Thymoquinone

Thymoquinone is present in higher concentrations than any other compound in black seed oil. A published study found black seed to be a significant inhibitor of solid tumors in mice. Thymoquinone induces apoptosis — programmed cell death — specifically in cancer cells. Thymoquinone is responsible for the majority of black seed oil's therapeutic effects. Thymoquinone molecules are small enough to be transported through skin by DMSO. Thymoquinone-induced apoptosis does not harm normal, healthy cells. Thymoquinone is the key active phytonutrient in black seed. Thymoquinone is the primary bioactive molecule in black seed oil.