Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Thymoquinone, the main bioactive constituent of Nigella sativa (black seed), has been investigated in preclinical studies for its potential therapeutic effects in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The scientific rationale centers on its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties. Several animal studies have demonstrated that thymoquinone can reduce airway inflammation, oxidative stress, and mucus hypersecretion—key factors implicated in COPD pathogenesis. For instance, in rodent models exposed to cigarette smoke or chemical irritants, thymoquinone administration has resulted in decreased levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines (such as TNF-α and IL-6), reduced inflammatory cell infiltration in the lungs, and improved histopathological lung features. Additionally, thymoquinone has shown inhibitory effects on NF-κB signaling, a pathway involved in chronic pulmonary inflammation. However, despite promising preclinical data, there is a lack of robust clinical trials evaluating the efficacy and safety of thymoquinone (or Nigella sativa extracts standardized for thymoquinone content) in human COPD patients. Limited human studies focus more broadly on respiratory conditions or general lung function rather than COPD specifically, and these often use whole seed extracts rather than isolated thymoquinone. Therefore, while there is a scientific basis from animal and cell studies suggesting potential benefit, clinical validation in COPD patients is currently insufficient. The evidence rating reflects the gap between experimental data and real-world clinical application.

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