purify and eliminate toxins from the body. It promotes restful sleep and helps people recover faster after illness. Additionally, Flavonoids improve blood circulation, minimizing symptoms of nervous exhaustion, blurred vision, and dizziness.
Treats Acne, Jaundice, and Itchy Rash
In addition to being used as an oral medicine, people with skin problems such as acne, jaundice, or itchy rash also commonly use Blackseed leaves as a topical treatment. This method is highly effective because Blackseed contains Saponin Triterpenoid, which has strong anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. The Amino Acids in the leaves also help wounds heal faster after treatment.
Supports HIV Treatment
Flavonoids in Blackseed have the ability to destroy cell structures and inhibit the development of bacteria that cause HIV. This helps make HIV treatment more effective.
Guidelines for Proper Use of Blackseed
With Fresh Blackseed
If you have a fresh Blackseed plant at home, using fresh Blackseed as medicine is considered more convenient. Currently, there are three popular ways to use fresh Blackseed: boiling it for drinking, crushing it and applying it to wounds, or soaking it in medicinal alcohol.
Boiling Fresh Blackseed for Drinking
When using fresh Blackseed for boiling medicine, it is recommended to use both the leaves and stems. The process of boiling fresh Blackseed for medicine is relatively simple. First, prepare 50g of the plant’s leaves and 50g of the stems, both washed thoroughly, along with 2 liters of water. Then, put all the ingredients in a pot and simmer on low heat for about 30 minutes. Finally, strain the mixture and collect the medicinal water.
Note that during the boiling process, it is advisable to use a clay pot to ensure that no toxins or additives are released. Especially with medicinal water, you should only use it on the same day. If left for more than 24 hours, the Blackseed water may deteriorate and cause symptoms such as bloating, flatulence, or diarrhea.
Applying Fresh Blackseed to Wounds
In addition to using it as a medicine, fresh Blackseed can also be applied to open wounds or areas of the skin affected by acne or itching. It can effectively provide antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits.
To apply fresh Blackseed to wounds, follow these steps: First, prepare 2 to 3 clean fresh Blackseed leaves. Then, chew or crush the leaves and apply them directly to the affected area. This is a commonly used method. However, for the highest treatment effectiveness, it is still advisable to consult healthcare professionals or seek medical advice to avoid any potential complications.
Soaking Fresh Blackseed in Alcohol
If prepared and used correctly, soaking fresh Blackseed in alcohol can provide excellent therapeutic effects. Here is the process for preparing soaked fresh Blackseed:
- Step 1: Prepare and clean Blackseed leaves and stems. Then, dry them thoroughly.
- Step 2: Cut the Blackseed stems diagonally into small pieces with a thickness of about 3mm. For Blackseed leaves, cut them into small segments about the length of two fingertips.
- Step 3: Soak the fresh Blackseed in alcohol at a ratio of 1kg Blackseed to 3 liters of alcohol for approximately 1 to 2 months to allow the compounds to dissolve and blend together.
The resulting soaked alcohol with fresh Blackseed will have a mild fragrance, dark brown color, and a sweet and bitter taste.
With Dried Blackseed
If fresh Blackseed is not available, using dried Blackseed is considered a convenient alternative. You can either dry Blackseed yourself or purchase it from reputable suppliers. If drying it yourself, ensure a clean drying location and follow proper storage techniques. If purchasing, pay attention to the manufacturing address and expiration date of the product.
The most common use of dried Blackseed is brewing it for drinking. Brewing dried Blackseed is similar to making tea. The recommended dosage of dried Blackseed should not exceed 50g per day. If you do not have cancer or liver-related diseases, it is recommended to consume only 20 to 30g per day.
Additional Information
1. Individuals who should use Blackseed
Although Blackseed can support the treatment of various diseases, it is most effective for the following individuals:
- Individuals with cancer
- Individuals with benign tumors or benign growths
- Individuals with infections, ulcers, jaundice, or acne
- Individuals with blood pressure issues such as high blood pressure or unstable blood pressure
- Individuals with HIV
- Individuals undergoing radiation therapy or chemotherapy
2. Individuals who should not use Blackseed
- Individuals with low blood pressure: Due to its potential to lower blood pressure, individuals with low blood pressure should not use Blackseed. If necessary, adding some slices of ginger while consuming it is recommended.
- Individuals with kidney failure: Blackseed is a diuretic, so its use increases kidney activity, which can worsen the condition of individuals with kidney failure.
- Pregnant women and children under 5 years old: Although there is no scientific research proving that Blackseed has harmful effects on these two groups, they are extremely sensitive, so they should not use any herbal remedies without consulting a doctor.
- Individuals with loose stools: Blackseed can stimulate faster bowel movements, which can worsen and complicate the condition of individuals with loose stools.
3. Foods that should not be consumed with Blackseed?
When using Blackseed for treatment, it is not recommended to consume it with alcoholic beverages, stimulants, mung beans, water spinach, or bitter gourd. These foods can reduce or completely negate the effectiveness of the treatment.
4. Does Blackseed cause infertility?
Until now, there is no scientific research indicating that Blackseed has any impact on reproductive health. Therefore, the claim that Blackseed causes infertility is entirely baseless. Furthermore, some gynecological conditions have actually shown positive effects when using Blackseed.
5. How to use Blackseed with Western medicine
Health experts affirm that you can combine Blackseed with Western medicine during the treatment process. However, these two types of medication should be used at least 30 minutes apart to avoid any negative interactions.
6. Possible side effects when using Blackseed
Individuals who are new to using Blackseed water may experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, loose stools, or discomfort in the intestines. However, these conditions will completely disappear after a short period of time.
In addition, Blackseed may cause other side effects such as low blood pressure, dry throat, drowsiness, frequent urination, and temporary visual disturbances. In reality, these side effects will not occur in everyone. The majority of individuals who experience these side effects are those with low blood pressure or a history of low blood pressure. If you are concerned about these side effects, it is advisable to consult a doctor before using the medication to minimize any potential health risks associated with Blackseed.
We hope that with the comprehensive information provided above, you have gained useful knowledge about the effects of Blackseed. If you have any questions, feel free to leave a comment below the article to receive accurate answers from Quatest!
