Black seed is typically taken in the form of an oil or a ground powder, taken orally at a dosage of 1 to 3 grams daily. For people with type 2 diabetes, preliminary research suggests that 2 grams daily may be the sweet spot for achieving beneficial effects on lipids and blood glucose.^[1]

For topical use, most research has used preparations containing 10% to 20% black seed applied twice daily.

While black seed is available in various forms (seed oil, water extract, or whole ground seed), water extracts seem to be less effective, likely because thymoquinone (the main active compound in black seed) is fat-soluble. The whole ground seed and oil appear similarly effective, although more research comparing the two is needed.^[2][3]

It’s important to keep in mind that the chemical composition of black seed can vary greatly depending on how it is grown, harvested, and processed. This could lead to inconsistent effects of black seed with seemingly equivalent doses.^[4]

Because of the high content of polyunsaturated fatty acids in black seed, storing the supplement in the fridge in a dark, sealed container may help prevent oxidation.^[5]