As the world struggles to develop a vaccine for the deadly Covid-19, which has claimed a heavy toll, the focus is on adhering to the recommended health guidelines and boost the human immune system as part of ‘best practices’ to avoid contracting the virus.

The role of Ayurveda medicine in controlling the corona pandemic has become a key topic of discussion in the current context. Various herbs that have been traditionally used in the past to boost the body’s immune system, are now being used widely not only in Sri Lanka but also in many other countries across the globe, says native physician, Prof. M. H. A. Thisera.

Black seed has also emerged as a much talked of potent herb that helps in controlling corona the world over. Many current scientific experiments have proven that black seed has the potential to boost the immune system, he asserted.

With a history spanning 3,000 years, black seed is still used as a traditional medicine for various ailments, including boosting the immune system. The use of black seed is highly recommended in Ayurveda and Unani medicine, he noted.

Through studies conducted by several recognized universities around the world, it’s proven that Thymoquinone, the main pharmacological active ingredient in black seed, supports to enhance the body’s immune system. This substance increases the number of white blood cells in the blood and its vigor destroys toxins such as bacteria and viruses that enter the body, Prof. Thisera further said.