Roy Januardi Irawan, Heri Wahyudi, Mokhamad Nur Bawono, Ananda Perwira Bakti, Nanda Rimawati, Abdul Rohim Tualeka
Intense physical exercise can lead to oxidative stress and inflammation, which may impair muscle recovery and athletic performance. Nigella Sativa (N. sativa) possesses antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, however, limited studies have examined its effects on oxidative stress and inflammation biomarkers post-exercise. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial investigated the impact of N. sativa supplementation on malondialdehyde (MDA) and high-mobility group box 1 (HMGB1) levels following eccentric exercise. Forty-two recreationally active males (aged 18–21 years) were randomly assigned to either the N. sativa group (500 mg/day, n=21) or the placebo group (starch capsules, n=21) for 28 days. After supplementation, participants performed a standardized eccentric step-down protocol to induce muscle damage, and blood samples were collected at three time points: pre-exercise (T0), immediately post-exercise (T1), and 24 hours post-exercise (T2). MDA and HMGB1 levels significantly increased post-exercise (T1) in both groups (p<0.001); however, the N. sativa group exhibited significantly lower MDA and HMGB1 levels compared to the placebo group at T1 and T2 (p<0.001). These findings suggest that N. sativa supplementation may play a protective role against exercise-induced muscle damage by mitigating oxidative stress and inflammation. Further research is warranted to explore long-term effects and optimal dosages in athletic populations. © (2025), (Pamukkale University). All rights reserved.
Sports Science Department, Sports Science and Health Faculty, Universitas Negeri Surabaya, Surabaya, Indonesia; Department of Occupational Health and Safety, Faculty of Public Health, Airlangga University, Surabaya, Indonesia
