Turmeric-Black Cumin Essential Oils and Their Capacity to Attenuate Free Radicals, Protein Denaturation, and Cancer Proliferation.

Turmeric rhizomes (Curcuma longa) and black cumin seeds (Nigella sativa) are polyherbal ingredients used for the management of cancer and other chronic inflammatory diseases in Nigerian ethnomedicine. Previous studies have shown the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer activities of the individual plant extracts. However, the two spices have not been biologically potentiated in their combined form. Therefore, this study obtained essential oils (EOs) from the combined spices and evaluated their inhibitory effects on free radicals, protein denaturation, and cancer proliferation. The EOs were extracted by hydro-distillation (HD) and characterized by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). In vitro antioxidant assessment was conducted based on DPPH, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2), nitric oxide (NO), and ferric ion (Fe3+) radical scavenging assays. The cytotoxicity of the oil against non-tumorigenic (HEK293) and cancerous (HepG2 and HeLa) cell lines was determined following the MTT cell viability assay. An in silico molecular docking analysis of the oil constituents was also performed. Six batches of EOs I-VI were afforded, comprising twenty-two major constituents, with aromatic Ar-turmerone being the most prominent compound. There was a marked improvement in the bioactivity of the oils upon repeated HD and as a combination. The batch VI oil exhibited the best activity, with a cytotoxicity (CC50) of 10.16 ± 1.69 µg/100 µL against the HepG2 cell line, which was comparable to 5-fluorouracil (standard, CC50 = 8.59 ± 1.33 µg/100 µL). In silico molecular docking suggested δ-curcumene, Ar-curcumene, Ar-turmerol, and Ar-turmerone among the promising compounds based on their high binding energy scores with NOX2, NF-κB, and mdm2 proteins. In conclusion, the oils from the turmeric-black cumin combined possess a considerable inhibition ability against free radicals, protein denaturation, and cancer proliferation. This study's findings further underscore the effectiveness of turmeric-black cumin as a polyherbal medicinal ingredient.

A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to evaluate the benefits of a standardized Nigella sativa oil containing 5% thymoquinone in reducing the symptoms of seasonal allergy.

BACKGROUND: Allergic rhinitis (AR) or seasonal allergy characterized by sneezing, nasal congestion, nasal itching, and nasal discharge, triggered by immune reactions to environmental allergens. Present day customers also monitor the personal improvements in the area of Evidence-Based natural medicines/supplements. METHODS: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted on 65 participants aged 18 to 60 years having 2 or more allergic symptoms like sneezing, rhinorrhoea, nasal obstruction, and nasal itching for a cumulative period greater than 1 hour per day. The study participants received a capsule of NSO (250 mg) with 2.5 mg piperine (BioPerine) as a bioavailability enhancer or a placebo, twice a day, after food for 15 days. The primary objectives were evaluated by mean change in Total Nasal Symptom Score and the duration of AR symptoms per day from baseline to Day 15. Secondary endpoints were changes in Total Ocular Symptoms Score, AR symptom frequency and severity, serum Immunoglobulin E levels, and Patient Global Impression of Change scale. Adverse events were monitored throughout the study. RESULTS: Sixty-five patients were enrolled and all of them completed the study, N = 33 in NSO and N = 32 in placebo. A significant reduction in Total Nasal Symptom Score and Total Ocular Symptoms Score was observed in the NSO group compared to the placebo, highlighting the potential of NSO in alleviating AR symptoms. The episodes of AR symptoms per day and the frequency of symptoms in 24 hours reduced significantly in 15 days in both groups, but the extent of improvement was significantly higher in NSO compared to placebo. Improvement in Patient Global Impression of Change was also significantly better in NSO compared to the placebo. Serum Immunoglobulin E levels decreased in NSO but were not significantly different from placebo. No clinically significant changes were observed in vital signs, liver and renal function, lipid profile, hematology, fasting blood sugar, or urine analysis at the end of the study. CONCLUSION: The result of the study demonstrates that NSO 250 mg with 2.5 mg piperine is an effective and well-tolerated supplement for the management of AR symptoms.

Prevention of Chronic Diabetic Neuropathy and Diabetes-Associated Cognitive Impairment Using Medicinal Herbs (Cassia Angustifolia and Nigella Sativa).

Nodal regions, areas of intensive contact between Schwann cells and axons, may be exceptionally vulnerable to diabetes-induced changes because they are exposed to and impacted by the metabolic implications of diabetes. Insulin receptors, glucose transporters, Na+ and K+ channels, and mitochondria are abundant in nodes, all of which have been linked to the development and progression of Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy (DPN) and Type 1 Diabetes Mellitus (T1DM)-associated cognitive impairment. Our study aimed to evaluate if the administration of Nigella sativa (NS) and Cassia angustifolia (CA) prevented diabetes-associated nervous system deficits in hyperglycemic mice. We developed T1DM mice through Streptozotocin (STZ) injections and validated the elevations in blood glucose levels. NS and CA were administered immediately upon the induction of diabetes. Behavioral analysis, histopathological evaluations, and assessment of molecular biomarkers (NR2A, MPZ, NfL) were performed to assess neuropathy and cognitive impairment. Improvements in memory, myelin loss, and the expression of synaptic proteins, even with the retention of hyperglycemia, were evident in the mice who were given a dose of herbal products upon the detection of hyperglycemia. NS was more beneficial in preventing memory impairments, demyelination, and synaptic dysfunction. The findings indicate that including these herbs in the diets of diabetic as well as pre-diabetic patients can reduce complications associated with T1DM, notably diabetic peripheral neuropathy and cognitive deficits associated with T1DM.

Unlocking the therapeutic potential of Nigella sativa extract: phytochemical analysis and revealing antimicrobial and antioxidant marvels.

The growing global threat of antimicrobial resistance endangers both human and animal life, necessitating the urgent discovery of novel antimicrobial solutions. Medicinal plants hold promise as sources of potential antimicrobial compounds. In this study, we investigated the phytochemical constituents and microbicidal capabilities of the ethanolic extract from Nigella sativa (black seed). Gas chromatography analysis (GC) identified 11 compounds, among them thymoquinone, and thymol, contributing to antimicrobial and antioxidant properties. Antimicrobial assays demonstrated notable inhibition zones against broad spectra of bacteria, including Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Escherichia coli, Salmonella typhi, Staphylococcus aureus, Enterobacter, and Bacillus subtilis, along with potent antifungal activity against Aspergillus niger, Penicillium, and Candida albicans. Notably, when combined with antibiotics, the extract displayed exceptional synergistic antimicrobial efficacy. The black seed extract demonstrated membrane-damaging activity and disrupted virulence factors that protect microbes from antimicrobial agents, including the formation of bacterial biofilm and protease secretion. Thymoquinone, the primary active constituent of the extract, exhibited similar antimicrobial and ant virulence properties. In silico analysis targeting key regulators of quorum sensing and biofilm formation in P. aeruginosa, such as RhlG, LasR, and PqsR, showed a remarkable affinity of thymol and thymoquinone for these targets. Moreover, the N. sativa extract exhibited dose-dependent cytotoxicity against both the promastigote and amastigote forms of Leishmania tropica parasites, hinting at potential antiparasitic activity. In addition to its antimicrobial properties, the extract displayed potential antioxidant activity at a concentration of 400 µg/mL.

The possible short-term of Nigella sativa - L in the management of adolescent polycystic ovarian syndrome: results of a randomized controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is the most common endocrine disorder in reproductive age and the most common cause of infertility due to anovulation. PCOS in adolescents is concerning. Nigella sativa is effective in improving gonadotropins and sex hormones. The current study was designed to investigate the effect of Nigella sativa supplementation on PCOS symptoms and their severity in adolescents. METHODS: The current randomized clinical trial was conducted on 114 adolescents with PCOS who were referred to gynecologist offices and clinics in Gonabad, Iran from March 2022 to March 2023. Participants were randomly allocated to the intervention (Nigella sativa 1000 mg/day) and control (10 mg/day medroxyprogesterone from the 14th day of the cycle for 10 nights) groups. The study duration was 16 weeks. Ovarian volume (measured by ultrasound), anthropometric and blood pressure; serum testosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEA-S), luteinizing hormone (LH), hirsutism severity (Ferriman-Gallwey score) levels were evaluated before and after the study. RESULTS: Data from 103 participants (control group = 53, intervention group = 50) were analyzed. The mean age of participants was 17.0 (Interquartile range [IQR]:2.0). The mean difference in hirsutism score changes (p < 0.001), right (p = 0.002), and left (p = 0.010) ovarian volume, serum LH (p < 0.001) and testosterone (p = 0.001) were significantly higher in the intervention group compared to the control group. The frequency of oligomenorrhea, menometrorrhagia, and amenorrhea, were significantly reduced after the study in the intervention group compared to the control group (ps < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS: Short-term Nigella sativa supplementation may be effective in reducing ovarian volume and improving hormonal balance, and menstrual irregularities in adolescents with PCOS. Further research and long-term studies are warranted to validate the potential therapeutic effects of Nigella sativa in adolescents with PCOS. IRCT REGISTRATION NUMBER: IRCT20221017056209N1 Registration date: 2022-11-22.

Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials in Uses of Nigella Sativa (Black Seed) in Metabolic Syndrome.

BACKGROUND: Metabolic syndrome as defined by The National Cholesterol Education Panel-Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEPATP III), is the presence of obesity, dyslipidaemia, the elevation of arterial blood pressure, and glucose intolerance. It affects 25% to 40% of the adult population of Malaysia and is associated with other medical conditions, especially cardiovascular disease. In this systematic review, the objective is to assess the effects of Nigella Sativa on parameters that reflect metabolic syndromes, such as lipid profile, blood pressure, blood glucose, and anthropometry indices. METHODS: This systematic review was conducted by performing searches for relevant publications on two databases (PubMed and Scopus). The publication period was limited from January 2011 to December 2021. Cochrane collaboration tools were used for the risk of bias assessment of each trial. RESULT: Six out of 8 randomised controlled trials (n:776) demonstrated a significant improvement in lipid profile (p <0.05), 5 out of 7 trials (n:701) showed a significant reduction in glycaemic indices (p <0.05), 1 out of 5 trials (n:551) demonstrated significant improvements in blood pressure (p <0.05), and 2 out of 7 trials (n:705) showed a significant reduction in anthropometric measurements (p <0.05). CONCLUSION: Nigella Sativa has proved to have a significant positive effect on lipid profile and glycaemic index. The results showed in the parameters of blood pressure and anthropometric indices are less convincing, as results were inconsistent across studies. Nigella Sativa can therefore be recommended as an adjunct therapy for metabolic syndrome.

CONTEXTE: Le syndrome métabolique, tel que défini par le National Cholesterol Education Panel-Adult Treatment Panel III (NCEP-ATP III), se caractérise par la présence d'obésité, de dyslipidémie, d'hypertension artérielle et d'intolérance au glucose. Il affecte 25% à 40% de la population adulte en Malaisie et est associé à d' autres affections médicales, notamment les maladies cardiovasculaires. L'objectif de cette revue systématique est d'évaluer les effets de Nigella Sativa sur des paramètres reflétant le syndrome métabolique, tels que le profil lipidique, la pression artérielle, la glycémie et les indices anthropométriques. MÉTHODES: Cette revue systématique a été réalisée en effectuant des recherches de publications pertinentes dans deux bases de données (PubMed et Scopus). La période de publication était limitée de janvier 2011 à décembre 2021. Les outils de la collaboration Cochrane ont été utilisés pour évaluer le risque de biais de chaque essai. RÉSULTATS: Six des huit essais contrôlés randomisés (n : 776) ont montré une amélioration significative du profil lipidique (p <0,05), cinq des sept essais (n : 701) ont montré une réduction significative des indices glycémiques (p <0,05), un des cinq essais (n : 551) a démontré des améliorations significatives de la pression artérielle (p<0,05), et deux des sept essais (n : 705) ont montré une réduction significative des mesures anthropométriques (p <0,05). CONCLUSION: Nigella Sativa a prouvé avoir un effet positif significatif sur le profil lipidique et les indices glycémiques. Les résultats concernant les paramètres de la pression artérielle et des indices anthropométriques sont moins convaincants, car les résultats étaient incohérents entre les études. Nigella Sativa peut donc être recommandée comme thérapie adjuvante pour le syndrome métabolique. MOTS CLÉS: Nigella Sativa, Graines de nigelle, Essai contrôlé randomisé, Syndrome métabolique.

Protection against α-Amanitin-induced liver toxicity: Efficacy of pomegranate seed oil and black cumin oil.

The consumption of mushrooms containing α-Amanitin (α-A) can lead to severe liver damage. In this study, toxicological experiments were conducted to confirm the protective effects of pomegranate seed oil (PSO) and black cumin oil (BCO) against α-A-induced hepatotoxicity. Rats exposed once to α-A (3 mg/kg bw, i.p.) or saline alone (0.1 ml, i.p.) were either left untreated or treated with PSO or BCO at a dose of 2 ml/kg bw/day by oral gavage on the same day, and the treatment was continued for 7 days. Serum aminotransferases (ALT and AST), alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and total protein levels were measured and the active caspase 3 (cl-caspase 3) was evaluated by western blotting in the liver. Serum ALT, AST and ALP levels tended to decrease in the α-A exposed group, but no statistically significant difference was found compared to the saline group (p > 0.05). PSO and BCO did not affect serum liver function tests in rats exposed to saline or α-A. α-A toxicity was demonstrated by a significant decrease in serum total protein level (p < 0.05), a significant increase in liver cl-caspase 3 expression (p < 0.05), and structural liver damage mainly characterized by mononuclear inflammation and steatosis. When α-A exposed rats were treated with BCO, the increase in cl-caspase 3 was not inhibited, on the contrary BCO increased cl-caspase 3 in healthy rats (p < 0.05). PSO significantly ameliorated α-A-induced cl-caspase 3 increase and inflammatory histopathology in the liver. Both PSO and BCO completely prevented α-A-induced protein degradation. The findings indicate that PSO and BCO may protect liver functions against α-A-induced hepatotoxicity, encouraging future comprehensive studies to test them at different doses and frequency.

Evaluation of the qualitative properties of the oil extracted from the mixture of Helianthus annuus and Nigella sativa seeds during heating.

The oil obtained from black cumin (Nigella sativa) seeds has many health-effective properties, which is used in food applications and in traditional medicine. One practical method to extract its oil is mixing with other seeds such as sunflower (Helianthus anuus) seeds before oil extraction by press. The effectiveness of the cold-press oil obtained from the mixture of black cumin seeds (BS) and sunflower seeds (SF) in different proportions 100:0, 95:5, 90:10, 85:15 and 0:100 (w/w) was studied to evaluate their qualitative properties including peroxide value (PV), acid value, p-anisidine value (AnV), pigments (carotenoid and chlorophyll) content, polyphenols, and profile of fatty acids during heating process (30-150 min at 180 °C). The results revealed that the acid and p-anisidine value of the all samples enhanced with the extension of the heating time, and the peroxide value increased at the beginning of the heating and then decreased with the prolongation of the heating time (p < .05). With the increase of temperature and heating time, the peroxide of sunflower oil increased with a higher slope and speed than that of black seed and blends oil. Changes in the PV and AnV were the fastest in sunflower oil. Blending and heating caused considerable changes in the fatty acid composition of oils, especially myristic, palmitic, and stearic acids. Moreover, the levels of certain unsaturated fatty acids, namely linoleic, oleic, and linolenic acids declined after heating. The carotenoids, chlorophyll and total phenol content decreased gradually during heating treatments. Among extracted oils, SF:BS (15%) had the good potential for stability, with total phenol content of 95.92 (Caffeic acid equivalents/100 g), PV of 2.16 (meq O2/kg), AV of 2.59 (mg KOH/g oil), and AnV of 8.08 after the heating. In conclusion, oil extracted from the mixture of SF and BS can be used as salad and cooking oils with a high content of bioactive components and positive nutritional properties.

Black seed assisted synthesis, characterization, free radical scavenging, antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activity of iron oxide nanoparticles.

Iron nanoparticles comprise a significant class of inorganic nanoparticles, which discover applications in various zones by prudence of their few exciting properties. This study achieved the green synthesis of iron oxide nanoparticles (IONPs) by black cumin seed (Nigella sativa) extract, which acts as a reducing and capping agent. The iron nanoparticles and black cumin extract were synthesized in three different concentrations: (01:01, 02:04,01:04). UV-visible spectroscopy, XRD, FTIR, and AFM characterized the synthesized iron oxide nanoparticles. UV-visible spectra show the maximum absorbance peak of 01:01 concentration at 380 nm. The other concentrations, such as 02:04, peaked at 400 nm and 01:04 at 680 nm, confirming the formation of iron oxide nanoparticles. AFM analysis reveals the spherical shape of iron oxide nanoparticles. The XRD spectra reveal the (fcc) cubic crystal structure of the iron oxide nanoparticles. The FTIR analysis's peaks at 457.13, 455.20, and 457.13 cm-1 depict the characteristic iron nanoparticle synthesis. The black cumin extract-mediated iron oxide nanoparticles show substantial antibacterial, antifungal, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in a dose-dependent manner.

Phytochemical Analysis and Anti-Biofilm Potential That Cause Dental Caries from Black Cumin Seeds (Nigella sativa Linn.).

The oral cavity is an excellent place for various microorganisms to grow. Spectrococcus mutans and Spectrococcus sanguinis are Gram-negative bacteria found in the oral cavity as pioneer biofilm formers on the tooth surface that cause caries. Caries treatment has been done with antibiotics and therapeutics, but the resistance level of S. mutans and S. sanguinis bacteria necessitates the exploration of new drug compounds. Black cumin (Nigella sativa Linn.) is known to contain secondary metabolites that have antioxidant, antibacterial, anti-biofilm, anti-inflammatory and antifungal activities. The purpose of this review article is to present data on the potential of Nigella sativa Linn seeds as anti-biofilm. This article will discuss biofilm-forming bacteria, the resistance mechanism of antibiotics, the bioactivity of N. sativa extracts and seed isolates together with the Structure Activity Relationship (SAR) review of N. sativa compound isolates. We collected data from reliable references that will illustrate the potential of N. sativa seeds as anti-biofilm drug.

Genetic characterization and phylogenetic analysis of the Nigella sativa (black seed) plastome.

In this study, the complete plastome sequence of Nigella sativa (black seed), was analyzed for the first time. The plastome spans approximately 154,120 bp, comprising four sections: the Large Single-Copy (LSC) (85,538 bp), the Small Single-Copy (SSC) (17,984 bp), and two Inverted Repeat (IR) regions (25,299 bp). A comparative study of N. sativa's plastome with ten other species from various genera in the Ranunculaceae family reveals substantial structural variations. The contraction of the inverted repeat region in N. sativa influences the boundaries of single-copy regions, resulting in a shorter plastome size than other species. When comparing the plastome of N. sativa with those of its related species, significant divergence is observed, particularly except for N. damascena. Among these, the plastome of A. glaucifolium displays the highest average pairwise sequence divergence (0.2851) with N. sativa, followed by A. raddeana (0.2290) and A. coerulea (0.1222). Furthermore, the study identified 12 distinct hotspot regions characterized by elevated Pi values (> 0.1). These regions include trnH-GUG-psbA, matK-trnQ-UUG, psbK-trnR-UCU, atpF-atpI, rpoB-psbD, ycf3-ndhJ, ndhC-cemA, petA-psaJ, trnN-GUU-ndhF, trnV-GAC-rps12, ycf2-trnI-CAU, and ndhA-ycf1. Approximately, 24 tandem and 48 palindromic and forward repeats were detected in N. sativa plastome. The analysis revealed 32 microsatellites with the majority being mononucleotide repeats. In the N. sativa plastome, phenylalanine had the highest number of codons (1982 codons), while alanine was the least common amino acid with 260 codons. A phylogenetic tree, constructed using protein-coding genes, revealed a distinct monophyletic clade comprising N. sativa and N. damascene, closely aligned with the Cimicifugeae tribe and exhibiting robust support. This plastome provides valuable genetic information for precise species identification, phylogenetic resolution, and evolutionary studies of N. sativa.

Force and power requirement for development of cumin harvester: a dynamic approach.

An experimental setup was developed for simulating the field conditions to determine the force and power required for cutting cumin crops in dynamic conditions. The effect of cutter bar speeds, forward speeds, and blade type on cutting force and power requirement for cutting cumin were also studied. Experiments were carried out at three levels: cutter bar speeds, forward speeds, and blade type. The results showed that all the factors significantly affected cutting force. The cutting force followed a decreasing trend with the increase in cutter bar speed. Whereas it followed an increasing trend with the increase in forward speed. The maximum cutting force for all three blades was observed at a cutter bar speed of 2.00 strokes.s-1 and forward speed of 0.46 m.s-1. The idle power and actual power required for cutting the cumin crop were also determined based on the cutting force. The results obtained were validated by the power drawn from the power source while operating the cutter bar blades. The R2 values for Blade-B1, Blade-B2, and Blade-B3 were 0.90, 0.82, and 0.88, respectively. The cutting force was primarily affected by the cutter bar speed, resulting in PCR values of 74.20%, 82.32%, and 81.75% for Blade-B1, Blade-B2, and Blade-B3, respectively, followed by the forward speed, which also had an impact on PCR values of 16.60%, 15.27%, and 18.25% for Blade-B1, Blade-B2, and Blade-B3, respectively. The cutting force for Blade-B1, Blade-B2, and Blade-B3 varied from 15.96 to 58.97 N, 21.08 to 76.64 N, and 30.22 to 85.31, respectively, for the selected range of cutter bar speed and forward speed. Blade-B1 had 18 and 30% less power consumption than Blade-B2 and Blade-B3, respectively.

Nutraceutical activities of Trigonella foenum-graecum and Nigella sativa seeds in the management of diabetes-induced in albino rats.

Diabetes causes elevated blood sugar levels, and it has been categorized as one of the most frequent causes of death worldwide. This work aimed to analyze and compare the nutraceutical and therapeutic efficacy of fenugreek seeds (FSs) (Trigonella foenum-graecum) and black cumin seeds (BCSs) (Nigella sativa) against streptozotocin-induced diabetes mellitus in albino rats. FS and BCSs were evaluated for proximate analysis, phytochemicals, and antioxidant activities. Male albino rats were used to evaluate the in vivo antidiabetic activities of these medicinal plants for 42 days. Blood samples were drawn at regular intervals of 1 week to analyze blood glucose, plasma insulin, and cholesterol levels and to determine the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA IR) index. At the end of the trial, pancreas tissue was also collected for histological examination. Results of the proximate analysis showed the significant presence of moisture, ash, fat, protein, and fiber. Antioxidant parameters like 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl, total phenolic content, and total flavonoid content were found to be significant. There was a significant (p < 0.05) decrease in blood glucose level, serum cholesterol level, and insulin resistance in treatment groups T3-T5. Insulin and body weight results of treatment groups were significant (p < 0.05) compared to streptozotocin-intoxicated animals. Histological examination revealed the nutraceutical impact of selected herbal plants due to enhancing impact on the size and the number of ß-cells in the pancreas. Findings of current research work explore the antidiabetic capacity of selected nutraceutical and medicinal plants.

Role of Thymoquinone on sleep restriction and its mitigating effect on leptin-mediated signaling pathway in rat brain.

BACKGROUND: Sleep and stress interact bidirectionally by acting on brain circuits that affect metabolism. Sleep and its alterations have impact on blood leptin levels, metabolic hormone that regulates appetite. Brain expresses the receptors for the peptide hormone leptin produced from adipocytes. The hypothalamic orexin neurons are low during sleep and active when awake, influenced by a complex interaction with leptin. Thymoquinone was found to be the major bioactive component of Nigella sativa. The aim of this study was to study the role of thymoquinone on sleep restriction and its mitigating effect on leptin-mediated signaling pathway in rat brain. METHODS AND RESULTS: 30 adult male Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups with 6 animals in each group: Control; Thymoquinone (TQ); Corn oil; Chronic Sleep restriction (CSR); and CSR + TQ. After 30 days, behavioral analysis, antioxidant, lipid profile, glucose level, liver and kidney function test, neurotransmitters, neuropeptides, and mRNA expression in in vivo studies were also assessed and pharmacokinetic and docking were done for thymoquinone. Thymoquinone has also shown good binding affinity to the target proteins. CSR has induced oxidative stress in the discrete brain regions and plasma. Current study has shown many evidences that sleep restriction has altered the neurobehavioral, antioxidant status, lipid profile, neurotransmitters, neuropeptide levels, and feeding behavior which damage the Orexin-leptin system which regulates the sleep and feeding that leads to metabolic dysfunction. CONCLUSION: The potentiality of Thymoquinone was revealed in in silico studies, and its action in in vivo studies has proved its effectiveness. The study concludes that Thymoquinone has exhibited its effect by diminishing the metabolic dysfunction by its neuroprotective, antioxidant, and hypolipidemic properties.

The Effect of Therapeutic Doses of Culinary Spices in Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized Controlled Trial.

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) place a significant burden on global health and the healthcare systems which support it. Metabolic syndrome is a major risk factor for a large number of NCDs; however, treatments remain limited. Previous research has shown the protective benefits of edible dietary spices on key components of metabolic syndrome. Therefore we performed a 12-week double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized, clinical trial to evaluate the effect of ginger (Zingiber officinale), cinnamon (Cinnamomum), and black seed (Nigella sativa) consumption on blood glucose, lipid profiles, and body composition in 120 participants with, or at risk of, metabolic syndrome. Each participant consumed 3 g/day of powder (spice or placebo). Data related to different parameters were collected from participants at the baseline, midpoint, and endpoint of the intervention. Over the 12-week interventions, there was an improvement in a number of biochemical indices of metabolic syndrome, including fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, LCL, and total cholesterol associated with supplementation with the spices when compared to a placebo. This study provides evidence to support the adjunct use of supplementation for those at risk of metabolic syndrome and its sequelae.

Nigella sativa-Fortified Cookies Ameliorate Oxidative Stress, Inflammatory and Immune Dysfunction in Plasmodium berghei-Infected Murine Model.

Malaria impedes the ability of primary cells of the immune system to generate an efficacious inflammatory and immune response. Black seed (Nigella sativa) is a core dietary supplement and food additive in folklore. This study investigated the antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory effects of N. sativa cookies in Plasmodium berghei-infected mice. Aqueous extract of black seed was prepared, and the total phenol and flavonoid contents were determined. The mice were infected with standard inoculum of the strain NK65 P. berghei. The mice weight and behavioral changes were observed. The mice were fed with the N. sativa cookies (2.5%, 5%, and 10%) and 10 mg/kg chloroquine for 5 consecutive days after the infection was established. The reactive oxygen species (ROS), malondialdehyde (MDA), superoxide dismutase, catalase, and hematological parameters (red cell indices, leukocytes, and its differentials) in the infected mice were determined. The inflammatory mediators, C-reactive protein (CRP), and myeloperoxidase (MPO) were also assayed. The result revealed that black seed had a total phenol content of 18.73 mgGAE/g and total flavonoid content of 0.36 mgQUE/g. The infected mice treated with N. sativa cookies showed significantly decreased parasitaemia, MDA, and ROS levels. Furthermore, the results showed significant suppression in proinflammatory mediators (CRP and MPO) levels and enhanced antioxidant status of infected mice treated with N. sativa. The study suggests that N. sativa could function as nutraceuticals in the management of Plasmodium infection associated with inflammatory and immunomodulatory disorders.

Insights into the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial potential of Nigella sativa essential oil against oral pathogens.

Oral disorders can exert systemic ramifications beyond their localized effects on dental tissues, implicating a wide array of physiological conditions. The utilization of essential oils (EOs) for protection of oral health represents a longstanding practice. Consequently, in this investigation, essential oil derived from Nigella sativa seeds (NSEO) underwent isolation via the hydro-distillation process, followed by a comprehensive evaluation of its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, antibacterial activities, and cytocompatibility. The isolated NSEO manifested as a pale-yellow substance and was found to harbor a diverse spectrum of bioactive constituents, including steroids, triterpenoids, flavonoids, phenols, proteins, alkaloids, tannin, sesquiterpenoid hydrocarbons, monoterpenoid alcohol, and monoterpenoid ketone (thymoquinone). Notably, the total phenolic content (TPC) and total flavonoid content (TFC) of NSEO were quantified at 641.23 µg GAE/gm and 442.25 µg QE/g, respectively. Furthermore, NSEO exhibited concentration-dependent inhibition of protein denaturation, HRBC membrane stabilization, and hemolysis inhibition. Comparative analysis revealed that NSEO and chlorhexidine (CHX) 0.2% displayed substantial inhibition of hemolysis compared to aspirin. While NSEO and CHX 0.2% demonstrated analogous antibacterial activity against Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa, NSEO showcased heightened efficacy against Lactobacillus acidophilus and Candida albicans. Additionally, NSEO exhibited pronounced effects against periodontal pathogens such as Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, Tannerella forsythia, and Prevotella intermedia. Importantly, no cytotoxicity was observed on human gingival fibroblast cell lines. These findings underscore the potential of NSEO as a potent antibacterial and antifungal agent in the management of oral microbial pathogens, thereby offering avenues for the development of innovative therapies targeting diverse oral inflammatory conditions. Nevertheless, further investigations are imperative to unlock its full therapeutic repertoire.

Effect of cyclodextrin-complexed lyophilized nanosuspension of Nigella sativa seeds oleoresin on chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced depression in mice.

Depression is a prevalent global health concern necessitating alternative approaches to conventional antidepressant medications due to its associated adverse effects. Nigella sativa (NS) is recognized for its potential as an antidepressant, offering a promising solution with fewer side effects. This study investigated the antidepressant efficacy of cyclodextrin-complexed lyophilized nanosuspension of NS oleoresin (NSOR) in a murine model of chronic unpredictable mild stress (CUMS)-induced depression. This study sought to evaluate and contrast the antidepressant potential of the nano-NSOR with that of the NS ethanolic extract (NSEE). The prepared nano-NSOR was characterized physicochemically and evaluated for in vitro drug release and in vivo antidepressant activity. The particle size of nano-NSOR was determined to be 164.6 nm. In vitro drug release studies suggested the higher drug release from nano-NSOR (90.15 % after 72 h) compared to the native NSOR (59.55 % after 72 h). Furthermore, nano-NSOR exhibited a more pronounced antidepressant effect than NSEE in the context of CUMS-induced depression. This study highlights a potential alternative for managing depression, addressing the need for improved antidepressant treatments with reduced side effects. These results suggest that nano-NSOR ameliorates CUMS-induced depression by modulating neurotransmitter levels, reducing inflammation, and enhancing neuroprotection.

Effects of Nigella sativa supplementation on lipid profiles in adults: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Several experiments have suggested that Nigella sativa (N. sativa) supplementation may have a beneficial effect on the lipid profile. However, the results from these trials have been inconclusive. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the impact of N. sativa supplementation on the lipid profile of adult participants. METHODS: We searched Scopus, Web of Science, PubMed, Cochrane, and Web of Science databases until December 2022. Random effects models were used, and pooled data were determined as standardized mean differences with a 95% confidence interval. RESULTS: The findings of 34 studies with 2278 participants revealed that N. sativa supplementation significantly reduced total cholesterol (TC) (SMD: -1.78; 95% CI: -2.20, -1.37, p < 0.001), triglycerides (TG) (SMD: -1.2725; 95% CI: -1.67, -0.83, p < 0.001), and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (SMD: -2.45; 95% CI: -3.06, -1.85; p < 0.001) compared to control groups. However, a significant increase was found in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) (SMD: 0.79; 95% CI: 0.38, 1.20, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: N. sativa has improved effects on TG, LDL-C, TC, and HDL-C levels. Overall, N. sativa may be suggested as an adjuvant anti-hyperlipidemic agent.

Nutrient utilization, growth performance, and antioxidative status of Barki lambs fed diets supplemented with black (Nigella sativa) and rocket (Eruca sativa) seeds.

The current study aimed to determine the polyphenol compounds in Nigella sativa (NS) and Eruca sativa (ES) seeds, and evaluate the impact of their addition either as a sole additive or in combination on the growth performance, digestibility, some rumen and blood parameters and antioxidative status of Barki lambs. Forty-eight male lambs (27.18 ± 0.22 kg, 5-6 months), were divided into 4 balanced groups. The experimental diets were randomly distributed to the control group (CON); fed alfalfa hay plus concentrate feed mixture at a ratio of 30:70% without additives, while, NSD, ESD, and NESD groups: fed CON diet plus 2% NS, 2% ES or 1% NS + 1% ES, respectively as a ratio from total mixed ration (TMR). Results indicated that rutin and catechin were the most phenolic compounds observed either in NS or ES seeds. The NS and ES-supplemented groups recorded the highest (P < 0.05) values for dry matter digestibility, nutritive values, average daily gain, and the best feed conversion ratio. However, growth performance, nutritive value, and all nutrient digestibility except for dry matter were not significantly altered with the NESD group. Concentrations of ruminal NH3-N and TVFA were significantly (P < 0.05) reduced with the NESD group, with no significant differences in pH values among different groups. Values of blood parameters showed significant increases in WBCs, PCV, and T-AOC, and decreases in cholesterol, triglycerides, and MDA with the addition of NS and ES seeds or both. Therefore, the addition of NS and ES seeds is recommended to improve lambs' health and antioxidant status.