Nes Ziona, Israel—TriNutra has announced a new patent-pending study and review on thymoquinone, a phytochemical compound found in black seed (Nigella sativa) oil.

The study, published inFood Science & Nutrition Research,compared the antifungal and antibacterial properties of four different black seed oil compositions to better understand the ingredient’s range of antimicrobial activity. The compositions varied in percentage of thymoquinone (TQ) and free fatty acid content (FFA):
  • 3% TQ, 2% FFA;
  • 3% TQ, 10% FFA;
  • 0.5% TQ, 2% FFA;
  • 0.5% TQ, 10% FFA.
The researchers found that the low TQ, high FFA oil did not inhibit fungal growth, and that the low TQ, low FFA provided moderate support. The high TQ oils showed the most potent inhibition of two fungi, with the low FFA oil showing the best results. On the other hand, all four demonstrated efficacy against growth of the bacteriaS. aureus, suggesting that anti-bacterial activity is the result of another component altogether.

The researchers concluded, based on these results, that cold-pressed black seed oil standardized to 3% TQ with low FFA could be a safe option for regulating growth of microorganisms on the skin, and to potentially assist in balancing the skin and gut microbiome.

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“Detailed research into black seed oil compositions for skin health is still new and we are proud to be able to spearhead efforts to better understand how thymoquinone benefits different aspects of our skin,” said Dr. Liki von Oppen-Bezalel, Ph.D., TriNutra’s business development director and a contributor to the study. “Regulating growth ofS. aureus, C. albicansandM. furfurwith the unique composition of black seed oil with 3% thymoquinone and low free fatty acid will play an important and long-term role in maintaining skin homeostasis. No need to settle for less when ingredients like ThymoQuin and B’utyQuin already meet the qualifications needed for both ‘beauty from within’ and cosmetic applications.”