What is Nigella sativa, how does it work, and how do I take it?

Nigella sativa — also called Black Cumin Seed, Black Caraway, Black Seed, or Kalonji — contains the active ingredient Thymoquinone. It is a powerful natural compound used as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, antiparasitic and antiviral. It is available in seeds or oil that can be added to food, or in supplements.

A randomized placebo-controlled study demonstrated that the combination of honey and Nigella sativa hastened recovery, decreased viral shedding, and reduced mortality in patients with both moderate and severe COVID-19 infection. In addition, Nigella sativa is a zinc ionophore, meaning it transports the element into the body’s cells.