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Nigella sativa (Black Cumin)
Thymoquinone-rich oil studied for immune modulation, blood sugar control, and anti-inflammatory effects across numerous trials.
What the evidence says
Black Seed Oil appears to help in 11 of 12 studies with measurable effects — the evidence leans clearly favourable.
Most evidence is from high-quality meta-analyses and randomised trials published 2005–2026 with a typical study size of 800 participants.
Based on 59 studies · 26 meta-analyses · 5 RCTs · 35,698 total participants
Confidence
HighWhat the studies found
By outcome
Black Seed Oil has an evidence score of 8/10 — strong evidence based on 57 indexed studies, including 21 meta-analyses. Thymoquinone-rich oil studied for immune modulation, blood sugar control, and anti-inflammatory effects across numerous trials.
The commonly studied dose of Black Seed Oil is 1-3g oil (or 200-400mg thymoquinone). Research points to an estimated optimal dose around 2000mg oil, with a minimum effective dose near 1000mg oil. Individual response varies — start low and adjust.
The best time to take Black Seed Oil is with meals. Take it with food. Black seed oil (Nigella sativa) contains thymoquinone as its primary bioactive compound.
Last reviewed May 2026 · evidence from 40 studies · how we score
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any supplement or medication.
Black seed oil comes from Nigella sativa, a plant with a long history in traditional medicine across cultures. Its main active compound, thymoquinone, has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Research supports benefits for immune function, blood sugar, blood pressure, and inflammation.
Powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound
Supports balanced immune response
How Black Seed Oil works — from molecular targets to health outcomes. Click an edge to see supporting research.This visualization is in beta — pathways are being refined and expanded.
1-3g oil (or 200-400mg thymoquinone)
Take with food
| Form | Type |
|---|---|
| 💊Cold-pressed oil softgels | Recommended |
| 💧Liquid oil | Alternative |
| 🧪Seed powder | Alternative |
Look for cold-pressed, organic oil with high thymoquinone content. Softgels avoid the strong taste.
Minimum: 4 weeks
Optimal: 8 weeks
Cycling: Not required
Note: Taking with food improves absorption and reduces potential GI upset. Has a strong, peppery taste.
Based on meta-analysis of 1086 participants showing significant reductions in CRP and TNF-α, but no effect on IL-6. High heterogeneity between studies limits confidence.
Strengthened immune function
Lower inflammatory markers
Better blood sugar and cholesterol
Avoid — insufficient safety data, may affect uterus
May increase bleeding risk
May enhance blood sugar lowering
May have additive effects
Tip: Take with food
Tip: Discontinue if rash occurs
Black Seed Oil is generally well-tolerated and considered safe for most healthy adults at recommended doses. The most commonly reported side effects are GI upset, contact dermatitis (topical). Use caution if any of these apply to you: Pregnancy (may affect uterine contractions); Before surgery.
Berberine
Likely helpsActivates AMPK to regulate blood sugar, improve insulin sensitivity, and support lipid metabolism — comparable to metformin in some trials.
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