An Overview of Skin Benefits of Black Seeds (Kalonji)

Furkhan Younus Khan*, Mohammad Yasar, Mohammad Altamash,

Shaikh Mukarram, Dr. Rahil Meman, Dr. Molvi Khurshid

Ismail Mehta Collage of Pharmacy Ambad, Dist. Jalna (431204)

*Correspondence: furkhankhan40@gmail.com

DOI: https://doi.org/10.71431/IJRPAS.2025.4510

INTRODUCTION

The use of medicinal plants has been considered for the treatment of human diseases since ancient times. Medicinal herb is a plant that is able to change the physiological and pathological processes and can be used to prevent or treat diseases. In recent years, there is a significant increase in the use of medicinal plants, compared with the chemical drugs, due to several factors, such as easy access without prescription, low-cost, no need to refer to healthcare professionals, as well as believing in fewer side effects for the treatments with natural products. The utilization of medicinal plants dates back to ancient times, with various cultures recognizing their potential in treating and preventing human diseases. Medicinal herbs, by definition, are plants that possess the ability to alter physiological and pathological processes, making them valuable tools in the fight against disease. In recent years, there has been a notable resurgence in the popularity of medicinal plants, surpassing conventional chemical drugs in many instances. This shift can be attributed to several key factors, including ease of access without the need for prescriptions, affordability, and the perception of fewer side effects associated with natural products. Furthermore, individuals seeking alternative therapies often opt for medicinal plants due to their desire to avoid the conventional healthcare system, preferring instead to take a more proactive and self-directed approach to wellness.

The increased adoption of medicinal plants can also be linked to growing concerns regarding the efficacy and safety of synthetic pharmaceuticals. Many individuals are seeking more holistic and sustainable solutions to their health issues, driving the demand for plant-based remedies. Additionally, advancements in scientific research have validated the therapeutic potential of various medicinal plants, bolstering their credibility and appeal. The low-cost and accessibility of medicinal plants, particularly in rural or underserved communities, have also contributed to their widespread adoption. Without the need for elaborate medical infrastructure or specialized healthcare professionals, individuals can readily incorporate medicinal plants into their treatment regimens.

Moreover, the belief in fewer side effects associated with natural products has been a significant draw for those seeking alternatives to conventional medications. While this perception is not always accurate, it underscores the growing desire for more gentle and non-invasive therapeutic approaches. The rising interest in preventive medicine and wellness has also fueled the demand for medicinal plants, as individuals seek to maintain optimal health and prevent disease onset. As research continues to unravel the complexities of medicinal

plants' bioactive compounds and their interactions with human physiology, their potential in addressing various health concerns will likely become increasingly evident.

However, it is crucial to acknowledge the importance of informed usage and responsible integration of medicinal plants into treatment plans. Collaboration between healthcare professionals, researchers, and traditional practitioners is essential to ensure safe and effective use. Rigorous scientific investigation and standardized regulatory frameworks will also play vital roles in harnessing the therapeutic potential of medicinal plants while minimizing risks. As the global community continues to recognize the value of medicinal plants, a balanced approach that merges traditional knowledge with modern scientific inquiry will be instrumental in optimizing their benefits and advancing human health.

Botanical characteristics

            N. Sativa belongs to the Ranunculaceae family and is an annual herbaceous plant which mainly grows in various parts of southern Europe and some parts of Asia, including Syria, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and India. Flowers are elegant, predominantly white, yellow, pink, light blue or lavender and have 5−10 petals. The fruits of this plant are large and swollen capsules, which contain numerous black seeds with aromatic and bitter taste. N. Sativa cultivation time is usually between November and April and germination lasts for about 10−15 days after sowing seeds. The flowering and fruiting times of the plant are generally from January to April.

Scientific classification of the plant

Kingdom: Plantae Division: Magnoliophyta Order: Ranunculales Family: Ranunculaceae Genus: Nigella

Species: Sativa

Black seeds (Kalonji)

            Chemical composition of N. Sativa So far, several chemical compounds have been extracted and identified from different species of Nigella. N. Sativa contains 216 g protein, 406 g fat, 45 g ash, 84 g fibre, 249 g free nitrogen extract, 38 g moisture, 105 mg iron, 18 mg copper, 60 mg zinc, 527 mg phosphorus, 1 860 mg calcium, 15.4 mg thiamine, 57 mg niacin and 160 μg folic acid per kg. Also, studies have shown the presence of different active pharmaceutical ingredients in the N. Sativa seeds, including thymoquinone, thymol, limonene, carvacrol, p-cymene, alpha-pinene, 4-terpineol, longifolene, and t-anethole benzene.

Skin Benefits:

·         Anti-Acne: Anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties reduce acne severity and prevent future breakouts.

·         Anti-Aging: Antioxidants (Thymoquinone, Carvacrol) combat oxidative stress, fine lines, and wrinkles.

·         Skin Hydration: Essential fatty acids (Linoleic, Oleic) nourish and moisturise the skin.

·         Hyper-Pigmentation: Inhibits melanin production, reducing dark spots and hyperpigmentation.

·         Wound Healing: Accelerates wound closure, improves collagen synthesis, and enhances tissue repair.

·         Skin Infections: Exhibits antifungal and antibacterial properties, effective against ringworm, eczema, and psoriasis.

·         Inflammation: Soothes skin irritations, reducing redness and inflammation.

Therapeutic Applications:

·         Acne Vulgaris: Topical application of black seed oil reduces acne Lesions.

·         Psoriasis: Oral supplementation with black seeds improves Symptoms.

·         Atopic Dermatitis: Black seed oil alleviates itching, inflammation, and skin dryness.

·         Wound Care: Black seed oil accelerates wound healing, reduces scar formation.

·         Skin Cancer: Antioxidants and Thymoquinone exhibit anti-tumor properties

Anti-Aging

            Ageing involves progressive, destructive changes in one or more organs, which over time leads to disease and death. The ageing process is associated with immune system impairment, nervous system dysfunction, and apoptosis. In various studies, the induction of apoptosis in ageing is accompanied by a reduction in the glutathione (GSH) content and amplifications of oxidative stress in liver and brain tissues. Oxidative stress causes an imbalance between oxidants and the antioxidant defence system in the body. it can also damage cell membranes and may lead to death and/or a worsening of age-related chronic diseases, including cancer and Alzheimer's, Parkinson's and heart disease. Oxidative stress disrupts the normal function of mitochondria, as well.

            Moreover, apoptosis, which is a form of programmed cell death and plays an important role in various physiological and pathological conditions, is one of the effective factors in the ageing process. D-galactose, which is completely metabolised at normal concentrations, is a natural agent in the body. At higher concentrations, it converts to aldose, hydrogen peroxide, and galactose oxidase; the production of superoxide anions and oxygen reactive radicals increase, leading to disruptions in the activities of macromolecules and cells. Furthermore, in animal studies, a D-galactose overload has been shown to cause changes that resemble the ageing process. Nigella Sativa (black seed), which is an annual plant that belongs to the Ranunculaceae The family is widely grown in many countries. The chemical compounds that make up black seed vary, but its major components are alkaloids, as well as fixed and volatile oils.The fixed  oils  include  linoleic  acid,  oleic  acid  and  palmitic  acid.

            Thymoquinone, a volatile oil, is the most active constituent of black seed. Black seed has many medicinal properties, including neuroprotective, hepatoprotective hypotensive renal protective, antidiabetic, bronchodilatory antibacterial, anti-tumor anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties. Black seed prevents the neuronal damage caused in the frontal cortex and brain stem by exposure to toluene. Because of its antioxidant mechanisms, black seed oil can be used to reduce the side effects of gentamicin, which include hepatic and renal toxicity, Also, the neuroprotective activity of Nigella Sativa on neurotransmitters creates an anti-epileptic effect. Because oxidative stress plays a crucial role in ageing and antioxidant herbs can effectively prevent diseases related to ageing, this study investigated the antioxidant and the anti-aging effects of black-seed fixed oil on D-galactose-induced ageing in a mouse model, with a focus on evaluating oxidative stress and apoptosis [1].

Skin Infections

            Robert W. Lebling and Donna Pepperdine MH in the book Natural Remedies of Arabia mentioned the use of Nigella Sativa seed powder and honey mix for acne treatment and clear facial, Imam Ibn Qayyim Al-Jauziyah in his book Medicine of the Prophet mentioned the use of black seed burnt mixed with waxes along with henna or its oil for treatment of skin ulcers. It is also mentioned that Nigella Sativa seed, when mixed with vinegar had been in use for dandruff and ailments like leprosy and black pigmentation.

            Vitiligo is one of the autoimmune skin diseases which destroy the melanocytes of the skin. Resulting white patches on the skin. A study was conducted, where the efficacy of Nigella Sativa seed and fish oil were tested against Vitiligo lesions of the patients. The study medications with Nigella Sativa seed oil were applied two times a day by patients on their lesions. The improvement in lesions was checked by the Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (VASI). Application of Nigella Sativa seed oil proved to be useful as the mean score of VASI decreased from 4.98 to 3.75 in patients, while VASI decreased from 4.98 to 4.62 in the case of those using topical fish oil. Nigella Sativa seed oil found to be more efficient regarding percent improvement observed in the area of head, neck, upper extremities. There was no adverse effect reported by the patients. Nigella Sativa seed oil seed was found more efficient in comparison to the fish oil.

            Ant psoriatic activity of ethanolic extract of Nigella Sativa seed was evaluated by using mouse tail model and in vitro ant psoriatic activity by SRB Assay using HaCaT human keratinocyte cell lines. The experimental ethanolic extract of Nigella Sativa seed created a quite significant epidermal differentiation, from its degree of orthokeratosis (71.36 +/-2.64) when compared to the negative control (17.30+/-4.09%).

This effect can be compared with tazarotene (0.1%) gel (the standard positive control), which showed a (90.03+/- 2.00%) degree of orthokeratosis. The ethanolic extract of Nigella Sativa seed found to have better ant proliferative activity with IC50 239 μg/ml, when compared with Asiatic side with IC50 value of 20.13μg/ml.

            Nigella Sativa seed and its oil are found to be very effective in promoting wound healing in farms animals. In animal testing, staphylococcal skin infection in mice was treated with Nigella Sativa seed and its oil, found to enhance healing by reducing total and absolute differential WBC counts, bacterial expansion and tissue impairment, local infection and Inflammation"

            In a clinical study, where Nigella Sativa oil lotion 10% was applied for two months, mean lesion count of papules and pustules was found to be reduced significantly,

            In the test group, the response to treatment was. Graded as good in 58%, moderate in 35% and no response in 7%. The satisfaction of patients with treatment was found to be full in 67%, partial in 28%, and no satisfaction in 5%. While in the control group, the lesions showed no significant reduction after two months and the response to treatment was good in 8%, moderate in 34%, and no response in 58%. The satisfaction of patients with treatment in this group was full at 8%, partial in 24%, and no satisfaction in 68%. During the study, there were no side effects reported in the group treated with Nigella sativa oil lotion 10%. The Researcher attributed the results  to the antimicrobial, immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory effects of Nigella sativa oil.

            The      molecular         mechanisms     of         anti-inflammatory       and antioxidative activities of thymoquinone had been studied. When pretreatment of female HR-1 hairless mouse skin was done with thymoquinone, it attenuated 12-0-tetradecano phorbol-13-acetate (TPA)-induced expression of cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2). Thymoquinone diminished nuclear translocation and the DNA binding of nuclear factor-kappa-B (NF-B) via the blockade of phosphorylation and subsequent degradation of IjBa in TPA-treated mouse skin. Thymoquinone also attenuated the phosphorylation of Akt, c-Jun- N-terminal kinase, and p38 mitogen-activated protein kinase, but not that of extracellular signal regulated kinase-1/2. Moreover, topical application of thymoquinone-induced the expression of heme oxygenase 1. NAD(P)H quinone oxidoreductase 1. glutathione S transferase and glutamate cysteine ligase in mouse skin.

            In vivo and ex vivo study where emulsion of seed cake extracts of Nigella sativa have been evaluated using a pH metre, corneometer, tewameter, methyl nicotinate model of micro- inflammation in human skin and tape stripping of the stratum corneum found to reduce skin irritation and improved the skin hydration and epidermal barrier function as compared with placebo. The basis which the researchers suggested is the potential use of an emulsion of seedcake extracts of Nigella sativa in anti-aging, moisturising cosmetics".

            In randomised controlled double-blinded clinical trial, new cases of hand eczema in 18-60 years of age in three therapeutic groups (Nigella sativa, Betamethasone and Eucerin) were asked to apply medications twice a day and for 4-week period, which resulted in changes in severity and improved life quality, this was assessed at the interval of oth day, 14th and 28th days of the study by Hand Eczema Severity index (HECSI) and Dermatology. Life Quality

            Index (DLQI) respectively. Nigella sativa and Betamethasone showed significantly more rapid improvement in cases of hand eczema as compared with Eucerin (P=0.003 and P = 0.012 respectively). Nigella sativa and Betamethasone ointments caused significant decreases in DLQI scores compared with Eucerin (P<0.0001 and P 0.007 respectively). There was no significant difference observed in mean DLQI and HECSI of the Nigella sativa and Betamethasone groups over time (P=0.38 and P 0.99 respectively), which showed that Nigella sativa might have the same efficacy as Betamethasone in the improvement of life quality and decreasing the severity of hand eczema [2].

Acne Vulgaris

            Acne vulgaris is the most common chronic inflammatory disease of the skin. Despite the vast array of treatment modalities available for acne, there is considerable dissatisfaction in Acne treatment among patients and doctors. Cost limitation, adverse effect or lack of efficacy limit the use of current therapy. Herbs and their extracts have been used for treatment of skin disease for centuries. One of the most popular herbs in our society is Nigella sativa; this plant has a diverse clinically useful activity.

            Nigella sativa is annular herbaceous plant, widely cultivated throughout South Europe, Egypt, Syria, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Iran, and Iraq. Nigella sativa contain both fixed and essential oils, proteins, alkaloids, and saponin. Much of the biological activity of the seeds has been shown to be due to thymoquinone, the major component of its oil. It has been shown that Nigella sativa seed and oil are effective anti-microbial, immunomodulatory, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and with antitumor activity. The diversity of therapeutic activity of Nigella sativa seeds are due to the diversity of the active compounds that it contains. Remedy extracted from nigella sativa showed promising results in many dermatological conditions. A successful remedy extracted from nigella sativa in treatment of impetigo, scabies, pediculosis and dermatophytosis. Moreover, nigella sativa oil has been used in treatment of recurrent aphthous ulceration and atopic dermatitis [3].

            10% Nigella sativa oil lotion is an effective, safe, non-costly, and well-tolerated topical treatment of mild and moderate acne vulgaris [3].

            The nigella sativa oil lotion has proved its efficacy as a topical therapy for acne vulgaris. This is a new natural plant extract, which lacks any side effects.

Acne vulgaris is one of the most prevalent human diseases, which is considered an infectious disease. Many researchers studied the effect of Nigella sativa oil against acne vulgaris. Hadi and Ashor (2010) noticed that using 20% of N. sativa oil extract in lotion formulation has a better efficacy and is less harmful than benzoyl peroxide lotion 5%, which is the basic treatment for mild to meddle stage of acne vulgaris [19].

            A detailed study was conducted on 62 patients. People who have acne and used N. sativa lotion as a therapy showed a good decrease in their inflammation and overall number of lesions, the same as benzoyl peroxide. In percentage, more than 50% of patients who used N. sativa lotion had good results, but those using benzoyl peroxide lotions showed up to 50% fewer lesions. Of the patients who used N. sativa lotion, 20% showed little adverse effects compared to those who used the traditional therapy. However, after patients stopped their Scheduled therapy with both lotions, the number of lesions rose 8 weeks after the end of therapy [19]. N. sativa seeds have long been used as an external application for different kinds of skin disease. Bhalani and Shah decided to test N. sativa oil antibiotic effect compared with standard drug amoxicillin. The results of both treatments were the same in bacterial zone inhibition. In their recent studies they prepared gel dosage form from the oil and Carbopol 940 and tested this formulation as a therapy for acne vulgaris and good results were obtained [20]. Therefore N. sativa is a good candidate in the treatment of inflamed skin which can be caused by infection, irritation, rashes, dermatitis, acne, and psoriasis.

Cosmeceutical Potential:

            Nigella sativa seed has been referred as Habba Al Sauda or Habba Al Barakah‟ in Arabic literatures. Abu Huraira narrated that Prophet Muhammad said “Use the black seed, which is a healing for all diseases except As-Sam (Death). Above belief triggered lots of studies on Nigella sativa seed in the area of therapeutics. Its medicinal properties provide Nigella sativa seed the status of best candidate as medicinal and cosmetic ingredients [2].

Cosmeceutical Applications:

            In 2000, it was mentioned that Nigella sativa seeds could be used in cosmetics because of its aroma components [21]. After that, it was noticed that sun protective factor (SPF) value for N. sativa seed oil is more than 2, so it has some properties against the sun. That means we can use the oil in cosmetics

1.      Skincare products (creams, serums, masks)

2.      Haircare products (shampoos, conditioners, oils)

3.      Nailcare products (nail strengtheners, fungal treatments)

4.      Oral supplements (capsules, tablets)

Psoriasis

            Black seeds (Nigella sativa) have been traditionally used to treat various skin conditions, including psoriasis.

            Psoriasis is common skin condition, which is a hyper proliferative, autoimmune skin disorder and can be itchy and painful. An experimental study was undertaken to see the effect of ethanol extract of Nigella sativa seeds in treatment of psoriasis. It was found that N. sativa increases the epidermal thickness when case study group is compared to control group that used traditional treatment [17]. Another study was made by Ahmed et al. (2014) to compare asiaticoside and the ethanolic extract of N. sativa to see the antipsoriatic effect. N. sativa oil was applied in two dosage forms, as an ointment and oral dosage form. They had IC50 value of 23.9 μg/ml, which is about the IC50 value for asiaticoside (20.13 μg/ml). In conclusion, N. sativa oil had better effect as antiproliferative activity than the compared treatment [18]. It is concluded based on many researches that N. sativa has antipsoriatic effect with the best effect obtained with the combination of ointment and the oral dosage form.

Psoriasis Benefits:

1.      Anti-inflammatory: Reduces inflammation and itching [4]

2.      Antioxidant: Protects against oxidative stress and cell damage [5]

3.      Immunomodulatory: Regulates immune response, reducing psoriatic lesions [6]

4.      Anti-proliferative: Inhibits abnormal skin cell growth [7]

5.      Wound healing: Enhances skin regeneration and repair [8]

Active Compounds:

1.      Thymoquinone

2.      Nigellone

3.      Oleic acid

4.      Linoleic acid

5.      Vitamin

Mechanisms:

1.      Inhibition of NF-κB and TNF-α

2.      Modulation of cytokine production

3.      Antioxidant activity

4.      Inhibition of keratinocyte proliferation

5.      Stimulation of collagen synthesis

General overview:

            A study published in the Journal of Dermatology found that black seed oil reduced psoriatic lesions and improved quality of life in 40 patients [9].

            A study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology found that black seed extract inhibited inflammation and oxidative stress in psoriatic mice [10].

Dosage and Administration:

1.      Topical application: 2-5% black seed oil in a carrier oil

2.      Oral supplementation: 500-1000 mg black seed oil capsules per day

Precautions:

1.      Allergic reactions

2.      Interaction with medications

3.      Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Hyperpigmentation Benefits:

1.      Inhibition of melanin production_: Reduces tyrosinase activity, decreasing melanin synthesis [4]

2.      Antioxidant activity: Protects against oxidative stress, reducing inflammation and hyperpigmentation [5]

3.      Anti-inflammatory activity: Reduces inflammation, minimising hyperpigmentation [6]

4.      Skin brightening: Enhances skin radiance and evenness [7]

Active Compounds:

1.      Thymoquinone

2.      Nigellone

3.      Oleic acid

4.      Linoleic acid

5.      Vitamin E

Mechanisms:

1.      Inhibition of tyrosinase and melanin synthesis

2.      Antioxidant activity

3.      Anti-inflammatory activity

4.      Modulation of cytokine production

General overview:

1.      A study published in the Journal of Cosmetics, Dermatological Sciences and Applications found that black seed oil reduced melanin production and hyperpigmentation in 30 healthy subjects [8].

2.      A study published in the Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmacology found that black seed extract inhibited tyrosinase activity and reduced hyperpigmentation in mice [9].

Dosage and Administration:

1.      Topical application: 2-5% black seed oil in a carrier oil

2.      Oral supplementation: 500-1000 mg black seed oil capsules per day

Precautions:

1.      Allergic reactions

2.      Interaction with medications

3.      Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Skin Pigmentation

            Vitiligo. Nigella sativa oil as shown before is very effective treatment for different kinds of diseases such as Vitiligo, which is a hypopigmentation disorder causing considerable psychological morbidity in a large proportion of its sufferers. Some studies have focused on this point. A research was made on patients suffering from Vitiligo lesions. Researchers used fish oil and N. sativa oil as a therapy. Good results were obtained in decrease in the lesions size. It was then decided to include N. sativa oil in the basic treatments [11]. A special study was made and noticed that N. sativa has the ability to spread melanin within the skin. A possible explanation of the mechanism of this action was that it increased the intensity of melanin by increasing the sensitivity of cholinergic receptors inside the melanopsin, the external part of lizard. That study led them to think about using the active ingredient of N. sativa oil, which is thymoquinone, for external problems such as decline in skin pigmentation and Vitiligo [12].

Wound Healing

            Thymoquinone is reported to prevent oxidative injury, act as antioxidant, and prevent membrane lipid peroxidation in tissues; these effects suggested the application of Nigella sativa topically to accelerate wound healing [13]. A study on wound model rates was done to evaluate the wound healing effect of N. sativa oil. The results have shown that it increases the wounding process by unknown mechanism compared to silver sulfadiazine, which may be due to anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. In the future after further studies, we may use N. sativa oil instead of silver sulfadiazine to deal with wound [13].It was found that N. sativa oil has good activity on increasing collagen formation and increasing rate of epithelialization. Thus, it has an excellent effect as wound healing and moisturizing effect [14]. Wound healing process was also observed by Abu-Al-Basal. He saw that when ether extract of N. sativa seed was applied on skin, it improved the healing process by decreasing the total and absolute white blood cells count, reducing tissue damage and decreasing bacterial expansion [15]. A study conducted in 2004 used monolayer prototype of human gingival fibroblast to test wound healing properties of N. sativa extract. Increasing in rate of proliferation was observed and closure activity was seen after using the oil in the study [16]. Thus, according to the results of man of those studies and other researches done, it can be said that N. sativa might be promising in treatment of wound healing.

Antimicrobial Effect

Antibacterial

            New antimicrobial agents are intensively investigated due to pathogenic bacterial infections and microbial resistance, which have become a major health problem worldwide and this led to an increase in the use of medicinal plants [22]. Therefore, many studies discussed antibacterial efficacy of black seeds. Examples include thymoquinone, which is a part of black seeds oil, which is found to have bactericidal activity against most bacteria that was included in the study (MICs values ranged from 8 to 32 μg/ml), especially Gram positive cocci types such as (Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 25923 and Staphylococcus epidermidis CIP 106510). For Staphylococcus aureus, clear inhibition of the growth was found by concentration of 300 mg/ml with distilled water (DW) as control. According to the way that they used for testing, a modified paper disc diffusion method was used. However, there was no effect on E. coli and Enterobacter bacteria [23]. Black seeds have been found effective against H. pylori compared with triple therapy [24]. Black seed extract has also been found to have several multidrug resistant clinical bacterial effects [25]. According to those studies, a clear and undeniable antibacterial effect caused by the N. sativa, the inhibition of the bacterial growth, was due to the presence of thymoquinone and melanin. Those findings warrant necessity of further and better investigation of this product.

Antiviral

            A few recent studies were found about the antiviral activity of Nigella sativa extract, for example, a recent study performed in 2013 obtained significant results about the effect of N. sativa oil against hepatitis C virus (HCV). Patients with HCV who cannot receive IFN-α were given 450 mg of N. sativa oil in capsular dosage form. After 3 months of treatment 3 times daily, a decrease in overall viral count was noted. An increase in antioxidant activity was also found, indicating a reduction in the hemolysis of red blood cells and platelet. Other findings were observed such as reduction in blood glucose levels and in the lower limb edema. [26]. these findings suggest that N. sativa administration will decrease viral load in patients with HCV and improve oxidative stress, clinical condition, and glycemic control in diabetic patients.

Antifungal.

            Nigella sativa oil showed antifungal activity against most pathogenic fungi [27]. Candida tropicalis,Aspergillus flavus, and thymoquinone, which is the main composition of the oil, showed antifungal activity against most fungal strains [27, 28]. Its antifungal activity compared with antifungal standard drug Amphotericin B. thymoquinone showed more potent activity against fungal strains than Amphotericin B. It is also found that thymoquinone has not bad antifungal activity with IC50 against Cryptococcus albidus which is 20.83 μg/ml, Candida albicans 23.33 μg/ml, Issatchenkia orientalis 25.33 μg/ml, and Aspergillus fumigatus 23.40 μg/ml [39].In another study of N. sativa antifungal effect on dermatophyte fungal strains, it was found that the essential oil extract of thymoquinone has an effective antifungal activity on T. mentagrophytes, M. canis, and M. gypseum. Cytotoxicity of N. sativa essential oil was included in the study and the results showed that the oil in low concentrations had no significant cytotoxicity in the murine macrophages. However, thymoquinone showed higher cytotoxic effect in comparison with ssential oil by the same method of study [30]. In addition, Khosravi et al. (2011) concluded that C.cyminum, Z. clinopodioides, and N. sativa oils possess anti-fungal activities to inhibit the growth of A. fumigatus and A. flavus. The antifungal activity of the oils was evident at the morphological level. Due to the antifungal activity of these oils and their availability as natural volatile products, they might be of use in future studies of antifungal agents [31]. Researcher who studied treatment of fungal infections by using natural products found that N. sativa has an enhancing antifungal effect [28, 32, 33]. Another research that depended on micro well dilution assay was conducted against three human pathogenic fungal strains Aspergillus flavus, Aspergillus niger, and Candida albicans [6]. Moreover, in 2013 all the extracts of essential N. sativa oil showed effective antifungal activity against C. albicans, C. tropicalis, and C. krusei at MIC values of 16–64 ◻g/ml [34].A study was made on Tunisian N. sativa fixed oil to test its antibacterial and antifungal activity, and the result shows a validation for the folk use of this oil as an antibacterial and antifungal medicine [35]. Therefore, the existence of various chemical compounds in N. sativa and their mechanism of action make it a good candidate as an antifungal agent.

Antiparasitic

            In a study conducted in 2014, researchers extracted Nigella sativa seeds by methanolic extraction and tested it on Plasmodium yoelii infection to see its efficacy. It was found that N. sativa extract showed 94%, ◻ < 0.05, which showed an excellent suppression compared with chloroquine, which is the drug of choice for Plasmodium yoelii infection treatment (methanolic extract of the drug led to 86%). The antimalarial activity was because of antioxidant effect from the extract on Plasmodium infected mice. The study was improved to see the antioxidative status in red blood cells, and hepatocytes of infected mice were seen [36,37]. N. sativa oil possesses other activities against cestodes and nematodes action [38]. In a recent study, N. sativa oil had an excellent effect in minimising the total number of Schistosoma mansoni worms in liver and reducing the total number of ova that was found in both liver and intestine.Good results were obtained in a study conducted in 2008.N. sativa oil and garlic extract were used to see if there are any antischistosomal and antioxidant activity on normal and Sch.mansoni by using infected mice. It was noted that the infected mice had an improvement in haematological , biochemical, and antioxidant capacity of schistosomiasis mice compared to the infected untreated ones .In 2002, Aboul-Ela used N. sativa oil and thymoquinone to test their efficacy against Sch. mansoni on infected mice.Results obtained in the study showed decrease in chromosomal abnormalities, especially on chromosomes 2 and 6,and some in chromosomes 13 and 14 when N. sativa oil and thymoquinone are used in treatment compared with control group .Another study was conducted to determine the effect of N. sativa seeds against some parasites such as Sch. mansoni, miracidia,cercariae, and adult worms. Significant results were achieved as a strong effect against all these parasites and even on their eggs were shown. Also N. sativa seeds possess an oxidative activity against adult worms which decrease the activities of some enzymes such as glutathione reductase, antioxidant enzymes, and enzymes of glucose metabolism. When these enzymes are damaged, parasites will be weaker and killed. The presence of antioxidant compounds in

N. sativa may lead to the collection of free radicals and inactivation of them, which may propose significant marketing advantages, due to consumer preference for antioxidant rich products.

Summary:

            Black seeds (Nigella sativa) possess remarkable skin benefits, making them a valuable natural remedy for various dermatological concerns. Rich in bioactive compounds like thymoquinone, nigellone, and oleic acid, black seeds exhibit potent antioxidant, anti- inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. These properties enable black seeds to address skin issues such as acne, hyperpigmentation, psoriasis, and aging skin, while also promoting hydration, skin elasticity, and wound healing. Additionally, black seeds inhibit melanin production, reducing hyperpigmentation and brightening the skin. With its antioxidant activity protecting against oxidative stress and cell damage, black seeds offer a comprehensive solution for achieving healthy, radiant, and youthful-looking skin. Whether used topically or orally, black seeds provide a natural and effective alternative for skincare, making them an excellent addition to skincare routines and treatments. It offer a comprehensive solution for achieving healthy, radiant, and youthful-looking skin. Their potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties make them an invaluable natural remedy for various dermatological concerns. Whether used topically or orally, black seeds provide a natural and effective alternative for skincare, making them an excellent addition to skincare routines and treatments.

CONCLUSION:

            Black seeds offer a natural and effective solution for various skin concerns, making them a valuable addition to skincare routines and treatments. Black seeds (Nigella sativa) offer a natural and effective solution for various skin concerns, making them a valuable addition to skincare routines and treatments. Their potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties address acne, hyperpigmentation, psoriasis, and aging skin, while promoting hydration, skin elasticity, and wound healing. With their ability to inhibit melanin production and protect against oxidative stress, black seeds provide a comprehensive approach to achieving healthy, radiant, and youthful-looking skin. Incorporating black seeds into skincare regimens can yield significant benefits, making them an excellent natural remedy for maintaining optimal skin health and well-being.

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1.    Jafari Shahroudi M, et al. Anti-aging effect of Nigella sativa fixed oil on D-galactose-induced aging in mice.

2.    Sudhir SP, Deshmukh VO, Verma HN. Nigella sativa seed, a novel beauty care ingredient: A review.

3.    Al-Harchan NAA. Treatment of acne vulgaris with Nigella sativa oil lotion.

4.    Khan et al. Anti-inflammatory activity of Nigella sativa in psoriasis. J Inflamm. 2018;15:1-9.

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