The benefits of nigella on digestion: an approach based on clinical studies

Nigella, also known as black cumin or Nigella sativa, is a plant native to Southwest Asia and widely used in traditional medicine for centuries. Along with its well-established medicinal properties, black seed has also been studied for its digestive benefits, with emerging scientific evidence supporting its effectiveness. In this article, we will explore recent clinical studies on the benefits of black seed on digestion.

Nigella and its active compounds

The nigella contains a variety of active compounds, the main ones being thymoquinone, thymohydroquinone, and dithymoquinone. These compounds are potent antioxidants that have demonstrated anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antifungal properties in in vitro and animal studies.

Benefits of nigella on digestion

Clinical studies have shown that black cumin may have digestive benefits, including:

1. Relief of symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS): A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study published in "The American Journal of Gastroenterology" in 2017 showed that taking black seed capsules for 6 weeks improved IBS symptoms, such as abdominal pain, constipation, and diarrhea.
2. Protective effect against gastric ulcers: Another study published in the journal "Experimental and Toxicologic Pathology" in 2018 showed that the administration of nigella in rats with experimentally induced gastric ulcers reduced the severity of ulcers and improved healing of the gastric mucosa.
3. Antioxidant effect on the liver: Animal studies have also shown that black seed can protect the liver against oxidative damage. A study published in the journal "Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity" in 2018 showed that nigella protected the liver against paracetamol-induced oxidative damage in rats.
4. Improved bowel function: Black seed has also been studied for its effect on bowel function. A study published in the "Journal of Ethnopharmacology" in 2014 showed that nigella improved bowel function in rats with opiate-induced constipation.
5. Reduced Gut Inflammation: Black Seed has also shown anti-inflammatory properties in animal studies. A study published in the "Journal of Basic and Clinical Physiology and Pharmacology" in 2018 showed that black seed reduced intestinal inflammation in rats with experimentally induced colitis.

Conclusion

Clinical studies on the benefits of nigella on digestion are still limited, but the available results are promising. Black seed appears to have anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and liver-protective properties, which may help improve digestion and relieve symptoms of certain gastrointestinal disorders. However, it should be noted that most studies have been conducted on animals or in the laboratory, and more research is needed to confirm these effects in humans.

It is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking black cumin supplements, especially if you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications, to avoid any risk of drug interaction or adverse effects.

In conclusion, although black cumin shows promising potential for supporting healthy digestion, it is essential to consult a qualified healthcare professional before using it as a dietary supplement. Current clinical studies provide encouraging preliminary evidence, but more research is needed to better understand the mechanisms of action of black seed on digestion and its effectiveness in humans.

References :

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