Black Cumin

Nigella sativa

Nigella sativa, commonly known as black seed or kalonji, originates from traditional medicine in the Middle East and parts of Asia. Traditionally, it has been used for a variety of ailments including respiratory issues, digestive problems, and skin conditions, though specific uses vary among different cultural practices. Scientific evidence suggests that Nigella sativa may have potential benefits such as reducing phlebitis incidence and showing antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects in Alzheimer's disease models; however, these findings are preliminary and require further investigation to confirm their robustness. Experimental studies indicate that black cumin oil might also be effective against cutaneous leishmaniasis, though the evidence is limited by methodological weaknesses. Additionally, Nigella sativa has shown varying antibacterial activity with stronger effects on Gram-positive bacteria compared to Gram-negative ones. Safety and drug interaction concerns are currently not well-documented; no major issues have been recorded, and there are no reported interactions with other medications.

At a glance
Best evidence
A
Cautions

Informational only. Traditional use does not mean proven effectiveness. Evidence and safety vary — check the cited sources.

What the science says

  • Phlebitis incidence was lower in the sesame oil and Nigella sativa oil groups compared to the control group. B PMID
  • Experimental studies suggest thymoquinone from Nigella sativa may have potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective effects in Alzheimer's disease models. D PMID
  • Nigella sativa showed potential as an adjunct therapy for cutaneous leishmaniasis in some studies, but evidence is limited by methodological weaknesses. A PMID
  • Black cumin oil showed varying antibacterial activity against tested strains, with stronger effects on Gram-positive bacteria compared to Gram-negative ones. D PMID
  • Nigella sativa supplementation led to modest reductions in weight, BMI, blood pressure, and fasting blood sugar levels in patients with metabolic diseases. A PMID

Frequently asked questions

What is Black Cumin?

Black Cumin (Nigella sativa) is a plant documented in FolkKB's traditional-medicine reference, drawn from sourced literature and cross-checked against the evidence.

What does the scientific evidence say about Black Cumin?

5 sourced findings are recorded for Black Cumin; the strongest carries evidence grade A. For example: Phlebitis incidence was lower in the sesame oil and Nigella sativa oil groups compared to the control group.

How strong is the evidence for Black Cumin?

The strongest finding for Black Cumin carries evidence grade A — strong evidence. Grades run A (strongest) to D (preliminary or traditional).

Is Black Cumin safe? What are the side effects?

No major safety issues are recorded for Black Cumin in our sources, but the data may be incomplete. Consult a qualified professional before use.

Does Black Cumin interact with medications?

No drug interactions are recorded for Black Cumin in our sources. This does not rule them out — check with a pharmacist.

What are the common names of Black Cumin?

Black Cumin is also known as: чернушка посевная, Nigelle cultivée.

Is Black Cumin a proven treatment?

No. FolkKB is informational only. Traditional use and early findings are not proof of efficacy or safety — consult a qualified professional and never self-treat.

Sources

  1. T2 The Effect of Nigella sativa Supplementation on Cardiometabolic Health in Patients With Metabolic Diseases: A GRADE-Assessed Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. literature abstract metadata
  2. T2 Effect of sesame oil and Nigella sativa oil on the prevention of amiodarone-induced phlebitis: a randomized controlled trial. literature abstract metadata
  3. T2 Plant-based therapeutics for leishmaniasis: A systematic review emphasizing human studies and clinical trial evidence. literature abstract metadata
  4. T2 A review on thymoquinone: a promising therapeutic molecule in Alzheimer's. literature abstract metadata
  5. T2 Antibacterial Activity and Molecular Docking Studies of Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.) Oil and Its Comparison with Some Antibiotics. literature abstract metadata