A Cytotoxicity Assessment of Nigella sativa Oil by using the Allium cepa Test

Abstract

Nigella sativa oil, commonly known as black seed oil, is renowned for its wide range of medicinal properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. However, its potential cytotoxic and genotoxic effects have not been extensively studied. The Allium cepa test, employing onion bulbs, is a widely recognized bioassay used to evaluate the cytotoxicity and genotoxicity of various substances through parameters such as root length, root growth rate, mitotic index, and chromosomal aberrations. This study investigates the impact of Nigella sativa oil on Allium cepa, providing insights into its biological activity and potential health risks.