A prospective randomized controlled pilot study of gut microbiome modulation by Nigella sativa seed oil and thymoquinone metabolism in healthy volunteers: implications for gastrointestinal surgery.
Ahmad Firas El-Banna, Howard Junca, Arndt Steube et al.
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In 30 seconds
This prospective randomized controlled pilot study investigated the effects of Nigella sativa seed oil (NSSO) on gut microbiome modulation in eight healthy adults. Participants received NSSO capsules or a control for 20 days. While no significant changes in overall microbiome diversity were observed, specific taxa showed notable changes, including Mediterraneibacter lactaris (p = 9 × 10⁻⁵). Urinary metabolites of thymoquinone were detected post-supplementation.
Key findings
- No significant differences in overall microbiome alpha or beta diversity were observed between treatment and control groups.
- Mediterraneibacter lactaris increased significantly (p = 9 × 10⁻⁵) in the treatment group.
- Terrisporobacter mayombei decreased significantly (p = 3 × 10⁻⁴) in the treatment group.
- Thymoquinone and its metabolites were qualitatively detected in urine samples from the treatment group.
Why it matters
Understanding how dietary supplements like NSSO can influence gut microbiome composition may have implications for improving outcomes in gastrointestinal surgery. This study provides foundational data for future research in this area.