Synopsis

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

Black cumin (Nigella sativa) has been traditionally used in many cultures for a variety of ailments, including infections. In recent years, there has been increasing scientific interest in its antiviral properties. Preclinical studies (in vitro and animal models) have demonstrated that compounds in black cumin, particularly thymoquinone, exhibit inhibitory effects against a range of viruses, including cytomegalovirus, hepatitis C virus, and even SARS-CoV-2. These effects are believed to result from immunomodulatory, antioxidant, and direct antiviral mechanisms.

A few small-scale human studies and case reports suggest potential benefits in viral infections, such as improvement in hepatitis C infection markers and symptomatic relief. However, these clinical studies are generally limited in size, methodology, or quality, and results are not uniformly replicated. Major health agencies do not currently recommend black cumin as a primary or adjunctive antiviral therapy due to insufficient large-scale clinical evidence.

In summary, while there is a traditional basis for using black cumin for infections, and mounting preclinical scientific evidence suggests it may have antiviral activities, clinical validation in humans remains preliminary. Therefore, the evidence for its use in treating or supporting viral infections is rated as limited (2 out of 5), and further high-quality human trials are needed before it can be recommended for this indication.

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