Researchers tested whether specially prepared samh seeds could help rats on unhealthy, high-fat diets. They compared raw seeds, sprouted seeds, and fermented seeds (seeds that were allowed to break down naturally). After 8 weeks, rats eating fermented samh seeds showed the biggest improvements: lower cholesterol, better blood sugar control, less inflammation, and healthier livers. The fermented version worked better than the other preparations. While this is promising, these results are from rats, so we need human studies before recommending this as a treatment.

The Quick Take

  • What they studied: Whether fermented, sprouted, or raw samh seeds could protect rats’ livers and reduce cholesterol when eating a high-fat diet
  • Who participated: 48 laboratory rats divided into 6 groups, with some eating normal food and others eating high-fat food with or without different types of samh seed flour
  • Key finding: Fermented samh seeds worked best—rats eating them gained less weight, had lower cholesterol and blood sugar, less inflammation, and healthier livers compared to rats eating only high-fat food
  • What it means for you: This suggests fermented seeds might someday help people with high cholesterol and liver problems, but we need human studies first. Don’t replace medical treatment with this yet.

The Research Details

Scientists divided 48 rats into six groups. One group ate normal, healthy food. Another group ate high-fat food (like eating junk food all the time). The remaining four groups ate high-fat food mixed with 15% of different samh seed preparations: raw seeds, sprouted seeds, or fermented seeds. They fed the rats this way for 8 weeks, then measured their cholesterol, blood sugar, liver health, and inflammation markers.

The researchers chose fermentation because it’s an ancient food preparation method where natural bacteria break down seeds, making nutrients easier to absorb. They wanted to see if this process made the seeds more powerful at fighting the damage from unhealthy eating.

This type of study is called an animal model study. Scientists use it to test ideas before trying them in humans, because it’s faster and more controlled. However, what works in rats doesn’t always work the same way in people.

Testing in animals first helps scientists understand how a treatment works before risking human health. This study shows which preparation method (raw, sprouted, or fermented) is most effective, which guides future human research. Understanding the mechanism—how fermented seeds reduce inflammation and improve liver health—helps scientists develop better treatments.

This study has good points: it used multiple groups for comparison, measured many different health markers, and included physical examination of liver tissue under a microscope. However, it only tested rats, not humans. The study doesn’t mention if researchers were ‘blinded’ (unaware which group was which), which could affect results. The journal, Molecular Nutrition & Food Research, is respected in nutrition science. We need human studies to confirm these findings work the same way in people.

What the Results Show

Rats eating fermented samh seeds showed the most improvement across almost every measure. They gained significantly less weight than rats eating only high-fat food—about 30-40% less weight gain. Their cholesterol levels dropped dramatically, and their blood sugar control improved, meaning their bodies handled sugar better.

The fermented seeds also reduced inflammation markers. Think of inflammation like your body’s alarm system going off constantly—the fermented seeds helped turn down that alarm. Specifically, they lowered three major inflammation signals (TNF-alpha, IL-6, and IL-1 beta) that are linked to heart disease and liver damage.

Most importantly for liver health, fermented seeds increased the body’s natural antioxidant defenses—like giving your cells better armor against damage. They boosted three protective enzymes (SOD, catalase, and glutathione) while reducing a harmful molecule (malondialdehyde) that damages cells. When scientists looked at liver tissue under a microscope, the fermented seed group’s livers looked much healthier, with less scarring and damage.

Sprouted seeds (germinated seeds) also helped, but not as much as fermented seeds. Raw seeds provided some benefit but were the least effective of the three preparations. This suggests that processing the seeds—especially through fermentation—unlocks their protective power. The fermented seeds also increased IL-10, a molecule that helps calm inflammation and protect the body.

Previous research has shown that high-fat diets damage the liver and increase inflammation throughout the body. This study confirms that pattern in rats. Earlier studies on fermented foods have suggested they’re generally healthier than non-fermented versions because fermentation breaks down compounds into forms the body can use better. This research supports that idea specifically for samh seeds, though samh seeds are not widely studied in Western nutrition science.

This study only tested rats, not humans—our bodies work differently. The study doesn’t explain exactly which compounds in fermented seeds caused the benefits. We don’t know if the same dose (15% of food) would work in humans or if it would be safe long-term. The researchers don’t mention whether they were blinded to which group was which, which could introduce bias. We also don’t know if these seeds would work for people with existing liver disease or if they’d interact with medications.

The Bottom Line

This research is interesting but preliminary. It suggests fermented samh seeds might help prevent metabolic problems caused by unhealthy eating, but we cannot recommend them as a treatment yet. The evidence is ‘moderate’ at best because it’s only from animal studies. If you’re interested in protecting your liver and reducing cholesterol, proven approaches include eating more vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats; exercising regularly; and maintaining a healthy weight. Talk to your doctor before trying samh seeds, especially if you take medications.

This research matters most to scientists studying functional foods and liver disease. People with high cholesterol, fatty liver disease, or metabolic syndrome might find this interesting, but shouldn’t change their treatment based on this alone. People in regions where samh seeds are traditional foods might be more interested in this research. This doesn’t apply to people with seed allergies.

In the rat study, benefits appeared after 8 weeks. If this works in humans, it would likely take weeks to months to see changes in cholesterol or weight. However, we don’t have human data yet, so this timeline is just a guess based on the animal study.

Want to Apply This Research?

  • If you try fermented samh seeds (with doctor approval), track weekly: body weight, energy levels, and digestion quality. Record the amount consumed daily (in grams or tablespoons) to identify your optimal dose.
  • Start by adding 1-2 tablespoons of fermented samh seed flour to smoothies, yogurt, or oatmeal daily. Gradually increase to the study amount (about 15% of your diet) over 2-3 weeks to let your digestive system adjust. Log this in your app each time you consume it.
  • Track for 8-12 weeks (matching the study timeline). Monitor cholesterol levels through blood tests if possible (ask your doctor). Note changes in energy, digestion, and weight. If available, track inflammation markers through your doctor. Stop and consult your doctor if you experience digestive upset or allergic reactions.

This research was conducted in rats, not humans. Results in animals don’t always translate to humans. This study should not be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you have high cholesterol, liver disease, or metabolic syndrome, continue following your doctor’s treatment plan. Do not replace prescribed medications with samh seeds or any supplement without explicit approval from your healthcare provider. Fermented seeds may interact with certain medications or cause allergic reactions in sensitive individuals. Consult your doctor or registered dietitian before adding samh seeds to your diet, especially if you are pregnant, nursing, have a seed allergy, or take blood-thinning medications.