Benefits of Black Seed Oil for the Entire Body (Head to Toe)

 

One thing is evident from the hundreds of peer-reviewed scientific publications on the advantages of black seed oil: it may aid the body in resolving a variety of health problems. It makes sense that traditional medicine has been using this health-promoting oil for thousands of years.

In fact, current study shows that black seed oil's anti-inflammatory and antibacterial qualities may help with conditions like acne, hair loss, and asthma. It might even encourage weight loss.

The benefits of black seed oil and black seed are encouraging, but further human studies are needed to validate many of these effects.

Black seed oil: what is it?

The seeds of the black cumin (Nigella sativa) plant, also known as nigella seeds, which is a member of the ranunculus family (Ranunculaceae), are used to make black seed oil. The black cumin plant is indigenous to Africa, the Mediterranean, and southwestern Asia.

It has been cultivated for generations because of its tasty and fragrant seeds, which can be used as a spice in food or as a herbal remedy.

Another name for this oil is black cumin seed oil. Be cautious since black seed is not the same as black pepper, black sesame, black cohosh, or real cumin (Cuminum cyminum).

Quite possibly, the most promising research has been done connecting Nigella sativa to multidrug-resistant bacteria.

Researchers at Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College in India measured the effectiveness of black seed oil against specific superbugs and compared it to a number of medications. "The oil of black cumin inhibited 97 of the 144 strains tested, the majority of which were resistant to several antibiotics," the study states.

Additionally, nigella seeds demonstrated antibacterial efficacy against numerous harmful bacterial types in a 2022 investigation.

The presence of three essential natural phytonutrients is crucial to comprehending the health advantages of black seed oils:

• thymoquinone (TQ)
• thymohydroquinone (THQ)
• thymol

What advantages does black seed oil

offer?

1. Fights diabetes

Numerous clinical and animal research have demonstrated the anti-diabetic efficacy of black seeds and their primary bioactive element, thymoquinone, according to a 2021 medical review. Nigella sativa may be a useful adjuvant therapy in addition to anti-diabetic medications, which occasionally have negative side effects in certain people, the study concluded.

A similar result was reached by a medical evaluation in 2022. Blood sugar levels, both while fasting and after meals, have been demonstrated to be stabilized by black seed oil. Along with lowering insulin resistance, it also assisted in raising insulin production.

2. Promotes weight loss

Black cumin seed oil was found to be an effective natural weight loss tool in a study published in the Journal of Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders that systematically reviewed the literature for plants with anti-obesity characteristics.

For eight weeks, 45 overweight or obese women participated in a randomized clinical experiment in which they were given 2,000 milligrams of black seed oil daily. Reduced hunger, a lower body mass index (BMI), weight loss, body fat loss, and a reduction in waist circumference were among the outcomes.

Black seed supplements have also been shown to help reduce body weight, according to a 2018 systematic review and meta-analysis of 11 placebo-controlled clinical trials.

It has been demonstrated that supplements reduce waist circumference and BMI. It's also crucial to remember that none of the research that examined black seed supplementation mentioned any severe adverse effects.

Further long-term research is required to determine whether black seed oil can help with weight loss. Before deciding to take this oil as a supplement, speak with your doctor.

3. Could make skin better

Black seed oil is increasingly being used externally as a natural treatment for a number of ailments, including eczema and acne. Is it worth anything?

Black seed oil's antibacterial and anti-inflammatory qualities do seem to aid in the reduction of acne.

According to a 2020 study, applying a topical gel containing black seed extract twice daily for two months helped to reduce acne severity by 80%. Researchers specifically observed a decrease in acne lesions when compared to the control group.

Nigella saliva was shown to be just as successful in enhancing quality of life and lessening the intensity of hand eczema as the skin lotion Betamethasone in a trial carried out by Iranian experts.

Studies have shown that thymoquinone, a major component of black seed oil, may also promote tissue growth and aid in wound healing.

4. May improve hair growth and health

Black seed oil is a natural skin care product that may also help hair. It contains the antihistamine nigellone, which may aid with hair loss caused by alopecia areata or androgenic alopecia.

Its antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory qualities can also benefit the general health of the scalp, preventing dryness and dandruff while simultaneously enhancing hair health.

According to a 2020 study, individuals experiencing hair loss saw an increase in hair density and thickness after using a lotion made from black seed oil every day for three months. During the trial, 90 participants utilized various seed oils to treat hair loss; black seed oil was thought to be the most successful.

5. Could lessen asthma and enhance lung health

Four randomized, controlled trials on black seed supplements for asthma treatment were the subject of a 2021 meta-analysis. The participants with asthma seemed to benefit from the supplements' anti-inflammatory properties.

In a minor research conducted in 2020, participants with asthma were exposed to cooked black seed extract. It improved lung function and respiratory rate, two indicators of asthma, and had a bronchodilatory impact.

Before using black seed oil for asthma or any other illness, speak with your healthcare provider.

6. Could aid in the treatment of infections

Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) may be repelled by black seed oil. Black seed oil may help slow down or stop MRSA from spreading out of control. Pakistani scientists found that all of the MRSA strains they tested were responsive to N. sativa.

The antifungal qualities of certain compounds in black seed oil have also been investigated. Researchers evaluated thymol, TQ, and THQ against 30 human pathogens for a study published in the Egyptian Journal of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology. They found that for the 30 pathogens they tested, every drug exhibited 100% suppression.

The most effective antifungal agent against all tested yeasts and dermatophytes was thymoquinone, which was followed by thymol and thymohydroquinone. The most effective antifungal against molds was thymol, which was followed by TQ and THQ.

8. Could increase the fertility of men

Black seed oil was tested for its potential to aid infertile male participants with defective sperm in a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical experiment. For two months, the placebo group received the same quantity of liquid paraffin twice a day, whereas the control group took 2.5 milliliters of black seed oil orally.

According to the findings, the black seed oil group's sperm count, motility, and semen volume all improved.

The impact of black seeds on male infertility was also examined in a 2015 systematic review that was published in the Journal of Herbal Medicine. After reviewing research conducted between 2000 and 2014, the researchers came to the general conclusion that black seed can "positively influence sperm parameters, semen, Leydig cells, reproductive organs and sexual hormones."

9. Could aid with blood pressure and cholesterol balance

An older study using human participants with moderate hypertension was randomized, double-blind, and placebo-controlled. A group that took 100 milligrams of black seed twice daily, a group that took 200 milligrams twice daily, and a placebo group were all included.

Researchers discovered that after taking the black seed supplement for eight weeks, the subjects' systolic and diastolic blood pressure dropped "in a dose-dependent manner." The supplement containing black seed extract also resulted in a "significant decline" in LDL and total cholesterol.

Daily supplementation with Nigella sativa oil resulted in significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared with placebo after eight weeks in adults, according to a more recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial published in Phytotherapy Research. This suggests that the oil may have an antihypertensive effect.

Furthermore, individuals with type 2 diabetes who took Nigella sativa oil capsules demonstrated notable drops in total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol as well as systolic and diastolic blood pressure when compared to those who took a placebo in a more recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial. This suggests potential cardiovascular advantages.

10. Could aid in the fight against cancer

Using an animal model study, Croatian researchers assessed the anti-tumor efficacy of thymoquinone and thymohydroquinone and found that these two phytochemicals, which are present in black seed oil, reduced tumor cells by 52%.

The most prevalent bioactive ingredient in black seed oil, thymoquinone, was shown in vitro to aid in the induction of apoptosis, or programmed cell death, in leukemia, breast cancer, and brain tumor cells.

According to a 2014 study, black seed oil may help prevent cancer by controlling molecular processes. Before any judgments can be made, a great deal more investigation is required.

11. Helpful for vitiligo

The potential use of black seed oil in the treatment of vitiligo, a disorder marked by melanocyte dysfunction-induced skin pigmentation loss, is another of the newly discovered advantages of this oil. When applied topically, black seed oil may promote repigmentation by promoting the distribution of melanin in the skin, according to research.

Topical black seed oil users have shown quantifiable improvements in pigmentation as compared to baseline in modest clinical trials. Its antioxidant properties, according to researchers, may shield melanocytes from oxidative stress, which is thought to be a factor in the development of vitiligo.

For individuals looking for complementary methods, black seed oil may provide beneficial skin health advantages even though it is not a cure.

12. Reduces inflammation

The potential of black seed oil to lessen inflammation is one of its best-studied advantages. Heart disease, metabolic syndrome, autoimmune diseases, and joint degradation are all associated with chronic inflammation.

Thymoquinone, the primary active compound in black seed oil, has been shown in human and laboratory research to modulate inflammatory markers, such as C-reactive protein, tumor necrosis factor-alpha and interleukins. Black seed oil may improve cardiovascular health, metabolic function, and general immunological balance by assisting in the regulation of the body's inflammatory response.

One of the main processes behind many of the oil's other health advantages is thought to be its anti-inflammatory properties.

13. Preserves renal health

Additionally, black seed oil may help prevent oxidative damage and promote renal function. Over time, filtration may be hampered by the kidneys' heightened susceptibility to inflammation and toxin-related stress.

Black seed oil supplementation may enhance kidney function indicators, lower oxidative stress, and promote better creatinine and urea levels in some individuals, according to human and clinical study. It is thought that its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties help protect kidney tissue from cellular harm.

When used properly, black seed oil may offer supplemental support for kidney illness, but it should never take the place of medical treatment.

14. Eases the symptoms of seasonal allergies

Black seed oil may be useful if you're searching for natural support during allergy season. Supplementing with black seed oil has been shown in several trials to lessen the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, such as runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, and itching.

This advantage, according to researchers, is connected to black seed oil's capacity to regulate immune response and lessen inflammation brought on by histamine.

Taking standardized black seed oil (250 mg with piperine twice daily) for 15 days significantly decreased the frequency and severity of seasonal allergic rhinitis symptoms (such as sneezing, nasal congestion, itching, and ocular symptoms) when compared to a placebo, according to a 2024 randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial in adults. The improvements in overall symptom scores and patient-reported change were also greater. This study showed that by reducing nasal and ocular symptoms linked to allergic reactions, black seed oil may help control common seasonal allergy symptoms.

Black seed oil is a good supplemental alternative for people looking for more natural seasonal allergy relief because of these findings.

15. Could lessen the symptoms of arthritis

Black seed oil may help people with arthritis because it reduces inflammation. Rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis both cause pain, stiffness, and inflammation in the joints.

According to clinical research, taking supplements of black seed oil may help certain people, especially those with inflammatory arthritis, with morning stiffness and joint swelling. Its antioxidant components may encourage a more balanced immune response while shielding joint tissue from oxidative damage.

Black seed oil may be used as a supportive strategy for joint comfort and mobility, but it is not a stand-alone treatment.

16. Could aid with psoriasis treatment

The ability of black seed oil to lessen the symptoms of psoriasis is among its most promising advantages. Psoriasis is a long-term autoimmune skin disorder characterized by redness, scaling, and inflammation.

Thymoquinone, a bioactive substance with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities, is found in black seed oil, which may help soothe the immune system that triggers flare-ups of psoriasis.

Topical black seed oil may lessen scaling, itching, and lesion intensity in individuals with mild to moderate psoriasis, according to preliminary research. Additionally, its antibacterial activity might help shield damaged skin from recurrent infections.

For example, a randomized clinical trial assessed the safety and effectiveness of Nigella sativa in patients with mild to moderate palmoplantar psoriasis and plaque. During the course of the treatment period, participants were randomized to receive oral Nigella sativa capsules (500 mg three times a day), a 10 percent Nigella sativa ointment, or a combination of both. The combined ointment plus oral group demonstrated the highest percentage of complete and excellent responses as well as decreased recurrence rates. The results demonstrated that both topical and oral treatment with Nigella sativa generated clinical improvements in psoriatic lesions.

The findings imply that black seed's anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities may contribute to its potential anti-psoriatic benefits.

Early results suggest that black seed oil may be a supplemental natural option for promoting the health of the skin barrier and lowering inflammatory skin reactions, but more extensive studies are required.

17. Facilitates digestion

When added to standard therapy, daily supplementation with a honey-based Nigella sativa oil formulation for eight weeks significantly reduced symptoms of functional dyspepsia, including indigestion and stomach discomfort, when compared to a placebo, according to a double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled study. The findings demonstrate the effectiveness of black seed oil in reducing upper gastrointestinal symptoms in adults.

Nigella sativa seeds have been shown in another clinical pilot study to improve eradication rates, quality of life, and dietary intake when added to antibiotic therapy in Helicobacter pylori-infected patients. This suggests that Nigella sativa seeds may have a digestive benefit due to their antimicrobial and supportive effects on stomach health in infected individuals.

Supplements and how to use

Black seed oil that is 100% pure, therapeutic-grade, and USDA organic certified is always the best choice.

Additionally, some businesses state that their black seed oil is cold-pressed, which generally indicates that heat from an outside source is not used to extract the oil from Nigella sativa seeds. It is sometimes said that cold-pressed oils have a stronger flavor.

Black seed oil capsules are another option if you prefer not to use liquid supplements.

Black seed oil can be used in the following ways:

• When applying black cumin oil topically, always dilute it with a few teaspoons of a carrier oil, such as almond or coconut oil.

• Adding it to homemade massage oils and lotions is simple. Just mix one drop with one tablespoon of a carrier oil for a warming massage.
• A few drops of oil can be added to shampoo and conditioner to improve the health of your hair and scalp.

• If you enjoy making homemade fragrances with oils, it’s good to know that this oil has a peppery scent and works well as a base note.

• A premium (100 percent pure, therapeutic-grade, and USDA organic) black seed oil has a fiery flavor that makes it suitable for use in soups, stews, and meat main dishes. It can also be added to smoothies and chai tea lattes.

The right dosage of black seed oil can differ depending on the person's health. There isn't a standard dosage as of now.

Risks and side effects

When ingested or administered topically, black seed might result in an allergic reaction. It is advisable to conduct a patch test prior to using black cumin oil topically to your skin and hair to ensure that you won't have any adverse reactions.

Black seed oil should never be applied to your eyes or mucous membranes.

Constipation, nausea, and upset stomach are possible side effects of taking black seed oil internally. It might make some people more susceptible to seizures.

If you are pregnant, nursing, taking medication, or have a medical condition (particularly diabetes, low blood pressure, or a bleeding disease), see your healthcare provider before consuming black seed oil. It is advised that you cease consuming black seed oil at least two weeks before your planned surgery.

Black seed oil should be kept out of children's reach and away from heat and light, just like any other oil.

Frequently asked questions

Black seed oil: what is it?

The tiny black seeds of the flowering plant Nigella sativa, which is indigenous to Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Southwest Asia, are used to make black seed oil. It has been a part of traditional healing practices for ages and is also referred to as kalonji oil or black cumin seed oil. Black seed oil is now prized for its active ingredient, thymoquinone, which is thought to be responsible for many of its health-promoting qualities.

When individuals look for benefits of black seed oil, they usually mean its possible impacts on inflammation, metabolic function, skin support, immune health, and digestive balance.

What are the main advantages of black seed oil?

The following are the most often mentioned advantages of black seed oil:

• encouraging a normal inflammatory response
• fostering the equilibrium of the immunological system
• assisting in keeping blood sugar levels within a healthy range
• promoting heart health, which includes maintaining normal blood pressure and healthy cholesterol levels.
• Supporting gut health and comfort during digestion
• promoting skin that is clear and healthy-looking

 
Thymoquinone and other antioxidant chemicals present in black seed oil are largely responsible for these advantages, according to study, and may aid in shielding cells from oxidative stress.

Can inflammation be reduced by using black seed oil?

The capacity of black sesame oil to promote a healthy inflammatory response is among its most extensively studied advantages. In preclinical and human studies, compounds found in black seed oil, particularly thymoquinone, have shown anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Black seed oil may improve joint comfort, lung health, and general immunological resilience by reducing oxidative stress and inflammatory pathways.

Does black seed oil support a healthy immune system?

Indeed, one of the most common uses for black seed oil is immunological support. Instead of only "stimulating" immunological responses, research indicates that black seed oil may help manage them. People who want to promote general immune function as part of a healthy lifestyle or who are experiencing seasonal immunological problems may find this balancing effect particularly beneficial.

Can blood sugar levels be regulated using black seed oil?

Black seed oil may maintain healthy blood sugar levels that are already within the normal range, according to a number of human research. It could help lower indicators linked to metabolic stress and increase insulin sensitivity. The benefits of black seed oil are therefore frequently mentioned in relation to general endocrine support and metabolic balance.

Does heart health benefit from black seed oil?

By keeping healthy cholesterol and triglyceride levels already within the usual range, black seed oil may promote cardiovascular health. Additionally, some research indicates that it might help maintain normal blood pressure levels. These heart-supporting benefits are thought to be influenced by its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant qualities.

Is black seed oil beneficial for hair and skin?

Indeed, black seed oil is frequently applied topically and taken internally to nourish the skin and hair. Its antibacterial and antioxidant qualities could enhance scalp health and encourage skin that looks cleaner.

Black seed oil may help relieve dry or irritated skin when applied topically. Over time, its internal nutritional and antioxidant profile may help to improve the appearance of healthy skin.

How is black seed oil taken?

Usually, black seed oil is consumed as a liquid or in capsule form. Depending on the substance and intended use, common supplementary dosages vary from 500 mg to 2,000 mg per day.

Additionally, it can be applied topically to support the scalp and skin. Always abide by the directions on product labels, and if you use medication or have a medical condition, speak with a licensed healthcare provider.

Does using black seed oil have any negative effects?

When administered in the right amounts, black seed oil is usually well tolerated. Some people may have allergic reactions, nausea, or moderate digestive problems. Before using black seed oil, people on drugs for blood pressure and blood sugar should speak with their doctor because it may affect these parameters.

How long before the benefits of black seed oil become apparent?

Depending on the person and the purpose of use, different timelines apply. The benefits of black seed oil for the skin and metabolism may take longer to manifest, although some people report immunological or digestive assistance in a matter of weeks. The speed at which benefits can be observed depends on a number of factors, including consistency, product quality, and general lifestyle choices.

When purchasing black seed oil, what should you check for?

To get the most out of black seed oil, seek for:

• Oil that is cold-pressed
• Non-GMO or organic source
• Third-party purity testing
• Bottles of dark glass (to prevent oxidation)

A strong, slightly bitter flavor is indicative of high-quality black seed oil's active ingredients.

What would happen if I took black seed oil on a daily basis?

Daily consumption of black seed oil may result in more regular exposure to its active ingredients, especially thymoquinone. Some users claim that consistent use improves their immune system, digestion, skin clarity, and general metabolic markers like blood sugar or cholesterol levels that are already within normal limits.

On the other hand, proper dosage should be combined with consistency. When taken in the authorized dosages, daily use is usually regarded as safe for the majority of healthy adults; however, it's advisable to keep an eye on how your body reacts and consult a healthcare professional if you have any underlying medical concerns.

Can abdominal fat be reduced with black seed oil?

When paired with a nutritious diet and regular exercise, black seed oil may help with weight management, according to some research. In human research, some populations have shown slight decreases in body weight, waist circumference, and body mass index.

These effects could be related to greater metabolic function, less inflammation, and increased insulin sensitivity, all of which can affect the storage of fat in the abdomen. Black seed oil may promote general metabolic health as part of an all-encompassing lifestyle approach, even though it is not a "belly fat cure."

For whom is black seed oil inappropriate?

Even though black seed oil is usually well tolerated, certain people should exercise caution or stay away from it unless a healthcare provider is watching. This comprises:

Women who are nursing or pregnant
People who take blood pressure or blood sugar drugs
Individuals slated for surgery (because of possible impacts on blood sugar and coagulation)
All individuals who have a history of allergies to plants in the Ranunculaceae family

Combining black seed oil with drugs for blood pressure and blood sugar may raise the chance of blood pressure and blood sugar levels falling too low because black seed oil may lower these parameters.

Final thoughts

• For thousands of years, traditional medicine has utilized black seed oil, also known as black cumin oil, which is derived from the black cumin (Nigella sativa) plant.

• Black seed oil may help with diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and obesity, among other health issues. Black seed oil is also well-liked for healthy skin and hair.

• To obtain the safest and most advantageous kind of black seed oil or black cumin oil, always purchase 100% pure, therapeutic-grade, USDA organic certified oil.