NIGELLA SATIVA IN MODERN HEALTHCARE: PHARMACOLOGY, SAFETY, AND INTERACTION WITH CONVENTIONAL DRUGS

Nigella sativa, commonly known as black seed or Karunjeeragam, is a widely used medicinal plant consumed daily as a culinary spice, traditional remedy, and herbal supplement. It has been extensively used in Ayurveda, Unani, and traditional systems of medicine for the management of diabetes, hypertension, inflammatory disorders, and immune-related conditions. The increasing popularity of herbal medicines and their concurrent use with conventional allopathic drugs has raised concerns regarding herb–drug interactions and safety issues. Although Nigella sativa is generally considered safe, its bioactive constituents such as thymoquinone possess pharmacological properties that may influence drug metabolism and pharmacodynamics. This review aims to comprehensively compile and analyze existing literature on the botanical characteristics, phytochemical constituents, pharmacological activities, safety profile, adverse effects, and potential herb–drug interactions of Nigella sativa. Special emphasis is given to its interaction with commonly prescribed drugs used in chronic diseases. Understanding these interactions is essential to ensure the safe use of Nigella sativa in daily life and to promote rational use of herbal medicines.