A review of Nigella sativa plant-based therapy in dermatology.

Nigella sativa (N. sativa) is a widely used medicinal herb with a rich cultural and religious history in Unani, Ayurveda, Chinese, and Arabic medicine. N. sativa contains many natural bioactive agents including alkaloids, saponins, alpha-hederin, and thymoquinone that contribute to its broad range of benefits as a diuretic, bronchodilator, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, and analgesic. In addition, N. sativa possesses antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antineoplastic effects, making it an interesting potential therapy for the treatment of dermatological conditions. This article reviews the current literature surrounding the pharmacological effects of N. sativa for the treatment of acne vulgaris, melanoma, vitiligo, atopic dermatitis, plaque psoriasis, and wound healing.