This double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study was conducted to examine whether supplementation of black seed oil (BSO) can improve pulmonary function tests (PFTs), inflammation, and oxidant-antioxidant markers in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients.

To do so, 91 COPD patients were randomized to receive for 3 months either black seed oil (BSO) (2 g/d) or a placebo.

Results showed that BSO significantly decreased oxidant and inflammatory markers; thiobarbituric acid reactive-substances, protein carbonyl content, interleukin-6, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha. Also, a significant increase in antioxidants; superoxide dismutase, catalase, reduced glutathione, glutathione peroxidase, vitamin C, and E, and a significant improvement in PFTs versus control group and baseline levels.

In conclusion, supplementation of black seed oil may be an effective adjunct therapy to improve pulmonary functions, inflammation, and oxidant-antioxidant imbalance in COPD patients

Al-Azzawi MA, AboZaid MMN, Ibrahem RAL, Sakr MA. Therapeutic effects of black seed oil supplementation on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients: A randomized controlled double blind clinical trial. Heliyon. 2020 Aug 13;6(8):e04711