Nigella Sativa Used to Treat Opioid Dependance

Nigella sativa is also known as black cumin, kalonji and black seeds. It has been used for centuries to treat allergies, migraines, asthma, cancer and more.  Now Nigella sativa is being studied for the effects it has on opioid withdrawal symptoms. Opioids or opiates, are a class of drugs that include heroin, codeine, and methadone.

There have been several studies on the use of Nigella sativa on opioid withdrawals and all showed very positive. In 2008 the Pharmacology Department in Abbatobad studies the effects of using Nigella sativa (500mg) daily and found that the use of this herbal treatment not only help to alleviate symptoms of withdrawal, but also cured the infection and weakness problems.  Symptoms of withdrawal include: muscle aches, agitation, sweating, insomnia, diarrhea, abdominal cramps, anxiety and vomiting.

Nigella sativa should be taken daily and continuously, even after the withdrawal is complete. While some addicts claim it completely cured them from all desires, further study is indicated before conclusive statements can be made.

Conclusion: Non opioid drug Nigella sativa is effective in long term treatment of opioid dependence. It not merely cures the opioid dependence but also cures the infections and weakness from which majority of addicts suffer. (1)

According to "The Fix" They say it helps them to withdraw, and even to stay clean afterwards. “I never wanted to be on methadone. I had seen people detoxing from that and it was horrific," Dylan, a recovering heroin addict from Wales, tells The Fix. "I tried many different remedies but Nigella seed oil really works, it helped ease my withdrawal and now I am clean I find it has a calming and restorative effect.”

Others have stated that "Nigella Sativa" Blessed seed 100% oil' calming and stimulating and alleviates lots of the physical and psychological stresses of withdrawal.' This website stated that  2 capsules was enough, but my estimates is that you need more. When you are initially withdrawing off of the drugs, you will need more help.  As the symptoms ease you too can ease the dosage. One teaspoon twice a day is more appropriate.

The studies used 500 mg of Nigella sativa and 1 capsule holds only 1/4 teaspoon of oil. Another user reported taking as much as 2 tablespoons per day and that is too much and too much Nigella sativa is toxic.  The participant also stated he was told to take 2 teaspoons of  Nigella sativa, but opted for more. More does not work faster.

Take the oil on an empty stomach 1/2 hour before breakfast and before sleeping.  Mix the oil with equal amounts of raw honey or the juice of one orange if you prefer. 

Resources:

Department of Pharmacology, Abbatobad 
Higher Education of Pakistan