Nigella sativa, also know as black cumin seed, black seed, or black caraway, is an herb used in cooking, and for its many medicinal qualities. It's native to south and southwest Asia.
Thymoquinone, one of the active components of the cold pressed oil, was found to induce levels of glutathione in vitro.[4]
Effects on Enzymes
P450 Enzyme | Strength | Dosage | Verified in Man |
---|---|---|---|
CYP2D6 | 99% inhibition1 | 2.5 g ground seed twice daily for seven days | Yes[1] |
CYP3A4 | 41% inhibition2 | 2.5 g ground seed twice daily for seven days | Yes[1] |
It's important to note that there is a difference between black seed oil and ground black seed. While ground black seed is proven to inhibit CYP2D6 and CYP3A4, tests on the effectiveness of black seed oil on CYP2D6 have not be found. It's possible that the oil has no effect on CYP2D6.
Thymoquinone, one of the active components of the cold pressed oil, was found to potently inhibit CYP1A2 and CYP3A4, but had no effect on CYP2E1 in vitro.[3]
Cold Pressed Oil Toxicity
Oral LD50 in mice: 28.8 ml/kg body weight[2]
Intraperitoneal LD50 in mice: 2.06 ml/kg body weight[2]
Cold Pressed Oil Dosage
The typical recommended dosage for use as a dietary supplement is 1-2 teaspoons a day for adults.