Synopsis

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

Black cumin (Nigella sativa) has a long history of use in traditional medicine systems, including Unani, Ayurveda, and traditional Islamic medicine. For headache and tension-type headaches, black cumin seeds or their oil have been recommended in historical texts and folk remedies, often as part of mixtures or poultices applied to the forehead, or as an oil for massage. The rationale in traditional medicine is generally based on black cumin’s purported anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and calming effects. However, while there are some studies on the general analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties of Nigella sativa, there is very limited direct scientific research specifically evaluating its efficacy in tension headaches. Most available evidence comes from small, low-quality studies or anecdotal reports. Therefore, the use of black cumin for tension headaches is primarily justified by traditional practices rather than robust clinical evidence. The evidence rating of 2 reflects a reliance on tradition and some indirect support from its general pain-relieving properties, but a lack of specific, high-quality clinical trials directly linking black cumin to headache relief.

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Designs For Health Annatto-E® Synergy (formerly Annatto Tocotrienols)