Page 57 - EJMO-9-1

Eurasian Journal of Medicine and
Oncology
Integrative prophetic medicine

increasingly supporting the benefits of these treatments. Researchers have identified several active components
As of March 2024, a search of PubMed, a major medical within the seed, including thymoquinone, which is safe in
research database, revealed a significant number of studies clinical trials. 41-43 The potential antiviral properties of N.
on common PM therapies: olive oil (4,622), honey (3,122), sativa are noteworthy; studies, including those focused on
black seed (1,255), vinegar (1,015), N. sativa (another coronaviruses, suggest that the seed may help combat viral
term for black seed, 1,014), and cupping therapy (959), as infections and reduce viral load. 44-48 In addition, the seed
presented in Table 1. possesses immune-boosting effects, helping the body to
fight infections. 49,50 Interestingly, N. sativa can also act as
4. PM: An IM model an anti-inflammatory agent, reducing inflammation under

IM seeks to synergistically amalgamate conventional various conditions. Other reported benefits include pain
medicine with CAM modalities. Within this paradigm, relief, fever reduction, and bronchodilation. 51,52
numerous investigations have examined the therapies Studies have also shown that N. sativa may provide
associated with PM. While empirical evidence supporting cardiovascular protection by shielding the heart from
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the efficacy of all PM therapies remains limited, certain the harmful effects of reactive oxygen species, potentially
modalities demonstrate potential as adjunctive interventions. reducing heart damage and complications associated with
These therapies may offer ancillary benefits by mitigating high blood pressure. N. sativa shows promise in cancer
adverse effects, such as fatigue, nausea, and pain. 38,39 This research; a key component – the dark pigment of the seed coat
suggests that selected, well-substantiated PM practices (herbal melanin) – has been shown to inhibit the proliferation
could serve as suitable candidates for the development of an of acute monocytic leukemia cells. In addition, N. sativa has
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IM model. This section will outline the most scientifically shown potential in inducing apoptosis in lymphoma cells,
validated PM practices within each component of PM. suggesting therapeutic applications for certain cancers. 54

4.1. Herbal and food therapy 4.1.2. Honey
Numerous prophetic traditions reference the beneficial Honey, a natural sugary liquid packed with nutrients, has
properties of over 60 botanicals and food items. Within the long been celebrated for its health benefits. Research shows
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domain of PM, certain herbs assume paramount importance, that honey contains unique antioxidants and possess distinct
captivating considerable scientific scrutiny. A diverse array of antibacterial properties. Clinical studies suggest that honey
scholars, including botanists, biochemists, natural product may outperform modern wound dressings due to its healing
specialists, and medical researchers, are keenly interested in effects and antimicrobial properties. 56,57 In particular,
exploring the multifaceted aspects of these botanicals. Their reviews have demonstrated that honey is effective in treating
investigations encompass a comprehensive exploration venous ulcers, with patients reporting positive outcomes. 58
of their therapeutic potential, their capacity to enhance
In addition, honey acts as a prebiotic, promoting the
overall well-being, and the identification of the bioactive growth of beneficial gut bacteria, such as Lactobacillus
constituents responsible for their unique properties. This and Bifidobacterium, which may help alleviate various
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section will focus on a selected group of “prophetic herbs” 59
that have garnered substantial scientific attention. gastrointestinal issues. Studies have shown that the
antioxidant and antimicrobial properties of honey
4.1.1. Black seeds can soothe coughs and improve sleep in children and
adults at a dosage of 2.5 mL. Honey may also help in
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N. sativa, a seed with a long history of culinary and managing gastroesophageal reflux disease by coating
medicinal use, is garnering renewed scientific interest.
the esophagus and stomach lining, thereby reducing
acid reflux. Furthermore, it promotes tissue repair in the
Table 1. References on prophetic medicine therapies
identified through a PubMed search (March 2024) sphincter muscle, preventing acid from backing up. In
addition, a clinical study suggested that honey can lower
Prophetic medicine treatment Number of citations bad cholesterol levels and prevent blood sugar spikes in
Olive oil 4,622 individuals with high cholesterol. Some research even
Honey 3,122 indicates that honey may have the potential to prevent
Black seed 1,255 cancer by inhibiting cancer development. 61,62
Vinegar 1,015 4.1.3. Dates
Nigella sativa 1,014 The date palm is often referred to as the “tree of life” and
Cupping therapy 959 is valued for its delicious fruits. These nutritious fruits

Volume 9 Issue 1 (2025) 49 doi: 10.36922/ejmo.6765