# Linsin (Nigella sativa)

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

## Overview

Nigella sativa contains thymoquinone as its primary bioactive compound, which demonstrates anti-tumor activity through multiple cellular pathways. The seeds also contain nigellone, which blocks calcium channels to inhibit histamine release in respiratory conditions.

## Health Benefits

• Anti-tumor effects: Preclinical evidence shows thymoquinone activity against breast, lung, prostate, liver, colon, and pancreatic cancers (preliminary evidence only)
• Respiratory support: Nigellone compound inhibits histamine release in asthma models through calcium channel blockade (animal studies)
• [Antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant): Terpenoids like carvacrol demonstrate antioxidant properties (in-vitro evidence)
• [Anti-inflammatory](/ingredients/condition/inflammation) effects: Seed extracts show anti-inflammatory activities (preclinical evidence only)
• [Antimicrobial](/ingredients/condition/immune-support) properties: Extract components exhibit antimicrobial actions (laboratory studies only)

## Mechanism of Action

Thymoquinone modulates multiple signaling pathways including [NF-κB](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), p53, and MAPK to induce apoptosis in cancer cells while inhibiting proliferation and angiogenesis. Nigellone acts as a calcium channel blocker, preventing mast cell degranulation and subsequent histamine release. These compounds also exhibit [antioxidant activity](/ingredients/condition/antioxidant) by scavenging free radicals and enhancing endogenous antioxidant enzyme systems.

## Clinical Summary

Current evidence for Nigella sativa primarily comes from preclinical animal studies and in vitro research, with limited human clinical data. Animal studies have shown thymoquinone's anti-tumor effects across multiple cancer types including breast, lung, and prostate cancers, though human efficacy remains unestablished. Respiratory studies in asthma models demonstrate histamine inhibition, but controlled human trials are lacking. Sample sizes in existing preliminary human studies are typically small (under 100 participants) with short duration follow-up periods.

## Nutritional Profile

{"macronutrients": {"protein": "21g per 100g", "fat": "35g per 100g", "carbohydrates": "44g per 100g", "fiber": "10g per 100g"}, "micronutrients": {"calcium": "931mg per 100g", "iron": "66.36mg per 100g", "magnesium": "385mg per 100g", "zinc": "4.6mg per 100g", "vitamin B1 (thiamine)": "0.4mg per 100g", "vitamin B2 (riboflavin)": "0.11mg per 100g", "vitamin B3 (niacin)": "5.8mg per 100g"}, "bioactive_compounds": {"thymoquinone": "1-2% of the oil", "nigellone": "trace amounts", "carvacrol": "trace amounts"}, "bioavailability_notes": "The bioavailability of thymoquinone can be enhanced when consumed with fats, as it is lipophilic. Minerals like iron and calcium may have reduced absorption due to the presence of phytates."}

## Dosage & Preparation

No clinically studied dosage ranges for extracts, powder, or standardized forms are available in the current research. Studies mention thymoquinone as the major active compound but do not specify standardization percentages or dosing protocols. Consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.

## Safety & Drug Interactions

Nigella sativa is generally well-tolerated in culinary amounts but may cause gastrointestinal upset, skin reactions, or hypoglycemia at therapeutic doses. It may interact with diabetes medications by enhancing hypoglycemic effects and could potentiate anticoagulant drugs. Pregnancy and breastfeeding safety is not established, so use should be avoided during these periods. Individuals with bleeding disorders or scheduled for surgery should discontinue use due to potential anticoagulant effects.

## Scientific Research

The research dossier reveals a critical gap: no human clinical trials, RCTs, or meta-analyses with PubMed PMIDs were found in the search results. All available evidence comes from preclinical studies focusing on phytochemical analysis and in-vitro or animal models, highlighting the need for human clinical research.

## Historical & Cultural Context

Nigella sativa has been used as a panacea in global traditional medicine for centuries, spanning Unani, Ayurvedic, and Middle Eastern systems for ailments like asthma, [inflammation](/ingredients/condition/inflammation), and infections. The herb holds significant cultural importance across these traditional medicine systems, though specific historical timelines were not detailed in the research.

## Synergistic Combinations

Turmeric, Ginger, Boswellia, Green Tea Extract, Quercetin

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the active compound in nigella sativa?

Thymoquinone is the primary bioactive compound in nigella sativa seeds, typically comprising 30-48% of the essential oil. This compound is responsible for most of the anti-tumor and anti-inflammatory effects observed in research studies.

### How much nigella sativa should I take daily?

Research studies have used doses ranging from 1-3 grams of nigella sativa powder daily or 500-1000mg of standardized extract. However, optimal human dosing has not been established through clinical trials, so consult a healthcare provider before use.

### Can nigella sativa help with asthma symptoms?

Animal studies show nigella sativa's nigellone compound blocks calcium channels and inhibits histamine release in asthma models. However, human clinical evidence is very limited, and it should not replace conventional asthma treatments without medical supervision.

### Does nigella sativa interact with blood thinners?

Yes, nigella sativa may enhance the effects of anticoagulant medications like warfarin, potentially increasing bleeding risk. The thymoquinone compound appears to have antiplatelet effects that could potentiate blood-thinning medications.

### Is nigella sativa safe during pregnancy?

Safety during pregnancy has not been established through clinical studies, and traditional use suggests potential uterine stimulant effects. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid therapeutic doses and stick to normal culinary amounts only.

### What is the difference between nigella sativa seed oil and nigella sativa seed powder?

Nigella sativa seed oil is extracted from the seeds and concentrates fat-soluble compounds like thymoquinone, while powder contains the whole seed with both oil and fiber components. Oil forms typically offer higher bioavailability of active compounds but may have different absorption kinetics than powder. The choice depends on whether you want a concentrated active dose (oil) or a whole-food approach (powder).

### Does nigella sativa have any well-established clinical evidence for cancer prevention in humans?

While preclinical studies show thymoquinone exhibits anti-tumor activity against breast, lung, prostate, liver, colon, and pancreatic cancer cells in laboratory settings, there is currently no substantial clinical evidence demonstrating cancer prevention or treatment benefits in human populations. Most evidence remains at the animal study or in-vitro level, and nigella sativa should not be considered a cancer treatment or preventive agent based on current research. More rigorous human trials are needed before clinical recommendations can be made.

### Which populations may benefit most from nigella sativa supplementation?

Individuals with mild asthma symptoms, those seeking antioxidant support, and people interested in traditional respiratory health may be candidates for nigella sativa, though evidence is stronger for respiratory support than other uses. Those with histamine-related sensitivities may theoretically benefit from nigella's histamine-inhibiting properties, though human evidence is limited. Conversely, individuals on anticoagulant medications, those pregnant or nursing, and people with nigella allergies should avoid supplementation or consult a healthcare provider first.

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