Nigella Sativa L. Publisher



Naghizadeh A¹ Show Affiliations
Source: Therapeutic Medicinal Plants in Traditional Persian Medicine Published:2024

Abstract

Commonly known as black cumin, Nigella sativa L. comprises many chemical constituents, the most important of which are thymoquinone, p-cymene, and α-thujene. TPM recommends this herb for many conditions, including infections, musculoskeletal pain, respiratory, neurologic, urogenital, and gastrointestinal diseases. Moreover, black cumin is mentioned to enhance sexual function. According to meta-analyses, black cumin is beneficial in the management of hypertension, hyperlipidemia, diabetes, obesity, and asthma. There are also meta-analyses showing black cumin to enhance liver and kidney parameters and ameliorate oxidative stress. According to clinical trials, black cumin can also improve neurological functions, including memory and cognition. RCTs also showed beneficial effects in infections and infertility, which are in line with TPM references. Preclinical research on N. sativa extract and oil shows promising evidence regarding protective effects on tissues. In fact, this herb can reverse injuries in various organs or protect them from deleterious effects of toxins. Black cumin is generally safe when taken in amounts found in food. © 2024 Taylor and Francis Group, LLC.