Fight against Covid-19: Nigella sativa, a Potential Curative

Abstract

COVID-19 has rampaged across continents and has caused a devastating impact on life, economy, mobility, and health. Vaccines are still under clinical trials however there is no immediate solution or drug at hand for effective treatment. During this time, finding an unorthodox solution has become the need of the hour. Nigella sativa, commonly known as the black seed has been widely used as a traditional medicine in the past to fight illnesses. Chief compounds of N. Sativa seed, especially thymiquinone, α‐hederin, and nigellidine, could be developed into promising herbal drugs to combat COVID‐19 due to their therapeutic benefits. Extensive studies on N. Sativa have demonstrated its wide spectrum pharmacological properties which include immunomodulatory, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, bronchodilatory, hepato-protective, reno-protective, gastro-protective, and antioxidant properties that can serve as a potent inhibitor for SARS-CoV-2. Furthermore, N. Sativa has also exhibited antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and antibacterial properties which would help COVID-19 patients with comorbidities. The objective of this review is aimed at establishing a link between the pharmacological benefits of N. Sativa and its potential to serve as a cure for COVID-19.