UNVEILING THE POWER OF NIGELLA SATIVA: A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW OF ITS PHYTOCHEMICAL ANTIOXIDANT AND ANTICANCER POTENTIAL

N. sativa or black seeds, has been utilized in traditional medicine across Asia, the Middle East, and the Far East to address ailments such as headaches, abdominal pain, rheumatism, and other conditions. The seeds of this plant have been the subject of extensive phytochemical and pharmacological research. The most significant active components in the plant include alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds, which are used in various medicinal and culinary traditions. Thymoquinone is a principal component of black seeds essential oil, has been identified as the key compound responsible for many therapeutic benefits. A broad spectrum of pharmacological actions, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, anti-cancer, and anti-proliferative activities, has been revealed for N. sativa. This study aimed to extensively analyze published research on Nigella sativa. By reviewing the existing literature, it synthesized and evaluated findings on the species botanical characteristics, chemical composition, pharmacological properties, and applications in medicine. The review also identified key trends, knowledge gaps, and areas for further research, highlighting N. sativa's significance in traditional medicine and its growing role in modern pharmacology. This comprehensive analysis serves as a valuable resource for researchers and practitioners interested in this important species.