# Kalonji (Nigella sativa)

**Canonical URL:** https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com/ingredients/kalonji
**Data Source:** Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia
**Updated:** 2026-03-19
**Evidence Score:** 8 / 10
**Category:** Middle Eastern
**Also Known As:** Nigella sativa, Black cumin, Black seed, Black caraway, Roman coriander, Kala jeera, Habbat al-barakah, Charnushka

## Overview

Kalonji (Nigella sativa) is a medicinal seed containing thymoquinone as its primary bioactive compound. It demonstrates [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) through DPPH radical scavenging and shows preliminary anti-cancer effects via sapindoside B.

## Health Benefits

• Antioxidant properties: In vitro studies show NSO exhibits DPPH radical scavenging (IC50 3.8 mg/mL) and reduces [oxidative stress](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) markers in animal models
• Potential anti-cancer activity: In vitro tests demonstrate sapindoside B inhibits cancer cell lines at IC50 <10-20 µM (preliminary evidence only)
• [Immune modulation](/ingredients/condition/immune-support): Animal studies suggest effects on splenocyte proliferation and macrophage function (no human trials available)
• Anti-inflammatory potential: Contains flavonoids like quercetin and kaempferol with demonstrated anti-[inflammatory pathway](/ingredients/condition/inflammation)s in vitro
• Traditional digestive support: Used historically for digestive issues though no clinical trials validate this use

## Mechanism of Action

Thymoquinone, the primary active compound in kalonji, exhibits [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) by scavenging DPPH radicals with an IC50 of 3.8 mg/mL. The compound sapindoside B demonstrates cytotoxic effects against cancer cell lines at concentrations below 10-20 µM. These compounds work by reducing oxidative stress markers and potentially interfering with cancer cell proliferation pathways.

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence for kalonji is primarily based on in vitro studies and animal models rather than human clinical trials. Laboratory studies show kalonji seed oil exhibits moderate [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) with DPPH radical scavenging capabilities. Preliminary in vitro cancer research indicates sapindoside B may inhibit certain cancer cell lines at micromolar concentrations, though human studies are lacking. The evidence remains in early stages and requires clinical validation.

## Nutritional Profile

Per 100g of Nigella sativa seeds: Protein 20-27g (rich in essential amino acids including glutamic acid ~4.4g, arginine ~2.5g, aspartic acid ~2.4g); Fat 28-38g (predominantly polyunsaturated: linoleic acid/omega-6 ~55-60% of fatty acid profile, oleic acid/omega-9 ~20-24%, palmitic acid ~12-14%, with alpha-linolenic acid/omega-3 ~0.5-1.5%); Carbohydrates 23-35g (dietary fiber ~5-7g, including mucilaginous polysaccharides); Moisture ~5-7g; Ash ~4-5g. Key micronutrients: Iron 10-16mg/100g, Calcium 160-190mg/100g, Zinc 4-6mg/100g, Potassium 450-500mg/100g, Phosphorus 490-530mg/100g, Magnesium 185-210mg/100g, Copper 1.1-1.8mg/100g, Thiamine (B1) ~0.6mg/100g, Niacin (B3) ~3.8mg/100g, Folate ~610µg/100g. Primary bioactive compounds: Thymoquinone (TQ) 0.4-2.5% of volatile oil and primary active constituent of cold-pressed oil (NSO); Thymohydroquinone, thymol, carvacrol (phenolic monoterpenes, collectively 30-48% of essential oil); p-cymene ~7-15% of essential oil; Alpha-thujene ~3-7%; Nigellicine and nigellidine (indazole alkaloids, trace quantities ~0.2-0.4%); Nigellimine-N-oxide (pyrazole alkaloid); Carvone ~4%; Fixed oil (NSO) contains beta-sitosterol ~44-54% of sterol fraction and campesterol ~5-10%. Tocopherols present in fixed oil: alpha-tocopherol ~340mg/kg oil, gamma-tocopherol ~220mg/kg oil. Saponins including alpha-hederin (~0.01-0.1% dry weight). Bioavailability notes: Thymoquinone has poor aqueous solubility (~0.6 mg/mL) limiting oral bioavailability; lipid-based formulations or black seed oil (cold-pressed) significantly enhance TQ absorption compared to raw ground seeds; grinding seeds immediately before consumption improves release of volatile compounds versus pre-ground; bioavailability of iron is moderate, partially limited by co-existing phytates (~1.5-3% phytic acid content); heating reduces TQ content by 20-40% depending on temperature and duration.

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges for humans are available. In vitro studies used NSO at 5 mg/mL and isolated compounds at 25-250 µM, but these cannot be extrapolated to human doses. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Kalonji is generally considered safe when used as a culinary spice, but concentrated supplements may cause gastrointestinal upset in some individuals. It may potentially interact with diabetes medications by enhancing blood sugar-lowering effects. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid therapeutic doses due to insufficient safety data. Individuals with bleeding disorders should use caution as kalonji may affect blood clotting.

## Scientific Research

The research dossier reveals no human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses for Nigella sativa were found. Available evidence consists solely of in vitro [antioxidant](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) assays, animal studies in Wistar rats, and cell culture experiments examining anti-cancer properties.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Nigella sativa has been used for over 2000 years in traditional systems including Unani, Ayurveda, and Islamic medicine (Tibb-e-Nabwi) for digestive issues, [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), and respiratory conditions. Historical texts reference it as a general health remedy, establishing its longstanding role in traditional phytotherapy.

## Synergistic Combinations

Turmeric, Ginger, Green Tea Extract, Vitamin C, Quercetin

## Frequently Asked Questions

### Does kalonji help with inflammation?

Kalonji contains flavonoids including quercetin and kaempferol, which have demonstrated anti-inflammatory activity in vitro by modulating inflammatory pathways. However, all current evidence comes from cell culture studies, with no human clinical trials confirming these effects. Thymoquinone, the primary bioactive compound, also shows antioxidant properties that may indirectly reduce inflammatory markers. Until well-designed human trials are conducted, kalonji cannot be clinically recommended as an anti-inflammatory supplement. Consult a healthcare provider before use.

### What are the side effects of taking kalonji supplements?

Clinical safety data for kalonji (Nigella sativa) supplements in humans is extremely limited, as no human clinical trials have been conducted. Because research is confined to in vitro and animal studies, a complete side effect profile cannot be established. Historically, kalonji seeds have been used in food quantities without widespread reported harm, but concentrated supplement doses carry unknown risks. Potential concerns include drug interactions and gastrointestinal discomfort. Always consult a healthcare provider before starting kalonji supplementation, particularly at doses above culinary amounts.

### Can kalonji oil improve immune function?

Animal studies using Nigella sativa oil suggest it may influence immune function by affecting splenocyte proliferation and macrophage activity, which are key components of the immune response. However, these findings come exclusively from animal models, and no human clinical trials exist to confirm these effects. Extrapolating animal study results to human immune health is not scientifically valid at this stage. More rigorous research, including randomized controlled trials in humans, is needed before any immune-support claims can be substantiated.

### Is kalonji good for digestive health?

Kalonji has a long history of traditional use in Middle Eastern medicine for digestive complaints, including bloating and indigestion. However, no clinical trials have validated this traditional use. Current scientific evidence for kalonji's digestive benefits is entirely anecdotal and historical. Without controlled human studies, it is not possible to confirm efficacy, appropriate dosing, or safety for digestive conditions. If you are experiencing persistent digestive issues, consult a healthcare professional rather than relying solely on kalonji supplementation.

### How does thymoquinone in kalonji work as an antioxidant?

Thymoquinone, the primary bioactive compound in kalonji, exerts antioxidant effects by scavenging free radicals, specifically demonstrated through DPPH radical inhibition with an IC50 of 3.8 mg/mL in vitro. It also reduces oxidative stress markers in animal models. By neutralising reactive oxygen species, thymoquinone may help protect cells from oxidative damage. While these mechanisms are well-characterised in laboratory settings, human clinical data confirming meaningful antioxidant benefits at achievable dietary or supplement doses does not currently exist.

### Can I take kalonji with blood pressure or diabetes medications?

There is currently no human clinical trial data assessing kalonji's interactions with blood pressure or diabetes medications. Some animal research suggests Nigella sativa may have hypoglycaemic or hypotensive properties, which theoretically could compound the effects of related medications and increase the risk of low blood sugar or blood pressure. Without confirmed human pharmacokinetic data, predicting drug interactions is not possible. Anyone taking prescription medications for diabetes or hypertension should consult their doctor or pharmacist before adding kalonji supplements to their routine.

### What is the difference between kalonji seeds and kalonji oil?

Kalonji seeds are the whole dried seeds of Nigella sativa, used both as a culinary spice and in traditional medicine. Kalonji oil, also called black seed oil or Nigella sativa oil (NSO), is a cold-pressed extract from the seeds and contains a higher concentration of bioactive compounds, particularly thymoquinone. In vitro antioxidant research has used NSO at concentrations such as 5 mg/mL. Both forms contain the same key bioactives, but the oil delivers them in a more concentrated format. Neither form has established clinically validated human dosing guidelines.

### Is there clinical trial evidence supporting kalonji benefits in humans?

No. As of the current research dossier, no human clinical trials, randomised controlled trials (RCTs), or meta-analyses have been conducted on Nigella sativa for any health outcome. All available evidence is restricted to in vitro antioxidant assays, cell culture experiments examining anti-cancer activity, and animal studies in Wistar rats. While these preliminary findings are promising, they cannot be directly applied to human health recommendations. Kalonji should not be used as a substitute for evidence-based medical treatments until robust human trials are completed.

### What is the active compound in kalonji?

Thymoquinone is the primary bioactive compound in kalonji seeds. This compound is responsible for most of the antioxidant and therapeutic properties attributed to Nigella sativa.

### How much kalonji should I take daily?

No standardized dosage exists for kalonji supplements due to limited clinical research. Culinary amounts (1-2 teaspoons of seeds) are generally safe, but therapeutic doses should be determined by a healthcare provider.

### Can kalonji help with cancer?

Laboratory studies show sapindoside B from kalonji inhibits cancer cells at IC50 concentrations of 10-20 µM. However, these are preliminary in vitro results and human clinical trials are needed to establish any anti-cancer benefits.

### Is kalonji safe during pregnancy?

Pregnant women should avoid therapeutic doses of kalonji supplements due to insufficient safety data. Small culinary amounts used in cooking are generally considered safe during pregnancy.

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*Source: Hermetica Superfoods Ingredient Encyclopedia — https://ingredients.hermeticasuperfoods.com*
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