Black seed
Black seed (Nigella sativa) is one of the most evidence-backed supplements in the database. A-GRADE for allergy symptoms (3 RCTs, 257 participants, moderate improvement). B-GRADE for blood glucose (29 RCTs, 3679 participants), blood pressure (22 RCTs, 1527 participants), and C-reactive protein (11 RCTs, 727 participants). Thymoquinone is the primary active compound. Traditional Islamic medicine ('the cure for everything except death'). Extensive human research supports benefits for metabolic and inflammatory conditions. Generally safe with few drug interactions.
Quick Answer
What it is
Black seed (Nigella sativa) is one of the most evidence-backed supplements in the database. A-GRADE for allergy symptoms (3 RCTs, 257 participants, moderate improvement).
Key findings
- Grade A: Allergy Symptoms (Allergic Rhinitis (Seasonal Allergies / Hay Fever))
- Grade B: Blood glucose
- Grade B: Blood Pressure
Safety
No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.
βΉοΈ Quick Facts: Black seed
Quick Facts: Black seed
- Best Evidence:Grade A
- Conditions Studied:18
- Research Outcomes:111
- Grade A Findings:1
- Grade B Findings:7
- Key Effect:Allergic Rhinitis (Seasonal Allergies / Hay Fever)
Detailed Outcomes
Evidence by Condition
Best grade per condition (each condition may have multiple outcomes)
Research Citations (33)
Related Supplements
Fish Oil
14 shared conditions Β· 448 outcomes
Fish oil is a mix of mostly EPA and DHA derived from fatty fish. It reduces triglycerides, but does not seem to affect the rate of cardiovascular events. It appears to reduce the symptoms of depression and improve some painful, inflammatory conditions.
Curcumin
14 shared conditions Β· 502 outcomes
Curcumin is the primary bioactive substance in turmeric. It has anti-inflammatory properties and can alleviate symptoms of depression as well as improve pain and function in people with osteoarthritis.
L-Carnitine
14 shared conditions Β· 558 outcomes
L-carnitine can relieve leg pain in people with peripheral artery disease (PAD) and treat some aspects of metabolic syndrome. Although itβs often also used for fat loss, its effectiveness for that is questionable.
Vitamin D
13 shared conditions Β· 308 outcomes
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that our skin synthesizes when exposed to the sun. It benefits us in many ways, from bone health to mood.
Spirulina
12 shared conditions Β· 304 outcomes
Spirulina, commonly known as βblue-green algaeβ, is a nontoxic cyanobacterium that is rich in various nutrients and bioactive pigments and polyphenols. Spirulina contains many antioxidant compounds and could have beneficial cardiometabolic effects.
Saffron
12 shared conditions Β· 390 outcomes
Saffron is a spice with antioxidant properties derived from the flowering plant Crocus sativus. When used as a supplement, saffron seems to be effective at reducing symptoms of depression and possibly anxiety.
Resveratrol
12 shared conditions Β· 318 outcomes
Resveratrol is a bioactive molecule found in plant sources such as grapes, peanuts, blueberries, and, famously, red wine. Resveratrol has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that benefit cardiovascular function, glycemic control, and lipid metabolism. Although itβs promoted for lifespan extension, thereβs no evidence for this in humans and limited evidence in animals.
Probiotics
11 shared conditions Β· 215 outcomes
Probiotics are microorganisms that can have a positive effect on health.