Introduction
Pancreatic cancer is known to be one of the most
aggressive and deadly forms of cancer, with a very low survival rate. Patients
diagnosed with pancreatic cancer often experience severe symptoms such as pain,
weight loss, and jaundice. However, recent studies have shown that Nigella
Sativa Seed Oil, also known as black seed oil, may have positive effects on
alleviating the symptoms associated with pancreatic cancer.
Experience with Nigella Sativa Seed (Black cumin seed)
Oil
Nigella Sativa Seed Oil has been used for centuries in
traditional medicine for its various health benefits. It has anti-inflammatory,
antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties that make it a popular natural
supplement for treating cancer cells. The oil is extracted from the seeds of
the Nigella Sativa plant, which is native to Southwest Asia.
Expertise in Pancreatic Cancer
Pancreatic cancer is a complex disease that requires a
comprehensive treatment approach. From surgery to chemotherapy and radiation
therapy, the treatment options for pancreatic cancer are limited and often have
severe side effects. This is where the potential benefits of Nigella Sativa
Seed Oil come into play.
Nigella Sativa Seed Oil has shown promising results in
helping with pancreatic cancer symptoms. Studies have shown that the oil has
anti-cancer effects by inhibiting the growth of cancer cells and promoting apoptosis,
or cell death, in cancerous cells. Additionally, the oil has been found to
reduce inflammation, which is a common symptom in pancreatic cancer patients.
Black seed oil is considered safe for most people when
used in moderate amounts. However, it is always recommended to consult with a
healthcare professional before incorporating it into your treatment plan,
especially if you are currently undergoing cancer treatment. It is important to
note that while Nigella Sativa Seed Oil may help with symptoms, it is not a
cure for pancreatic cancer.
Can Nigella Sativa Seed Oil Help with Pancreatic Cancer
Symptoms?
Research suggests that Nigella Sativa Seed Oil may help
with pancreatic cancer symptoms by reducing inflammation, promoting cell death
in cancerous cells, and inhibiting the growth of cancer cells. However, more
studies are needed to fully understand the potential benefits of black seed oil
in the treatment of pancreatic cancer.
Research, 2008
According to Hwyda Arafat, M.D., Ph.D., associate
professor of Surgery at Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University,
nigella sativa helps treat a broad array of diseases, including some immune and
inflammatory disorders. Previous studies also have shown anticancer activity in
prostate and colon cancers, as well as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
effects.
Using a human pancreatic cancer cell line, she and her
team found that adding thymoquinone killed approximately 80 percent of the
cancer cells. They demonstrated that thymoquinone triggered programmed cell
death in the cells, and that a number of important genes, including p53, Bax,
bcl-2 and p21, were affected. The researchers found that expression of p53, a
tumor suppressor gene, and Bax, a gene that promotes programmed cell death, was
increased, while bcl-2, which blocks such cell death, was decreased. The p21 gene,
which is involved in the regulation of different phases of the cell cycle, was
substantially increased.
Dr. Arafat and her co-workers also found that
thymoquinone caused "epigenetic" changes in pancreatic cancer cells,
modifying the cells' DNA. She explains that these changes involve adding acetyl
groups to the DNA structure, specifically to blocks of proteins called
histones. This "acetylation" process can be important for genes to be
read and translated into proteins. In this case, it could involve the genes
that are key to initiating programmed cell death.
At the same time, adding thymoquinone to pancreatic
cancer cells reduced the production and activity of enzymes called histone
deacetylases (HDACs), which remove the acetyl groups from the histone proteins,
halting the gene transcription process. Dr. Arafat notes that HDAC inhibitors
are a "hot" new class of drugs that interfere with the function of
histone deacetylases, and is being studied as a treatment for cancer and
neurodegenerative diseases. Finding that thymoquinone functions as an HDAC
inhibitor, she says, "was very remarkable and really exciting."
Conclusion
In conclusion, Nigella Sativa Seed Oil shows promise in
helping with pancreatic cancer symptoms due to its anti-inflammatory,
antioxidant, and anti-cancer properties. While more research is needed to
confirm its efficacy, incorporating black seed oil into your treatment plan may
provide some relief from the symptoms associated with pancreatic cancer.
Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any
new supplement regimen.
