Nigella sativa Extracts and Gastric Cancer: A Comprehensive Review

Nigella sativa, commonly known as black seed or black cumin, has been extensively studied for its potential therapeutic applications, particularly its anti-cancer properties. In recent years, N. sativa extracts, especially thymoquinone (TQ), have shown promising effects on inhibiting cancer cell proliferation and inducing apoptosis, positioning them as potential agents for cancer treatment. Gastric cancer, a major global health challenge with limited treatment options for advanced cases, underscores the need for innovative therapeutic strategies. This review examines current research on the anti-cancer potential of N. sativa, focusing on its chemopreventive, pro-apoptotic, and anti-proliferative effects on gastric cancer cells, as well as its modulation of critical pathways, such as nuclear factor kappa B, tumor protein p۵۳, and phosphoinositide ۳-kinase/protein kinase B/mammalian target of rapamycin. Key studies have also indicated potential interactions between TQ and non-coding RNAs, such as microRNAs, suggesting an additional layer of regulatory influence. Clinical trials, though limited, provide early insight into N. sativa’s safety profile and its integration with conventional therapies. This review presents a critical analysis of these findings and emphasizes the need for standardized extracts, dosage consistency, and further clinical trials to clarify N. sativa’s therapeutic role in gastric cancer.