Side Effects of Nigella Sativa You Should be Aware of

Does Nigella Sativa have side effects?  As with all medicines and herbs, yes they can
have side effects if abused.  Nigella sativa can be toxic if taken in excess.  Never take more than 25 grams a day.

What is a safe dosage?  There is no cut and dry dosage for all disease.  There are around 40 dosages for different diseases and ailments.  Read the Dosage chart here.

So what is safe to take on a daily routine?  Never take more than 1 tablespoon of the oil or 7.5 teaspoons of the seeds or powder.  Even with cancer you do not need more than 1 tablespoon of oil daily.  Anyone or any blog that tells you elsewise should be avoided.

The percent of side effects with Nigella Sativa is so minute, it is almost not worth talking about, but there may be some who have slight reactions.

According to Web MD:

Black seed, when taken by mouth in small quantities, such as a flavoring for foods, is LIKELY SAFE for most people. Black seed oil and black seed extract are POSSIBLY SAFE when medical amounts are used short-term. 

Pregnancy and breast-feeding:  Never give Black seed to those who are pregnant or breast feeding. It is ok to give in small amounts in the food.   Black seed can slow down or stop the uterus from contracting.

Children: Black seed oil is POSSIBLY SAFE for children when taken by mouth short-term and in recommended amounts.  Children should be given 1/2 dose.  Never give children black seeds or oils under the age of 2 years old.

Bleeding disorders: Black seed might slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding. In theory, black seed might make bleeding disorders worse.

Surgery: Black seed might slow blood clotting, reduce blood sugar, and increase sleepiness in some people.  Stop using black seed at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.
According to Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, the Nigella Sativa is proven successful in the treatment of pancreatic cancer and shown to have a cure rate of 80% or more.  Nigella Sativa was also shown successful with high blood pressure, respiratory disease, inflammation and cell damage.

Noted Side Effects in Some Patients:

Contact Dermatitis

Contact dermatitis may occur when the oil is applied directly to the skin.  Keep in mind this is a tiny minute  of cases.   But the warning should be given.  It is best to test the skin first.  Always keep in mind to buy the best Nigella Sativa and not a cheap brand at a local India Shop.  The best black seed oil can be purchased here

How I suggest using the oil is heated in a stainless steel spoon.  Place a small amount in the spoon and hold over the fire for a few seconds until the oil is slightly warm and then apply to the areas of need.  If you have any reaction at all, you can mix the oil with an organic coconut oil.

Kidney or Liver Damage

The Nigella sativa seeds and oil  may cause kidney or liver damage when used in high doses. This is why I say never to take more than 1 tablespoon per day.  If you experience symptoms of kidney or liver damage, such as back or abdominal pain, urination changes, jaundice, fatigue or itchy skin, seek prompt care from your medical provider.

Interaction with Medications

Always talk with your doctor about any medication you are currently taking before you begin treatment with Nigella sativa. This supplement is an antioxidant and may protect cells against damage. Research has shown in the past that Nigella Sativa was taken satisfactorily with chemotherapy and radiology, but all cases are different and the buyer beware.

If you have hypertension, make sure to take the correct dosage (2 teaspoons per day) as the oil will cause a reduction in blood pressure and may make you dizzy.   It will normalize the blood pressure though when the proper levels are achieved.   Unlike some websites are reporting, it does not affect the pressure of those with low blood pressure.

According to Web MD, they have no information of any drug interactions at present.

I caution all my readers to buy the best oils available.  There are several suggestions on the right side of the blog.  Take the dosage correctly, read my article on dosages.