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Evidence-Based Supplement Research
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Black Cumin and Reduced Body Mass Index

Research synthesisModerate evidenceSmall effect5 studies · 3 beneficial · 2 neutral · 0 harmful

Across 5 studies, 3 reported beneficial effects of black cumin (Nigella sativa) supplementation on reducing body mass index (BMI), with effect sizes ranging from small to moderate. The largest meta-analysis (31 trials, 2145 participants) found a small reduction (WMD -0.51 kg/m²; 95% CI -0.85 to -0.18). Effects were typically observed at 8 weeks (median study duration 56 days). The most studied populations are patients with metabolic diseases, though results are not entirely consistent across groups.

  • Studied populations: Patients with metabolic diseases (e.g., type 2 diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, hypertension)

Caveats: Effect sizes are small (BMI reduction ~0.5 kg/m²) and may not be clinically meaningful. One meta-analysis restricted to type 2 diabetes patients found no significant effect, suggesting potential population-specific differences. Doses varied widely across studies (200–4600 mg/day), with no clear dose-response relationship identified. Most studies lasted 8 weeks or longer, suggesting effects may require sustained supplementation.

Generated Jul 10, 2026
Doses used in studies
  • mg/day: 200–4,600 (median 1,000, IQR 300–2,800) — 3 studies
Time to effect
Median: 8 weeks · IQR 4.5 weeks–2.8 months · Range 7 days–3.7 months — Reported in 3 of 5 studies
5 of 5 papers
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