Recent research from Osaka Metropolitan University has unveiled groundbreaking findings on black cumin seed (Nigella sativa) and its effects on cholesterol levels. In a randomized controlled trial published in September 2025, researchers reported that participants who consumed 5 grams of black cumin seed powder daily saw significant improvements in their cholesterol markers in just 8 weeks. This included a decrease in total cholesterol, LDL, and triglycerides, along with an increase in HDL cholesterol 🙌.
For more details on this study, check out the publication in Food Science and Nutrition. The results derived from Professor Akiko Kojima-Yuasa’s research support over 3,000 years of traditional use, demonstrating the seed’s efficacy in cholesterol management.
The research highlighted four critical mechanisms through which thymoquinone, the active compound in black cumin, exerts its effects: targeting HMG-CoA reductase (the same enzyme that statins target), increasing LDL receptors, enhancing phytosterol activity, and inhibiting fat cell proliferation. An additional meta-analysis that pooled the results of over 17 randomized trials confirmed the consistent positive effects of black cumin on cholesterol levels.
Notably, the study also reported appetite control effects and how the results unfolded over time. In the first two weeks, participants experienced minimal visible changes, but by weeks six to eight, remarkable transformations were observed. However, four common mistakes included inconsistency in intake, unrealistic expectations, poor quality products, and giving up too soon. It was emphasized that thymoquinone content can vary dramatically between brands, impacting overall effectiveness.
It’s crucial for certain individuals—such as those on blood thinners, cholesterol medications, pregnant women, or people preparing for surgery—to consult their healthcare provider before integrating black cumin into their regimen, as it is not a replacement for statin drugs. For additional insights and to support our content, please visit our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/horizonshealth.
For further reading on critical medical disclaimers regarding black cumin seed, check here: https://pastebin.com/DbCke2B8.
By Horizons Health