Black seed oil, also known as Nigella sativa, does wonders for the body. From potentially improving asthma to gut issues, black seed oil has been studied for centuries for its healing properties.
It contains a potent compound called thymoquinone (TQ), which works as an antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antiviral, and more. Through this extensive blog, you will learn about the current research and healing properties of black seed oil.
- Health benefits
- How it works for your body
- Where to find it
- Risks and possible side effects
- Dosage and timing
- Safety and efficacy
What are the 10 Potential Health Benefits of Black Seed Oil?
Black seed oil is also known as Nigella sativa, black cumin, black caraway, and Kolanji. It grows in parts of Asia and the Mediterranean.
Ancient Egyptians used it for many ailments, like skin rashes and gut problems. The Prophetic Hadith said it is the most remarkable healing agent – a natural remedy to “anything but death!”
That statement may be attributed to thymoquinone (TQ), which has been extensively examined. A review found 406 studies revealing its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and liver protective action. For example, researchers looked at the effects of TQ on superoxide radicals in the body. These are molecules that may damage cells.
Using technology, they found that TQ attacks these molecules in two different ways, which helps neutralize them. TQ was really good at getting rid of these molecules than another black seed compound.
Studies support black seed’s many uses due to its various properties. Read the blog to understand how it can help you achieve better health. Take note that it can be eaten or applied to the skin. Inhaling the vapor may have therapeutic effects, but it comes with caution.
1. Relieve Your Allergic Rhinitis and Stuffy Nose
Allergies can cause inflammation of the nose or allergic rhinitis (AR). Also called hay fever, it affects adults and children with no cure.
Researchers studied black seed oil to see if it could help 68 people with AR. First, they underwent skin tests to make sure allergies caused their symptoms. Then, the people in the active group used the herb in the nose for six weeks.
All of them with mild AR were symptom-free after six weeks. For those with moderate symptoms, 68.7% were symptom-free, and 25% improved. For those with severe symptoms, 58.3% were symptom-free, and 25% improved. The rest took a placebo.
Overall, 92.1% of the active group had improved or were symptom-free. In contrast, only 30.1% improved in the placebo group. Plus, the herb group had better tolerance to allergens. Using black seed in the nose can help with allergic rhinitis and has minimal side effects.
At the same time, chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) can be bothersome. It’s a nose and sinus inflammation, unlikely to go away permanently. But, like AR, the symptoms can be managed when it occurs.
Researchers looked into the effects of black seed on CRS. Sixty-five people were divided into two groups. Each group received two puffs of either the one g/day of herb or a placebo nasal spray.
After eight weeks, the herb group significantly improved than the placebo group. Hence, nasal spray can relieve symptoms of CRS with no side effects.
2. Black Seed Oil Alleviates Asthma and Airway Problems
Have you experienced chest tightness and shortness of breath with a wheezing sound? Chances are you already know it’s asthma. It’s an inflammation or narrowing of your airways, which makes breathing difficult.
A 2020 review looked into medical journals to assess the herb’s efficacy on asthma. Four clinical trials on the use of herbal supplements were chosen. These trials show positive effects. Nigella sativa supplements may give add-on benefits to asthma therapy.
An earlier study investigated the benefits of N. sativa oil capsules on 80 adults. They either took 500 mg of the herb or a placebo twice daily. After four weeks, the herb group had better asthma control and lung function tests than the placebo group.
At the same time, another lung problem can benefit from black seed oil. Inflamed airways can cause chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). The difference is that asthma starts in childhood or teenage years. On the other hand, COPD occurs later due to smoking, pollutants, or chemical exposure.
Black seed supplements could help improve the breathing of people with COPD. For example, researchers studied 100 people with mild to moderate COPD. They were divided into two groups to take either the herb or a standard drug.
After three months, the herb group’s breathing improved with reduced inflammation. Moreover, they had a healthier balance of antioxidants in their bodies. So, taking the herb is beneficial as an add-on therapy for people with COPD.
3. Manage Diabetes Symptoms
When you have diabetes, your body has problems processing sugar or glucose. Usually, your body converts the food you eat into glucose for energy.
It signals your pancreas to release insulin that helps transport glucose to your cells. Moreover, it signals your liver to store glucose for later. Your insulin levels go down when your cells use up the glucose. Then, it signals your liver to use the stored glucose.
But what happens when there’s too much glucose? Your pancreas makes more insulin to try to get it in your cells. If this continues for a long time, your cells become insulin-resistant. As a result, your pancreas can’t keep up with the demand, which leads to Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).
A review looked into the effects of black seed oil on blood sugar and insulin in people. After analyzing 875 relevant studies, they found it can improve diabetes symptoms. The herb lowered fasting blood sugar levels. Moreover, it increased serum insulin and improved insulin resistance. So, black seed could be used as an add-on therapy for diabetes drugs.
Another review evaluates N. sativa’s effect on people with prediabetes and T2DM. Eleven randomized controlled trials show that taking herb supplements led to significant results. It includes reduced fasting blood sugar and blood fat levels, insulin, and body mass index. Thus, taking herbal supplements may improve T2DM profiles.
4. Lower Blood Pressure and Risk of Heart Disease
Are you harboring the “silent killer”? Millions of people globally suffer from hypertension or high blood pressure. According to experts, high blood pressure means >130/80 mm Hg.
If you have this condition, the force of blood pushing against the artery walls is always high. It can cause damage to your blood vessels and strains your heart. The higher your blood pressure level, the greater your chances of getting a stroke, heart disease, or attack.
A review looked into randomized controlled trials (RCTs) published before August 2015. Eleven RCTs included 860 people. Findings reveal that taking N. sativa powder for a short period reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure levels significantly.
Powder seemed to have a better effect than oil. Moreover, there was no link between the type of black seed oil, dose, and time to blood pressure reduction. However, these results are promising for short-term use. More studies are needed to support the proof and to explore the herb’s long-term effects.
Another review shows that studies have found that Nigella sativa has antihypertensive properties. In addition, various animal studies have suggested that it can help lower blood pressure through different mechanisms. It includes antioxidant action, ACE inhibition, and calcium channel block. Additionally, active ingredients like thymol and nigellone may also be helpful.
In clinical trials, almost everyone who took it showed decreased blood pressure. It could be used as a safe and effective high-blood pressure therapy. It can also work as an add-on therapy to reduce the dose of conventional drugs.
5. Black Seed Oil May Help With Gut Problems
Does stomach ache, bloating, and nausea sound familiar? Many causes exist, including the Helicobacter Pylori (H. Pylori) bacteria. It’s found in the lining of the stomach and upper intestine. H. Pylori can cause dyspepsia. They are not the same, but they share some common symptoms.
A study looked into 88 adults who took black seed. They tested positive for H. pylori with dyspeptic symptoms. One group received triple therapy (TT). The other three groups received a combination of the herb and omeprazole with either 1, 2, or 3 grams of the herb.
The results show that 2 grams of the herb were as effective as TT. But, the other doses of the herb were less effective than TT. The symptoms of dyspepsia improved in all groups.
Thus, black seed can be a helpful alternative to triple therapy in treating H. pylori infection. Further clinical studies combining black seed with antibiotics are suggested.
Researchers studied the effects of adding black seed oil to traditional quadruple-therapy treatment for H. pylori infection. They divided 51 people with functional dyspepsia into two groups. One group received the traditional therapy plus the herb. At the same time, the other group received the traditional therapy plus a placebo.
The results show that adding the herb to the medical therapy was more effective in H. pylori removal. It also improved the quality of life. Adding the herb to traditional treatment for H. pylori may be beneficial.
6. Boost Fertility
Many couples are finding ways to have a child. Either a man or a woman may need help when it comes to fertility. He may have a low sperm count or sperm quality. On the other hand, she may have problems with hormones and organ function.
A review assessed the effects of black seed on the reproductive system. They looked into 23 control trials involving animals and people. Based on the review, black seed improved sperm and semen in men. Follicle count and the normal cyst-making progesterone hormone improved for women. Ergo, black seed may enhance sexual health in men and women.
In infertile men, a study assessed the effects of black seed oil on abnormal semen quality. Thirty-four men took either 2.5ml of the oil or the same dose of placebo. After two months, the results show the men who took the herb had improved sperm count and semen volume.
Moreover, their sperms improved their shape, size, and ability to move. The study suggests that oil may be an effective therapy. It’s a natural way to enhance abnormal semen quality in infertile men.
At the same time, a review looked into the effects of black seed on infertile women. The results from 14 studies reveal positive findings about black seed and its component, TQ.
Follicle count increased, but so did body weight. But the review also noted reduced malondialdehyde, a marker for oxidative stress. Oxidative stress is linked to decreased fertility in women. So, black seed could be a potential therapy to improve women’s reproductive health.
7. Black Seed Oil May Clear the Skin of Acne
Acne vulgaris is a medical term for acne. It’s a small bump that can have a big impact on the life of teenagers. However, you can still have occasional pimples or zits, even as an adult.
It occurs when the pores in your skin get clogged. It can be due to bacteria, dead skin cells, or your body’s oil. Some contributing factors include diet, hormones, and stress.
A review reveals that 14 studies found it effective for skin problems. These problems are itchy skin or atopic dermatitis, eczema, and psoriasis. Additionally, it includes warts and acne. The most common form is an oil supplement used for 4-24 weeks.
The review shows that TQ is the active ingredient in black seed oil. It acts as a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Moreover, it has antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties. These qualities are likely the reason for black seed’s efficacy in skincare therapy.
While the results reveal promising findings, the studies could be more varied. Further research is needed to determine its optimal dose.
A study looked into black seed oil topical products’ effect on acne vulgaris. Sixty people were divided into two groups who received either black seed hydrogel or a placebo. After two months, the black seed hydrogel group reduced acne symptoms by 78%. It scored better than 3.3% in the placebo group.
Moreover, questionnaires on the impact of acne on the quality of life also showed improved results. No adverse events were reported. That’s why black seed is likely safe and effective therapy for acne vulgaris.
8. Ease Rheumatoid Arthritis
Do you wake up with painful knees and find it hard to get up? It may be arthritis. The cartilage that cautions your joints wears and tears over time. This kind of arthritis, osteoarthritis, is more common in older adults.
In contrast, rheumatoid arthritis (RA) occurs as an autoimmune disorder. Your body mistakes the lining of your joints as alien and attacks it. As a result, it leads to inflammation and joint tissue damage.
A 2018 review looked into the potential effects of black seed oil on RA pain and inflammation. The review reveals that its active ingredient, TQ, had pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects.
In animal and clinical studies, using black seed orally or topically effectively reduced pain and inflammation. No side effects were reported. Although, further studies are needed to understand better the efficacy of black seed as a rheumatoid arthritis therapy.
At the same time, a 2021 review reveals that the oil extract could be rheumatoid arthritis (RA) therapy. It reduces pain and inflammation. Moreover, it helps reduce oxidative stress in people with RA.
TQ has also been shown to affect RA positively. These results suggest that further clinical trials are needed to explore the potential of black seed for RA.
9. Black Seed Oil May Potentially Fight Cancer
Another potential use of black seed is for cancer therapy. Researchers have been looking into natural agents to combat cancer. They found that black seed’s TQ content may help prevent different cancer stages.
Based on a review, it may decrease the growth or spread of cancer cells. At the same time, it may induce cancer cell death. It enhances the effect of combined chemotherapy drugs and radiotherapy as potent agents.
These findings could lead to alternative therapies that can help prevent various types of cancer. Although, more research needs to be done to improve how the body can use and better absorb black seed.
10. May Potentially Help with Brain Problems
Black seed oil has many properties known to benefit the brain. There can come a time that brain cells die off over time, leading to a progressive decline in function. It happens in brain or neurodegenerative disorders.
A 2018 review looked into studies on natural agents for brain disease. These studies found that TQ is a potential therapy for depression, epilepsy, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s disease.
The review also reveals that TQ works as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. So studies on TQ are promising. Although, more human clinical trials are needed before confirming its effects.
Similarly, a 2023 review suggests that black seed may help people with brain problems. It’s a promising substance for its phytochemicals and lack of side effects. Moreover, it has brain-protecting properties as an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory.
A way of delivering black seed to the brain is through nanotechnology. This therapy makes substances into tiny bubbles, droplets, or particles, which enables them to cross the blood-brain barrier. It ensures effective and safe delivery of the substance to the brain.
The review proposes research should be done on improving how black seed oil can be delivered to the body by using nanotechnology.
How Does Black Seed Oil Work in Nutshell?
Black seed works in many, but not so mysterious ways. It has been studied as a natural remedy for many ailments. As a result, scientists have thoroughly discussed the mechanisms behind this potent herb.
- Cell protector – Black seed contains phenolic acids, flavonoids, and TQ that exhibit antioxidant action. They detoxify your body from free radicals or harmful substances.
- Germ killer – It kills antibiotic multi-drug resistant bacteria Staphylococcus aureus from contaminated body surfaces. The same goes for Listeria monocytgenes from contaminated food.
- Antiviral – It slows down virus replication and reduces viral infection symptoms, like COVID-19. Although a recent study claims more evidence-based studies are needed. Because, at present, there still needs to be more scope, quantity, and quality of research.
- Fungus and parasite killers – TQ combats a yeast, Candida albicans, causing vaginal problems. It reduces the number of fungal colonies in the body part. Black seed can prevent the growth of parasites or ticks like Babesi from cattle.
- Anticancer – TQ induces cell death and stops the growth of tumors.
- Anti-inflammatory and immune booster – It suppresses the production of cytokines or small proteins that promote inflammation. Additionally, it improves natural killer cells that help support the immune system.
- Heart protector and blood pressure reducer – Due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it reduces heart oxidative stress. At the same time, its calcium-channel blocking and diuretic activity lower blood pressure. Calcium channel blockers prevent calcium from entering heart and artery cells. On the other hand, diuretics help remove water and salt in your body.
- Blood sugar and blood fat regulator – It increases insulin sensitivity and improves blood sugar uptake in cells. As a result, it helps regulate blood sugar levels. It also reduces blood fat levels and increases good fats or high-density lipoprotein.
Where Can You Get Black Seed Oil?
Black seed as oil can spice dishes in their most natural form. It also comes in oral liquid and capsule. Lotions and creams also contain black seeds in these skincare products.
When buying black seed supplements, look at their active ingredient. Most products contain about 0.5% to 5% TQ. However, it doesn’t necessarily mean a higher TQ is more effective.
It depends on the formulation since black seed oil contains other helpful compounds. Examples are flavonoids and fatty acids. To help you decide, always check the manufacturer’s label and research the specific brand. Look for factors like the quality and purity of the product.
What are the Side Effects?
Supplements and skin applications are generally safe for short-term use. Potential side effects are uncommon. For example, using it on the skin may cause allergic reactions. At the same time, taking it by mouth may cause nausea or slight stomach discomfort. It includes a burning stomach sensation, bloating, vomiting, or constipation.
What are the Dose and Timing?
There is no set standard dose at present. The amount depends on the manufacturer. So, talking to your healthcare provider before taking black seed supplements is best.
Studies show that a typical black seed oil dose is 5 mL or 5 grams daily for up to 12 weeks. In power form, it’s 2 grams daily for up to 12 months. However, some healthcare providers suggest a 1-2.3 grams dose daily for 4-12 weeks.
Additionally, some healthcare providers recommend oil on the skin. For skin problems, apply it thrice daily for up to 1 month or twice daily for up to 6 months. Gels (30%) can be used twice daily for about two months.
Is Black Seed Oil Safe?
It’s generally safe to be taken by mouth or applied on the skin. A 2020 overview assessed it as a safe herb. No severe side effects were reported. Moreover, 5 mL/day for 26 days did not show liver, kidney, or gut side effects.
Studies on animals show it may have a contraceptive effect and decrease uterine contractions. So, healthcare providers won’t usually recommend black seed oil for pregnant women. However, it’s best to talk to your healthcare provider if you are expecting.
Additionally, black seed interacts with certain drugs. That’s why experts suggest avoiding black seed if you take any of these medicines.
- Diuretics – Taking black seed might reduce potassium levels resulting in very low potassium levels. It can cause irregular heartbeats and an increased risk of heart failure.
- Antidepressants – Black seed can increase the risk of severe muscle rigidity or seizures. It can also result in tightening vessels that transport oxygen to the brain.
- Anticoagulants/antiplatelets – Black seed may increase your risk of bleeding.
- Anti-diabetes meds – The increased risk of low blood sugar levels is possible.
- High blood pressure drugs – The herb can increase the risk of low blood pressure.
- Central Nervous System depressants – Sedation or drowsiness may worsen.
- Immunosuppressants – Black seed might interfere with the effects of the therapy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Question 1: What are the benefits of back seed oil?
Black seed oil contains thymoquinone, a potent antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory. It promotes skin, gut, airway, heart, joints, and reproductive health.
Question 2: How do I use black seed oil?
You can use it topically for skin acne. You can also take it by mouth for various health problems. It’s best to check with your healthcare provider before using it.
Question 3: Where can I find high-quality black seed oil?
You can find it in grocery, specialty shops, drug stores, and online shops. Compare and assess the different brands for potency and purity before buying. Also, check first with a healthcare provider.
Final Thoughts
Black seed oil is a natural herbal remedy for many ailments for centuries. A body of evidence supports its health benefits because of TQ. Like any supplement, there are risks and potential side effects. But studies consider it as safe.
Before trying it, research reputable sources and consult with your healthcare provider.
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