Phytochemical composition, therapeutical and pharmacological potential of Nigella sativa: A review

Abstract

Plants naturally produce chemical compounds, which are used to endorse health and fight against diseases and have been used traditionally. Nigella sativa (N. sativa) has a broad spectrum of usage in traditional folk medicines and it's a well-known medicinal herb in ancient Ayurveda, Siddha, Chinese, Arab and Unani Tibb. N. sativa stimulates the body with its natural vitalizing process and cures the disease. Phytochemically, N. sativa seed contains a wide range of fixed oils, proteins, alkaloids, saponin and essential oils. Most of the medicinal properties of N. sativa are due to the presence of the quinone constituent. Among the constituents of N. sativa, thymoquinone is one of the predominant bioactive compounds. The aim of this review is to explore the phytochemical, therapeutical and pharmacological potentials of N. sativa. N. sativa reported to have many therapeutical and pharmacological actions which includes antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, anticancer, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulator, cardioprotective, antihyperlipidemic, pulmonary protective, hepatoprotective, nephroprotective, gastroprotective, diuretics, anti-osteoporotic, dermatologic, neuroprotective effects and also has stimulative action on the reproductive system. N. sativa seeds and its derivatives have to be isolated and further investigations should be done using animal models and clinical trials to understand its novel molecular mechanism of action. So, N. sativa and the plant derived constituents can be used in the production of new drug and to treat several diseases.