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Black Seed Oil (Nigella Sativa)

Traditional seed oil showing promise for metabolic health, inflammation, and immune function in multiple small trials.

Human Trials

45

2,800 participants

Risk Level

Low Risk

Monthly Cost

$15$40 /month

Quality varies significantly between brands; cold-pressed oil typically costs more

Quick Facts

Category
Supplement
Research Field
Supplements
Evidence Grade
B- – Promising
Risk Level
Low
Monthly Cost
$15 – $40
Human Trials
45

Typical Dose

1–2 g/day (thymoquinone ~1–3%)

Range

0.5–3 g/day

Timingwith food
Formcold-pressed Nigella sativa oil or capsule
NotesLook for products with standardized thymoquinone content. Quality varies enormously between brands. Can lower blood pressure and blood glucose – monitor if on medications.

For informational purposes only – not medical advice. See disclaimer

Research Velocity

+20%
78 publications in the last 12 months · steady increase in publications

Mechanism of Action

Black seed oil contains thymoquinone and other bioactive compounds that appear to modulate inflammatory pathways, enhance antioxidant activity, and influence glucose metabolism. Research suggests it may work through NF-κB pathway inhibition, AMPK activation, and modulation of cytokine production. The oil's components may also support immune function through effects on T-cell proliferation and natural killer cell activity.

Overview

Black seed oil, extracted from Nigella sativa seeds, has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is now the subject of growing scientific interest. Research indicates that this oil contains numerous bioactive compounds, particularly thymoquinone, which may contribute to various health benefits. Multiple small-scale human trials suggest that black seed oil supplementation may help support healthy blood sugar levels, reduce inflammatory markers, and potentially aid in weight management.

Studies have investigated black seed oil's effects on metabolic health, with several trials showing modest improvements in glucose control and lipid profiles in people with type 2 diabetes. Additional research has explored its anti-inflammatory properties, with some evidence suggesting it may help reduce markers of systemic inflammation. The oil has also been studied for its potential cardiovascular benefits and immune system support, though most trials have been relatively small in scale.

While black seed oil appears to be well-tolerated by most people, research indicates it may interact with certain medications, particularly those affecting blood sugar or blood clotting. The quality of black seed oil products can vary significantly between manufacturers, with cold-pressed oils generally considered superior. As with any supplement, individuals should consult healthcare providers before use, especially those taking medications or managing chronic health conditions.

Known Interactions

  • May enhance effects of blood sugar-lowering medications
  • Could potentially interact with blood pressure medications
  • May increase bleeding risk when combined with anticoagulants
  • Possible interactions with immunosuppressive drugs due to immune-modulating effects

Legal Status by Country

📍

Your country (United States)

OTC
✈️

Available without prescription in:

Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, Colombia, Germany, India, Israel, Japan, Mexico, Netherlands, Panama, Russia, South Korea, Switzerland, Thailand, Turkey, UAE, United Kingdom, United States

Australia
OTC
✈️Brazil
OTC
Canada
OTC
China
OTC
✈️Colombia
OTC
Germany
OTC
✈️India
OTC
✈️Israel
OTC
Japan
OTC
✈️Mexico
OTC
Netherlands
OTC
✈️Panama
OTC
Russia
OTC
✈️South Korea
OTC
Switzerland
OTC
✈️Thailand
OTC
✈️Turkey
OTC
✈️UAE
OTC
United Kingdom
OTC
📍United States
OTC

📍 = your selected country · ✈️ = medical tourism destination · Always verify current local regulations before travel.

Key Research

Last verified: 2026-03-19