Evidence supporting the use of: Nigella seed
For the body system: Hair

Links: Go back one page, Tool main page, Ingredients list, Health conditions list, Body systems list

Table of Contents

Synopsis

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

Nigella seed, also known as black seed or Nigella sativa, has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, particularly in the Middle East, South Asia, and parts of Africa. Traditional practitioners have used Nigella seed oil and extracts to promote hair health, address hair thinning, and even manage conditions like dandruff or scalp irritation. The supposed benefits are largely attributed to the seed's anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, which are believed to support scalp health and, by extension, hair growth and strength.

From a scientific perspective, there are a limited number of in vitro and animal studies suggesting that thymoquinone, the main active compound in Nigella seed, has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that could theoretically benefit the scalp and hair follicles. However, robust human clinical studies specifically investigating the effects of Nigella seed on hair growth or hair health are lacking. Most of the available evidence is anecdotal or comes from traditional usage.

In summary, the use of Nigella seed for supporting the hair is primarily justified by traditional evidence rather than rigorous scientific validation. While some early laboratory findings support potential mechanisms of benefit, more high-quality research in humans is needed to confirm its efficacy for hair health.

More about Nigella seed
More about Hair

Products containing Nigella seed

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.