Botanical

Black seed oil

Nigella sativa, also called kalonji

Oil pressed from the seeds of Nigella sativa, a spice used in South Asian, Middle Eastern and North African cooking.

Evidence
C Mostly low-certainty findings; little research on immune outcomes
Studied for
Immune support, blood sugar and blood pressure measures

What studies found

Reviews of human trials looked mostly at measures other than immune health, and most findings were low or very low certainty. Some studies found black seed lowered blood sugar and blood pressure measures. Stomach upset was the most common side effect in trials.

How much is in our products

ProductAmount
Oil of Oregano + Black Seed Oil 200 mg per 2-softgel serving (thymoquinone amount not stated)

In studies: About 2.5–5 mL of oil a day in many trials.

Our 200 mg is much lower than the amounts most trials used.

Who should take care

It could add to the effects of blood sugar or blood pressure medicines. Ask first if you take blood thinners or immune-suppressing medicines, or have surgery coming up. Possible side effects include upset stomach, nausea or diarrhea; taking it with food can help.

Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before starting a supplement if you take any medicine, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a health condition.

Read more in our guides

Sources

  1. Li Z, et al. 2023. Nigella sativa and health outcomes: an overview of systematic reviews and meta-analyses

This page is for general education and isn't medical advice. *These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.