The effects of nigella sativa on anthropometric and biochemical indices in postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome

Purpose This study aimed to compare the nigella sativa vs. placebo effect on anthropometric and biochemical indices in postmenopausal women with metabolic syndrome. Methods This randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial was conducted as a third-phase trial among 140 menopausal women within the age of 45-60 years old, who were suffering from metabolic syndrome and were assigned to receive 500 mg nigella sativa or placebo pill once daily. Anthropometric and biochemical parameters including body weight, waist circumference, serum lipid profile, fasting blood sugar, and HbA1C were measured at baseline and 8 weeks after administration the ingredient or placebo. Results In nigella sativa group, the serum markers such as low-density lipoprotein (115.1 +/- 17.6 vs. 127.7 +/- 12.6), triglyceride (158.3 +/- 14.0 vs. 166.7 +/- 16.0), total cholesterol (115.1 +/- 17.6 vs. 127.7 +/- 12.6), and fasting blood sugar (90.8 +/- 16.9 vs. 113.7 +/- 12.1) decreased significantly compared with the placebo (p < 0.001). Conclusion Administration of nigella sativa might be recommended for improving lipid profile and blood sugar in postmenopausal women with the metabolic syndrome.