Synopsis

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

Black cumin (Nigella sativa) has a long history of use in various traditional medicine systems, including Ayurveda, Unani, and traditional Middle Eastern medicine, for a range of digestive complaints, including acid indigestion (dyspepsia). The seeds and their oil have been used to relieve symptoms such as bloating, stomach pain, and excess acidity. Traditional practitioners often recommend black cumin seeds for their purported carminative (gas-reducing) and digestive properties, which are believed to help balance the stomach’s environment and alleviate discomfort after eating heavy or spicy foods.

Scientific studies on black cumin specifically for acid indigestion are limited and of low quality. Some animal studies suggest that black cumin extracts may help protect the gastric mucosa and reduce gastric acid secretion, possibly due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, particularly from the active compound thymoquinone. There are a few small human studies suggesting benefit in broader gastrointestinal symptoms, but none that robustly confirm efficacy for acid indigestion alone.

Overall, the use of black cumin for acid indigestion is primarily supported by tradition, with weak scientific evidence (hence a rating of 2). While it is widely used in traditional practices and appears safe in culinary amounts, more rigorous clinical studies are needed to substantiate its effectiveness for acid indigestion.

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