Is black cumin the next big breakthrough in fighting obesity?
A team of researchers says this is how the spice helps fight obesity and safeguard heart health
A team of researchers has discovered that a widely used spice may play a vital role in combating obesity and safeguarding heart health.
A new study published in the Journal of Food Science and Nutrition found that black cumin seed powder can help support healthy weight management while improving key markers of cardiovascular health.
Known for adding a warm, earthy flavor to curries, breads, rice dishes, soups, and salads, black cumin has long been a staple in kitchens — and now science is revealing its deeper health benefits.
In a clinical trial conducted by Osaka Metropolitan University in Japan, 42 adults with elevated cholesterol levels consumed 5 grams of black cumin seed powder daily for eight weeks.
The results were striking: triglycerides, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, and total cholesterol dropped significantly, while HDL (“good”) cholesterol rose — changes that reduce the risk of heart disease and early mortality.
Laboratory experiments further showed that black cumin seed extract slows the development and growth of fat cells, offering a promising tool in the fight against obesity.
“This study strongly suggests that black cumin seeds can serve as a valuable functional food for preventing obesity and lifestyle-related diseases,” said Professor Akiko Kojima Yuasa.
Black cumin has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, and metabolism-enhancing properties. Researchers now plan to explore its potential effects on insulin resistance in diabetes patients and its influence on inflammation markers.
