Last verified: 17 days ago
Black Seed Oil
Also known as: Nigella sativa oil, black cumin oil, kalonji oil, thymoquinone
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Plant oil with anti-inflammatory properties. Early evidence for liver and chemo-protection, but research is limited.
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What it does
Black seed oil comes from the Nigella sativa plant and contains an active compound called thymoquinone. Early clinical research suggests it may help protect the liver from drug-induced damage and...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose from provided studies
What the Science Says
Black seed oil comes from the Nigella sativa plant and contains an active compound called thymoquinone. Early clinical research suggests it may help protect the liver from drug-induced damage and reduce heart stress caused by certain chemotherapy drugs in children. Most human studies are small, and black seed oil is often tested as part of multi-ingredient combinations rather than on its own.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to treat cancer. No solid evidence it burns fat or boosts metabolism. The aromatherapy study used it as a carrier oil mixed with other essential oils — that's not evidence black seed oil alone relieves joint pain. Don't use it to replace prescribed medications.
Evidence-Based Benefits
May reduce liver enzyme elevations caused by methotrexate in children with leukemia.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 80 mg/kg/day
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
May help preserve heart function in children receiving doxorubicin chemotherapy.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 80 mg/kg/dose divided into 3 doses
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Part of a multi-ingredient nutraceutical blend that reduced liver fat in adults with fatty liver disease.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: No standalone dose established
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Unknown — no pharmacokinetic data provided in the available studies
Red Flags to Watch For
- Most human studies are very small (20-40 participants) and conducted in specific patient populations like children with leukemia — results may not apply to healthy adults
- Several studies test black seed oil as part of multi-ingredient blends, making it impossible to isolate its individual effect
- No standardized dosing exists for adults; pediatric doses used in studies cannot be directly translated to adult use
- Widely marketed for weight loss, immunity, and diabetes — none of these claims are supported by the provided clinical evidence
Products Containing Black Seed Oil
See how Black Seed Oil is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Black Seed Oil do?
Plant oil with anti-inflammatory properties. Early evidence for liver and chemo-protection, but research is limited.
What is the effective dose of Black Seed Oil?
No established dose from provided studies
Is Black Seed Oil safe?
Most human studies are very small (20-40 participants) and conducted in specific patient populations like children with leukemia — results may not apply to healthy adults
What doesn't Black Seed Oil do?
Not proven to treat cancer.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-05-25