Cumin and Black Cumin. Cumin (Fructus cumini) and black cumin are native herbs found in the eastern Mediterranean Region that were cultivated in ancient Egyptian gardens (9). Cumin has been found in Egyptian excavations and medical texts (7). It was prescribed against abscesses and other skin ailments. A paste of cumin seeds was applied topically for relief from skin irritation, and Coptic texts list black cumin as an ingredient in an antiseptic wash for itchy skin. Cumin was also used for toothaches and chewed to cure boils on the gums (9). A mixture of cumin and honey was prescribed for coughs. The fruits were used to increase nourishment intake (7).