The aim of this randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled trial was to investigate the efficacy and safety of Nigella sativa seed oil in the treatment of patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

To do so, 120 patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease were randomized to receive either 2.5 mL of a fully standardized N. sativa seed oil every 12 h or a placebo for 3 months.

Results showed that grade of hepatic steatosis was significantly reduces in the oil group compared to the placebo (p = 0.004). Moreover, triglycerides, LDL-C and HDL-C were significantly decreased compared to placebo (p = 0.001, p = 0.01, p = 0.001 respectively). However, the oil did not significantly affect the other outcome variables compared to the placebo (all p > 0.05).

Authors concluded that Nigella sativa seed oil seems to be safe and improve liver disorders in the NAFLD patients.

Khonche A, Huseini HF, Gholamian M, Mohtashami R, Nabati F, Kianbakht S. Standardized Nigella sativa seed oil ameliorates hepatic steatosis, aminotransferase and lipid levels in non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized, double-blind and placebo-controlled clinical trial. J Ethnopharmacol. 2019 Apr 24;234:106-111.