Indications
Nigella sativa (black seed, known in Bangladesh as kalo jeera or kalonji) is used as a herbal medicine, either as seed powder, extract or oil. It is traditionally used for digestive complaints, cough and asthma, joint pain, and as a general tonic. In herbal combination products it is often included to support blood sugar control in type 2 diabetes. Some small studies suggest modest effects on blood sugar, blood pressure and cholesterol, but evidence is limited and it must not replace prescribed diabetes treatment.
How It Works
Black seed contains an oil rich in a natural compound called thymoquinone, along with other substances. These are thought to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, to help the body respond better to insulin, and to reduce sugar release from the liver. The exact effects in people are not fully understood.
Dosage and Administration
Take as directed on the label or by a registered practitioner, usually with or after meals. Use in food amounts is generally safe; do not exceed the recommended dose of concentrated products. If you have diabetes, keep taking your prescribed medicines and check your blood sugar regularly.
Interactions
- It may lower blood sugar further with diabetes medicines such as Metformin, Gliclazide or Insulin; watch for low sugar.
- It may lower blood pressure further with blood pressure medicines.
- It may slow blood clotting; take care with Warfarin, Aspirin or Clopidogrel.
- It may add to drowsiness with sedative medicines.
Contraindications
- Allergy to black seed or any ingredient.
- Bleeding disorders, or within 2 weeks before planned surgery.
- Medicinal doses in pregnancy.
Side Effects
It is usually well tolerated in normal amounts. Possible effects include stomach upset, nausea, bloating, constipation and, with the oil on the skin, an itchy rash. Low blood sugar may occur in people taking diabetes medicines.
Get urgent medical help if you have signs of very low blood sugar (shaking, sweating, confusion, fainting), unusual bleeding, or a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the face or difficulty breathing.
Pregnancy and Lactation
Using black seed as a spice in food is considered safe. Medicinal amounts should be avoided in pregnancy, as large doses may cause womb contractions. There is not enough information for breastfeeding; use only if a doctor advises it.
Precautions and Warnings
- Diabetes needs regular medical care; do not stop or change prescribed medicines without your doctor.
- People with low blood pressure or kidney or liver disease should ask a doctor before use.
- Buy only from trusted, licensed makers.
Overdose
Large amounts may cause stomach upset, vomiting and, in people with diabetes, low blood sugar. Rarely, kidney problems have been reported with very high doses. Seek medical help if a large amount is taken.
Therapeutic Class
Herbal medicine (traditional and Unani herbal preparation).
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and out of the reach of children.
Prepared by the Oshud Alo team from standard drug references. For information only; always follow your doctor's advice.