Black Seed (Black Cumin)

Nigella sativa L.

Family: Ranunculaceae Part Used: Seed Evidence-Based

📝 Common Names (6 Languages)

EnglishBlack Seed (Black Cumin)
Hindiकलौंजी (Kalonji)
Urduکلونجی (Kalonji)
Arabicالحبة السوداء (Al-Habbah As-Sawda)
FrenchNigelle
SpanishComino negro

✅ Evidence-Based Benefits

Sacred seed with 1400+ years Islamic medicine use. Comprehensive meta-analysis demonstrates improved glycemic control in diabetes: HbA1c reduction -0.55%, fasting glucose -20 mg/dL (PMID: 24481161). Systematic review shows blood pressure reduction: systolic -3.8 mmHg, diastolic -2.1 mmHg (PMID: 23867046). Lipid improvement, immune support, anti-inflammatory. Prophet Muhammad: "Black seed is cure for every disease except death."

📚 Key Citations:

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🔬 Clinical Trials & Evidence

⚕️ Evidence-Based Research: Clinical trials provide the highest level of evidence for herbal efficacy and safety. The trials listed below represent peer-reviewed research registered on ClinicalTrials.gov. Each trial includes detailed protocols, patient populations, interventions tested, and measurable outcomes. Click links to access full trial details and published results.

Meta-analysis: Diabetes glycemic improvement

Systematic review: Blood pressure reduction

💊 Drug Interactions

Important: Always inform your healthcare provider about all herbs and supplements you are taking.

Antidiabetic Medications (All classes)

Effect: May lower blood glucose

Mechanism: Improves insulin sensitivity and secretion

Action: Monitor blood glucose closely. May allow medication dose reduction

Evidence: Meta-analysis (PMID: 24481161)

Antihypertensives (All classes)

Effect: May lower blood pressure (-3.8/-2.1 mmHg)

Mechanism: Calcium channel blocking, ACE inhibition

Action: Monitor BP regularly. May enhance medication effects

Evidence: Systematic review (PMID: 23867046)

Anticoagulants (Warfarin)

Effect: May enhance anticoagulant effects

Action: Monitor INR. Watch for bleeding signs

Immunosuppressants

Effect: Immunomodulatory properties may interact

Action: Consult healthcare provider before combining

Sedatives

Effect: May enhance sedative effects

Action: Use caution with CNS depressants

⚠️ Safety Information

Adverse Events

Generally safe at culinary doses (<3g/day). Higher therapeutic doses may cause mild gastrointestinal upset (~5% users). Rare allergic contact dermatitis. Topical oil may cause skin irritation. Avoid high doses (>5g/day) in pregnancy - may stimulate uterus.

⛔ Contraindications

Avoid high doses during pregnancy (may stimulate contractions). Caution with anticoagulants, antihypertensives, and diabetes medications due to additive effects. May enhance sedative effects. Discontinue 2 weeks before surgery. May lower seizure threshold in epilepsy (rare).

🧬 Mechanism of Action

Thymoquinone (30-50% of volatile oil) provides potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulatory effects. Improves insulin sensitivity and beta cell function. Lowers blood pressure via calcium channel blocking and ACE inhibition. Antioxidant capacity superior to many antioxidants.

💊 Dosage & Administration

1-3g seed powder daily OR 500-1000mg oil in capsules (typically 40-50% thymoquinone). Can add whole seeds to food. Topical oil: dilute with carrier oil for skin conditions. Traditional: 1 teaspoon seeds with honey. Effects on metabolic parameters after 8-12 weeks.

⚕️ Note: Consult healthcare provider for appropriate dosing, especially if taking medications.

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Data Retrieval: November 29, 2025 | Compiled by: Sheraz Ahmed

License: CC BY-SA 4.0

Citation: Ahmed, S. (2025). Medicinal Herbs Database. Clinical Corner. https://welovelmc.com/medical-tools.htm

⚕️ Medical Disclaimer

FOR EDUCATIONAL PURPOSES ONLY: This information is provided for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

⚠️ Important Warnings:

🔬 Evidence Limitations: While this database includes peer-reviewed research and clinical trial data, individual results may vary. Drug interactions and contraindications are based on current research and may change as new evidence emerges.

⚖️ Liability: The author, compiler (Sheraz Ahmed), and publisher disclaim any liability arising from the use or misuse of information contained in this database. This is not medical advice.