Cellulite: Can nigella seed oil help prevent and target cellulite?

The cellulite corresponds to an alteration in the structure of cutaneous and subcutaneous tissue, visually manifested by the appearance of dimples, most frequently on the thighs, buttocks, or abdomen. Contrary to popular belief, it does not result solely from excess fat mass, but from a set of mechanisms involving adipose tissue, microcirculation, and the extracellular matrix. Classically, three types of cellulite: the adipose cellulite, linked to an increase in adipocyte volume, the edematous cellulite, associated with water retention and impaired lymphatic circulation, and the fibrous cellulite, which is more entrenched and often more difficult to reduce, characterized by fibrotic connective tissue. These different types can coexist and explain the variety in cellulite’s appearance and progression.

To date, scientific evidence linking black seed oil to anti-cellulite activity is limited.

Nonetheless, some known mechanisms of black cumin seed oil may elicit a theoretical interest, notably in adipose cellulite. This form of cellulite is indeed associated with adipocyte hypertrophy, an oxidative stress local and low-grade inflammatory phenomena. The antioxidant properties of black cumin seed oil may help limit lipid oxidation and preserve a more balanced tissue environment, while its anti-inflammatory compounds, such as the thymoquinone, could theoretically contribute to modulating certain inflammatory pathways involved in adipose tissue expansion. These effects, however, remain indirect and are more characteristic of a preventive approach than of targeted action on established cellulite dimples.

Some experimental data provide food for thought. One study focused on the anti-adipogenic and hypolipidemic effects of Nigella sativa in a metabolic context. In vitro, the authors treated 3T3-L1 preadipocytes with a methanolic extract of black cumin seeds, which resulted in a significant decrease in lipid accumulation without cytotoxicity, along with downregulation of adipogenic factors such as PPARγ and C/EBP proteins. These findings suggest a capacity of nigella to inhibit adipocyte differentiation, a mechanism potentially relevant in the context of adipose cellulite.

The study was supplemented by a controlled human trial in which 42 participants, divided into two groups, consumed 5 g of black seed powder daily for 8 weeks or a placebo. The results showed a blood lipid profile improvement, with reductions in triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and total cholesterol, as well as an increase in HDL cholesterol, often referred to as “good cholesterol.” These data suggest a metabolic benefit of Nigella sativa. However, this study involves oral intake rather than topical application, and it does not evaluate skin appearance or the presence of cellulite.

Based on current knowledge, these data therefore do not allow us to conclude that Nigella sativa (black seed) oil is effective for preventing or targeting cellulite.

At best, its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties and its indirect connection to adipogenic mechanisms could suggest potential benefits in the case of adipose cellulite, but this has not yet been demonstrated. Conversely, no data support any link between black seed oil and an effect on edematous or fibrous cellulite.

• RAWLINGS A. Cellulite and its treatment. International Journal of Cosmetic Science (2006).

• GABBIANELLI R. & al. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of Nigella sativa oil in human pre-adipocytes. Antioxidants (2019).

• KAMINER M. S. & al. Cellulite. Plastic Surgery Key (2020).

• LISOWSKA K. A. & al. The immunomodulatory effect of Nigella sativa. Antioxidants (2023).

• KOJIMA-YUASA A. & al. Black cumin seed (Nigella sativa) confers anti-adipogenic effects in 3T3-L1 cellular model and lipid-lowering properties in human subjects. Food, Science and Nutrition (2025).