Black Seed Oil for Type 2 Diabetes and Blood Sugar
Meta-analyses suggest black seed modestly lowers blood sugar. Here's what that means for you.
Key takeaways
- A meta-analysis found Nigella sativa lowered fasting blood sugar and HbA1c in type 2 diabetes.
- Effects are modest and add to — not replace — diabetes medicine.
- It may increase the risk of low blood sugar when taken with diabetes medication.
- Check with your doctor and monitor your glucose if you try it.
What the research says
A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials found that Nigella sativa improved fasting blood glucose, HbA1c and blood lipids in people with type 2 diabetes.[1] Doses in studies were usually 1–3 grams of seed powder or 1–3 ml of oil daily.[2]
How might it work?
Thymoquinone may improve insulin sensitivity and reduce oxidative stress in the pancreas, according to lab and animal studies.[3]
Is it safe for diabetics?
Generally yes in food-like amounts, but it can add to the effect of metformin, insulin or other medications. Tell your doctor, start low and check your blood sugar more often.
High blood sugar: lifestyle basics
- Regular physical activity
- Fewer refined carbs and sugary drinks
- More fibre, vegetables and legumes
- Healthy weight
- Taking prescribed medicine as directed
When to see a doctor
Black seed oil and oregano oil are not a substitute for diagnosis or prescribed treatment. See a healthcare professional if symptoms are severe, getting worse or not improving.
Frequently asked questions
How much black seed oil for diabetes?
Studies commonly used about 1–3 ml (roughly ½–½ tablespoon) daily. Ask your doctor before starting.
Can diabetics take oil of oregano with black seed oil?
Possibly, with medical advice. Monitor your glucose, as black seed can lower blood sugar.
The bottom line
Black seed oil has some of its strongest human evidence in type 2 diabetes, but the effect is modest. Use it only alongside medical care.
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Sources
- Daryabeygi-Khotbehsara R, Golzarand M, Ghaffari MP, Djafarian K. Nigella sativa improves glucose homeostasis and serum lipids in type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Complement Ther Med. 2017;35:6-13.
- 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.
- Darakhshan S, Bidmeshki Pour A, Hosseinzadeh Colagar A, Sisakhtnezhad S. Thymoquinone and its therapeutic potentials. Pharmacol Res. 2015;95-96:138-158.
