An updated review on the phytochemistry and pharmacological activity of black cumin (Nigella sativa L.)

Abstract

In this review, a comprehensive and systematic evaluation of the phytochemical constituents, traditional medicinal applications, current pharmacological research, toxicity, and nanobiotechnology of black cumin has been undertaken. An exhaustive database retrieval was conducted to collect scientific information about Nigella sativa L. from 1956 to 2025 using PubMed, Scopus, ISI Web of Science, SciFinder, and CABI. Search was carried out using the keywords “Nigella sativa,” “Nigella oil,” “Ethnobotany,” “Phytochemistry,” “Pharmacological activity,” “Toxicity,” and “Nanotechnology.” Several important phytochemicals are found in the seeds of N. sativa L., and many of which seem to have a good impact on human health and are put to important use in the Ayurvedic, Unani, and Siddha systems of medicine. Among the active compounds, thymoquinone is the most important, forming about 30%–48% of the oil fraction. Besides thymoquinone, a wide range of phytochemicals such as thymohydroquinone, dithymoquinone, p-cymene, sabinene, carvacrol, 4-terpineol, kaempferol (glucoside) t-anethol, longifolene (sesquiterpene), α-pinene, α-hederin (pentacyclic triterpene), and thymol have also been reported. Current research has provided scientific evidence for the traditional uses of black cumin, especially antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral, anticancer, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, gastroprotective, and antiarthritic effects. The review provides an in-depth analysis of the phytochemistry, traditional uses as well as potential pharmacological properties of N. sativa L. Since the plant is being extensively investigated for its medicinal properties, this review provides valuable up-to-date information on the current research status and will act as a reference for future research and applications of this important medicinal plant.