International Journal of Health Engineering and Technology · Sep 17, 2026
The Effect Of Black Cumin Capsules On LDL Levels In Elderly Patients With Hypercholesterolemia At The Pegajahan Community Health Center
By Amanda S, Rahmat SM
Hypercholesterolemia is characterized by increased levels of LDL, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and decreased levels of HDL, caused by various variables, one of which is age. With age, a person's ability to bind to the LDL receptor decreases. This results in an increase in the amount of LDL present in the blood which in turn contributes to the blockage of blood vessels. Black cumin, also known as Nigella sativa, is a frequently used type of herbal medicine. By inhibiting the activity of HMG-CoA reductase enzyme and increasing the expression of LDL receptor mRNA, black cumin is an herbal medicine that has the potential to reduce LDL cholesterol levels. This study aims to determine the effect of black cumin (Nigella sativa) capsule administration on LDL levels in elderly individuals with hypercholesterolemia. This study was conducted using a quasi-experimental design with a non-equivalent control group, involving pre-test and post-test. The research subjects were 20 individuals, divided into two groups: the experimental group, consisting of 10 people, who were given 500 mg black cumin capsules (4 capsules per day for 30 days) and the control group, consisting of 10 people, who were given a placebo (4 capsules per day for 30 days). Data analysis was performed using the t-test. Data analysis using the t-test showed that the pre-test and post-test results of the black cumin capsule administration had a p-value of <0.001. Black cumin capsules have an effect on lowering LDL levels in elderly individuals with hypercholesterolemia.