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Evidence-Based Supplement Research
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Black Cumin and Reduced Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha

Research synthesisModerate evidenceModerate effect4 studies · 4 beneficial · 0 neutral · 0 harmful

Across 4 studies, all reported beneficial effects of Black Cumin (Nigella sativa) supplementation on reducing tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). Two high-quality meta-analyses found moderate effect sizes, and one umbrella meta-analysis reported a large effect. The only study reporting dose used a range of 200–4600 mg/day over 7 days, but most studies did not specify dose or duration. Effects were observed in general populations and those with metabolic syndrome.

  • Studied populations: general population and individuals with metabolic syndrome and related conditions

Caveats: Available evidence is overwhelmingly positive — clinical literature in this area is subject to publication bias (null-result studies are less likely to be published or indexed). The evidence base is small (only 4 studies) — conclusions should be considered preliminary. Most studies did not report dose, duration, or form of Black Cumin, limiting practical guidance. The one study reporting duration used only 7 days, so longer-term effects are unknown.

Generated Jul 4, 2026
Doses used in studies
  • mg/day: 200–4,600 (median 2,400, IQR 200–4,600) — 1 study
Time to effect
Median: 7 days · IQR 7 days–7 days · Range 7 days–7 days — Reported in 1 of 4 studies
4 of 4 papers
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