Black Seed Oil for Asthma
A placebo-controlled trial found improved asthma control. Here's the context.
Key takeaways
- A 2017 trial found black seed oil capsules improved asthma control scores.
- It's a possible add-on, never a replacement for inhalers.
- Never stop asthma medication without medical advice.
What the research says
In a randomised, double-blind trial, adults with asthma who took Nigella sativa oil capsules for 4 weeks had better asthma control scores and lower blood eosinophils than placebo.[1] Reviews also describe bronchodilator and anti-inflammatory effects.[2]
Important
Asthma attacks can be life-threatening. Keep using your prescribed inhalers and follow your asthma action plan.
Frequently asked questions
Can black seed oil replace my inhaler?
No. It may be used alongside your treatment with your doctor's approval.
The bottom line
Early trial evidence is promising for asthma control, but black seed oil is only a possible add-on to proper asthma care.
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Sources
- Koshak A, Wei L, Koshak E, et al. Nigella sativa supplementation improves asthma control and biomarkers: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Phytother Res. 2017;31(3):403-409.
- Tavakkoli A, Mahdian V, Razavi BM, Hosseinzadeh H. Review on clinical trials of black seed (Nigella sativa) and its active constituent, thymoquinone. J Pharmacopuncture. 2017;20(3):179-193.
