From tradition to biomedical innovation : A bibliometric review of Nigella sativa research

Abstract

Nigella sativa, also referred to as "black cumin" or "black seed," is a medicinal plant that has been used therapeutically by humans for generations in many different cultures. In contemporary scientific research, experimental and clinical analyses reveal new and promising methods of assessing its use, and increasing attention has been given to the use of compounds from Nigella sativa. In this paper, we conduct an extensive bibliometric analysis of literature on Nigella sativa. An analysis of research trends, identification of primary contributors, and mapping of global partnerships can be done using bibliometric analysis, a quantitative survey of the scientific literature. The Scopus database returned 2472 papers published from 2000 to 2025 for this research. Data was processed using the R program Bibliometrix, and results were illustrated using Biblioshiny and VOSviewer. The number of publications on Nigella sativa has increased substantially over time, with a notable intensification within the past 10 years. These research topics, together with the prevailing and emerging related issues in the discipline, are presented, as well as the most active countries, organizations, writers, and journals. This study provides an improved mapping of the scientific field in Nigella sativa that will serve as an important tool for both researchers and policymakers to guide future work, promote partnerships, and bridge the scientific knowledge gap of this plant with multiple medicinal uses.