Black Seed (Nigella sativa)

Commonly used for
InflammationMetabolic HealthMetabolic Syndrome
Where to Buy
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What is it? / Overview
Black seed contains thymoquinone, a bioactive compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. Clinical trials suggest modest improvements in blood glucose, lipid levels, and inflammatory markers, though it should be considered an adjunct rather than a primary therapy.
How is it used? / Administration
Form: Standardized extract or cold-pressed oil, standardized for thymoquinone where possible
Typical dose studied: 500–2,000 mg/day seed extract or 2.5–5 mL/day oil
Timing: With meals
Choose products standardized for thymoquinone content. Evidence strongest for metabolic and inflammatory outcomes. Avoid medicinal doses in pregnancy -- worth stating plainly even though the platform's own intake flow already hard-blocks recommendation generation for anyone reporting current pregnancy.
How well does it work? / Evidence
? Emerging / limited evidence
Who should avoid it?
Interacts with: Diabetes medications; Antihypertensive medications; Anticoagulants — use caution
Already taking it? Monitor blood glucose if used alongside diabetes medications.
Research & references
Koshak AE et al. (2020). Nigella sativa pharmacological effects review. Phytotherapy Research. Daryabeygi-Khotbehsara R et al. (2021). Nigella sativa and inflammation/oxidative stress meta-analysis. Journal of Food Biochemistry. Heshmati J, Namazi N. (2015). Black seed and metabolic parameters systematic review. Complementary Therapies in Medicine.
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