Clinical and In vitro Data Shed New Light on the Therapeutic Advantages of Black Seeds (Nigella sativa) for the Treatment of Hepatitis C and Hepatitis B Viral Infections

Background: Hepatitis C Virus (HCV) and Hepatitis B Virus (HBV) can cause acute and chronic viral infections. Due to their higher costs, potential side effects and drug interactions, and associated risks, some patients with HCV and HBV infections may not be able to afford conventional antiviral medications. Objective: The goal of this review paper is to highlight the advantages of Nigella sativa, or black seeds, in the treatment of patients with HCV and HBV infections. Methods: Medline/Pubmed/PMC, Scopus, Web of Science, Google Scholar, Science Direct, Ebsco, Embase, and reference lists were searched to locate the research studies that assessed the effects of different black seed (N. sativa) preparations on the telltale signs and symptoms of HCV and HBV infections. Results: Numerous preclinical and clinical investigations have suggested that black seeds (N. sativa) may be effective against HCV and HBV infections. Furthermore, N. sativa, or black seeds, have demonstrated a range of pleiotropic effects, such as antiviral activity against multiple other viruses and anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties that can lessen the symptoms and indicators of HCV and HBV infections. Conclusion: Patients with HCV and HBV infections may benefit from using black seeds (N. sativa) as an adjuvant therapy in addition to conventional therapy. Additional randomized controlled clinical trials would confirm the safety and effectiveness of Nigella sativa (black seeds) in treating HCV and HBV infections.