Definition

A topical preparation containing the oil extracted from the seeds of Nigella sativa, also known as black seed or black cumin, with potential antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory activities. Upon topical administration of Nigella sativa seed oil, the main constituent thymoquinone may stimulate various cytoprotective antioxidant enzymes. Thymoquinone may also exert anti-inflammatory activity by decreasing the production of inflammation mediators, such as tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-alpha, interleukin (IL) 1-beta and IL-6, and inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes, including cyclooxygenase (COX). In addition, thymoquinone may modulate the activity of various immune cells such as T-cells, B-cells, macrophages, neutrophils, natural killer (NK) cells, and dendritic cells (DCs). This may decrease the wound healing process time and may reduce radiation dermatitis upon radiation therapy.