Evidence supporting the use of: Nigella Seed
For the health condition: Cough (dry)

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Traditional
Rating (out of 5): 2

Nigella seed (Nigella sativa), also known as black seed or kalonji, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems such as Unani, Ayurveda, and traditional Islamic medicine for respiratory conditions, including coughs and bronchitis. Its use for dry cough in particular is most strongly rooted in these traditions, where it is often mentioned as an ingredient in herbal remedies intended to soothe irritation in the throat and ease cough symptoms. Historical texts and traditional practitioners have described Nigella seed as having expectorant, anti-inflammatory, and soothing properties potentially beneficial for coughs.

However, modern scientific validation of Nigella seed specifically for dry cough is limited. Some laboratory and animal studies suggest that Nigella seed and its active component, thymoquinone, have anti-inflammatory, bronchodilatory, and antimicrobial effects, which could theoretically help with respiratory symptoms. A few small clinical trials have explored its effects in asthma and allergic rhinitis, with some benefit reported, but robust clinical data specifically addressing its efficacy for dry cough are lacking. Thus, while its use for cough is well-grounded in tradition and supported by some plausible mechanisms, high-quality clinical evidence is limited, and further research is needed to confirm its efficacy and safety for this indication.

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Products containing Nigella Seed

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