Studies suggest that
this oil may offer many health and cosmetic benefits, such as aiding weight
loss, improving skin conditions, and even
treating cancer and diabetes.
In this article, we
look at the science behind black seed oil’s benefits and explore the possible
side effects and risks.
Black seeds are also
known as black caraway, black cumin, kalonji, and black onion seeds.
They come from Nigella
sativa, a small plant with
pale purple, blue, or white flowers that grows in Eastern Europe, Western Asia,
and the Middle East.
People have used the tiny black seeds of the fruits of N.
sativa as a natural
remedy for thousands of years. The seeds can also flavor curries, pickles, and
bread in a similar way to cumin or oregano.
The black seed oil
contains thymoquinone, which is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory
compound that may also have tumor-reducing properties.
People can ingest
black seed oil in the form of capsules or apply it topically to benefit the
skin. It is also possible to add the oil to massage oils, shampoos, homemade
skin-care products, and fragrances.
High-quality black
seed oil is also suitable for use in cooking, baking, and beverages.
Benefits of black seed oil
Scientists with a
range of specialties have researched the possible benefits of black seed oil.
However, it is
important to note that many studies to date have used cells or animals as
models, and there is limited research available on the effects of black seed
oil in humans.
Benefits for weight loss
Research has
shown that black seed supplementation can help lower people’s body mass index
(BMI). The study participants did not report any severe side effects from
taking this supplement.
A systematic review published in the Journal
of Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders in 2013 found that black seed oil could be effective in
tackling obesity.
Benefits for the skin
Black seed oil may be
beneficial for people with the following skin conditions:
·
Eczema: According to a
small-scale 2013 study comparing the therapeutic benefits of N. sativa with those of prescription medications,
black seed oil can reduce the severity of hand eczema.
·
Acne: Research suggests
that the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects of black seed oil can
improve acne. In one study, 58 percent of participants rated their
response to this treatment as good, while 35 percent felt their results were
moderate.
·
Psoriasis: A 2012
study on mice suggests that the oil may also have antipsoriatic benefits.
Black seed oil may
also hydrate hair, soften skin, and act as a moisturizer, although there is a
lack of scientific evidence to confirm these benefits.
Benefits for health conditions
Black seed oil may
also be beneficial for some health conditions, including the following:
Cancer
Recent studies have
shown that the thymoquinone in black seed oil can influence programmed cell
death, or apoptosis, in several types of cancer cell. These include brain
cancer, leukemia, and breast cancer cells.
However, much of the
research on the effects of black seed oil on cancer uses cells rather than live
humans, so researchers do not yet know how effective the oil may be to treat
people with cancer.
Liver and kidney function
According to
a 2013 study on rats, black seed oil may reduce liver and kidney
disease complications and improve the organ structures. Researchers do not know
if these effects would also occur in humans.
Diabetes
According to an article in the Journal
of Endocrinology & Metabolism, black seed oil may have antidiabetic properties and improve blood
sugar levels. Again, this study used animal models, so more research is
necessary to confirm the effectiveness of the oil in humans.
Infertility
A placebo-controlled
clinical trial on men with abnormal sperm and infertility has
found that black seed oil can improve sperm movement and increase sperm count
and semen volume.
Side effects and risks
People should not use black seed oil in place of medication.
Although black seed
oil seems to offer certain health benefits, this supplement does not replace medication.
People taking
medication should talk to their doctor before using herbal supplements, such as
black seed oil.
The doctor can advise
on possible interactions with the medication and also discuss the potential
benefits and side effects of the supplement. It is essential never to stop
taking medication without a doctor’s advice.
As with any
supplement, pregnant or breastfeeding women should talk to their doctor to see
if black seed oil is right for them before using it.
With topical use,
black seed oil can cause an allergic rash in some people. Therefore, it is
vital to test it on a small patch of skin first to ensure that it does not
trigger a reaction.
People must also take
care to keep the oil away from the eyes, nostrils, and other sensitive body
parts.
Swallowing black seed
oil can sometimes lead to digestive problems, such as stomach
upset, constipation, and vomiting.
To get the safest and
most beneficial black seed oil, always choose high-quality, organic black seed
oil that is 100-percent pure, therapeutic grade, and USDA certified.
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