Black seeds from the Nigella sativa plant have a long history of use in both traditional medicine and cooking.

This small plant, with its pale purple, blue, or white flowers, thrives in regions of the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Western Asia.

The oil extracted from these seeds contains thymoquinone, a compound known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Because of these properties, black seed oil is a popular ingredient in skin and hair care products.

However, recent studies have indicated potential negative effects of black seed oil on the kidneys.

This article will explore the side effects of black seed oil on kidney and offer strategies for mitigating them.

Impact of Black Seed Oil on Kidney Function

Despite its many benefits as an anti-inflammatory, Black Seed Oil Side Effects on Kidney have been observed in some people, especially those who suffer from health problems such as type 2 diabetes.

These side effects include:

• Acute kidney injury: Black seed oil can cause severe damage to the kidneys.
• Kidney failure: Cases of kidney failure have been reported after taking black seed oil in people with diabetes.
• Deterioration of kidney function: Black seed oil can cause deterioration of kidney function. (Science Direct, n.d.)

Other side effects:

• Allergic reactions, such as skin rash.
• Irregular menstrual bleeding.
• Nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Low blood sugar levels.

Who should avoid black seed oil:

• Pregnant or breastfeeding women.
• People who are about to undergo surgery.
• People taking anticoagulants.

Safe Dosage Recommendations

It is recommended not to exceed safe doses for people of black seed, which include:

Black seed oil: from one to one and a half grams of black seed oil daily for a period ranging from four to twelve weeks for healthy adults.

Black seed powder: It is given orally in amounts ranging from one to two grams daily for periods ranging from eight to twelve weeks only.

Consult your doctor before taking any type of nutritional supplement to make sure that the product and dose are suitable for you. (Medicine net., n.d.)

Potential Risks for Individuals with Kidney Disease

Black seed oil may not be safe for people with advanced kidney disease.

Side effects of black seed oil on the kidneys for these people include:

• Kidney damage: Taking too much black seed oil, in amounts up to 2,000–2,500 milligrams per day, can cause kidney damage.

Other side effects:

• Allergic reactions.
• Skin rash.
• Nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort.

Drug interactions:

Black seed oil may interact with anticoagulants. So, people at risk for bleeding or low blood sugar should avoid it.

Safety considerations:

• Black seed oil is generally considered safe to use in cooking.
• Pregnant or breastfeeding women should avoid black seed oil, except in small amounts as a flavoring.
• More research is needed on the safety of black seed oil for long-term use.

Benefits of Black Seed:

Although black seed oil may cause serious side effects for some, taking it under medical supervision within safe limits can give you some benefits, the most important of which are:

• Black seed oil helps treat kidney stones.
• Treats kidney complications resulting from stress factors.
• Helps treat high blood pressure and atherosclerosis.
• Treats dyslipidemia.
• Improves blood sugar levels and symptoms of diabetes.

References

1. Medicine net. (n.d.). Retrieved from What are safe dosages of black seed oil?
2. Science Direct. (n.d.). Retrieved from Rhabdomyolysis and acute kidney injury after consumption of black seed oil