Dr. Grey AI

Black Seed Oil

Black seed oil from Nigella sativa contains thymoquinone as the primary bioactive. A GRADE-assessed meta-analysis (82 RCTs, n=5026) found significant improvements in BMI, blood pressure, and lipids. Meta-analysis for T2DM (16 RCTs): reduced fasting glucose (-21.43 mg/dL), HbA1c (-0.44%), total cholesterol (-18.80 mg/dL), and LDL (-19.53 mg/dL). Meta-analysis for lipids (34 studies, n=2278): large reductions in TC (SMD -1.78), TG (SMD -1.27), and LDL-C (SMD -2.45). Oil form more effective than powder for most outcomes. Optimal dose: 3000mg/day for 12 weeks.

Quick Answer

What it is

Black seed oil from Nigella sativa contains thymoquinone as the primary bioactive. A GRADE-assessed meta-analysis (82 RCTs, n=5026) found significant improvements in BMI, blood pressure, and lipids.

Key findings

  • Grade A: LDL Cholesterol (High Cholesterol)
  • Grade A: Total Cholesterol (High Cholesterol)
  • Grade A: Fasting Blood Glucose (Type 2 Diabetes)

Safety

No specific caution or interaction language was detected in the current summary/outcome notes.

ℹ️ Quick Facts: Black Seed Oil

Quick Facts: Black Seed Oil

  • Best Evidence:Grade A
  • Conditions Studied:5
  • Research Outcomes:8
  • Grade A Findings:4
  • Grade B Findings:4
  • Key Effect:Type 2 Diabetes
Outcomes by grade:
A4
B4
C0
D0
5 conditions · 8 outcomes

Detailed Outcomes

|
A
LDL Cholesterol
Meta-analysis (2024): Large LDL-C reduction (SMD -2.45, 95% CI -3.06 to -1.85, p<0.001). T2DM meta-analysis: LDL reduced by -19.53 mg/dL (p=0.003).
34 studies
large↓Improves
A
Total Cholesterol
Meta-analysis: Significant TC reduction (SMD -1.78, 95% CI -2.20 to -1.37, p<0.001). T2DM meta-analysis: TC reduced by -18.80 mg/dL (p=0.04).
34 studies
large↓Improves
B
Triglycerides
Meta-analysis: Significant TG reduction (SMD -1.27, 95% CI -1.67 to -0.83, p<0.001). Oil form more effective than powder.
34 studies
moderate↓Improves
A
Fasting Blood Glucose
Meta-analysis (16 RCTs): FBG reduced by -21.43 mg/dL (p=0.005). Another meta-analysis: WMD -15.18 mg/dL (95% CI -19.82 to -10.55). Effect stronger with oil form >1g/day and duration >8 weeks.
16 studies
moderate↓Improves
A
HbA1c
Meta-analyses: Consistently reduced HbA1c by -0.44% to -0.45% (p<0.01). Effect more pronounced with higher doses (>1g/day).
12 studies
moderate↓Improves
B
Blood Pressure
GRADE meta-analysis (82 RCTs): Significantly improved BP. Oil form more effective for both SBP and DBP. Optimal results at 3000mg/day for 12 weeks.
15 studies
moderate↓Improves
B
Body Weight and BMI
GRADE meta-analysis: Significantly improves BMI. 6-12 weeks supplementation lowers bodyweight and anthropometric indices.
12 studies
small↓Improves
B
Inflammatory Markers (CRP)
Meta-analysis: Significant reduction in CRP and MDA. Immunomodulatory effects on Th1/Th2 balance demonstrated.
10 studies
moderate↓Improves

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