Nigella sativa L.

Nigella sativa, commonly known as “black cumin” or “black seed”, is an annual flowering plant in the family Ranunculaceae. It is widely distributed in North Africa, the Middle East, Europe, and Asia. This chapter summarizes a research update on the pharmacological activities of N. sativa. Based on research thymoquinone (TQ) is a major bioactive compound in N. sativa that significantly contributes to its therapeutic effects. N. sativa has also been reported to exhibit antidiabetic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, analgesic, and immunomodulatory properties. It is emphasized that further research is needed to fully elucidate its potential and mechanisms of action.