Black Seed Oil
Nigella sativa
B Limited clinical evidenceOil pressed from black seed. Small studies saw modest falls in blood sugar and cholesterol and limited benefit in asthma.
Image: Herbadex Botanik Stüdyosu · Özel Üretim
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At a glance
Black seed oil is cold-pressed from Nigella sativa seeds and contains thymoquinone. Small clinical studies suggest 1–3 g a day may modestly lower blood sugar and cholesterol and slightly improve asthma symptoms. Applied to skin it can cause allergic contact dermatitis. Thymoquinone content varies widely between products.
Updated: October 15, 2026
ℹ Compiled from standard pharmacognosy references and clinical literature summaries where no formal EMA monograph exists.
What is it used for?
B Limited clinical evidence
Limited clinical evidence: Supported by small-scale human clinical studies, though sample size and study quality are limited.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Small studies suggest it may help modestly lower blood sugar and cholesterol. [1]
C Laboratory / animal evidence
Laboratory / animal evidence: Based only on laboratory (in vitro) or animal studies; not clinically proven in humans.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Traditionally used in skin care; lab studies showed anti-inflammatory effects. [1]
B Limited clinical evidence
Limited clinical evidence: Supported by small-scale human clinical studies, though sample size and study quality are limited.
How do we rate evidence levels? →Small studies reported it may help ease asthma symptoms. [1]
How is it used?
Safety & interactions
- Allergic contact dermatitis has been reported on skin; stop if redness occurs.
- Kidney and liver problems have rarely been reported with high-dose, long-term use.
- People on diabetes or blood pressure medicines should monitor their values.
- Do not use as a supplement in pregnancy (may affect uterine contractions).
Drug interactions
| Medicine / substance | Effect | Severity |
|---|---|---|
| Diabetes medicines | May further lower blood sugar. [2] | Moderate |
| Anticoagulants | Could theoretically raise bleeding risk. [2] | Minor |
| Blood pressure medicines | May further lower blood pressure. [2] | Minor |
Side effects
- Nausea, bloating
- Allergic skin rash (external use)
⚕ When to see a doctor
- If high fever, shortness of breath or purulent/bloody phlegm develops
- If symptoms do not improve within 1–2 weeks or worsen
- If severe abdominal pain, jaundice, rash or allergic reaction occurs
Did you know?
The oil's sharp, peppery taste comes from its thymoquinone. [1]
Frequently asked questions
How is black seed oil taken?
Studies used 1–3 g (about 1–3 teaspoons) daily with food; avoid high doses.
Can black seed oil be applied to skin?
Diluted, yes, but allergic reactions occur; patch-test first.
Does black seed oil boost immunity?
This popular claim has not been shown in reliable human studies.
Sources
- WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants (Volumes 1–4)World Health Organization · 2009
- Herbs at a Glance: Evidence-Based Fact Sheets on Botanical ProductsNIH NCCIH · 2024
Cite This Page
Black Seed Oil (Nigella sativa). Herbadex — Doğal Şifa Rehberi (2026). https://herbadex.com/en/herb/black-seed-oil/
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