Thymoquinone from Black Cumin Seed Oil Promotes Stem Cell Migration
by Nils Osmar – Updated November 30, 2022 – Medical Disclaimer
Stem/progenitor cells play a key role in repairing and maintaining our tissues. When we’re injured, they are able to migrate to the site of the injury, differentiate into a range of cell types, and secrete chemokines, cytokines, and growth factors that help in tissue regeneration.
Unfortunately, stem cells lose their ability to migrate and differentiate as we age. According to a 2021 study, “As stem cells age, their renewal ability declines and their capacity to maintain organ homeostasis and regeneration is impaired.” For this reason, anti-aging researchers are on the alert for compounds which support stem cell migration and differentiation. (See study: Why stem/progenitor cells lose their regenerative potential)
Nigella Sativa Seeds
According to this study, Thymoquinone, a bioactive compound found in the black seeds of the Nigella sativa plant has been in animal studies, both in vivo and in vitro, to promote mesenchymal stem cells migration.
Thymoquinone is the key active ingredient in the seeds (and the oil derived from them). It’s nontoxic and has been explored as a possible treatment for human diseases including diabetes and cancer. It also reportedly reduces the symptoms of arthritis, asthma, inflammation and gastrointestinal disorders.
Thymoquinone is sold as an oil and in oil-filled capsules. Oils from different companies vary in how much thymoquinone they contain.
Anti-Aging Effects
According to a study called Anti-Aging Effect of Nigella Sativa Fixed Oil on D-Galactose-Induced Aging in Mice, “Through its antioxidant and anti-apoptosis properties, black seed oil exhibited an anti-aging effect in a model of aging induced with D-galactose.” It also helps restore glutathione levels in the brain.
What I’m Doing
I’m doing several things hoping to support the health and rejuvenative capabilities of my stem cells. One is fasting. Another is eating foods which may have beneficial anti-aging effects.(We have to eat something; we may as well choose foods that may have an anti-aging effect.
I add a teaspoon of black cumin seeds to meals sometimes, and add the oil to meat dishes a few minutes before the end of cooking.
Not medical advice
This post is not intended as, and should not be taken as, medical advice. I’m not advising that people follow any particular regimen, eat any particular diet or take any particular supplements, just sharing information and reporting on what I’m doing. All supplements can have side effects; I would encourage people to research both possible benefits and side effects before starting on any supplementation regimen. See full Medical Disclaimer
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