Black Cumin Seed Oil Health Benefits – Top 21 Uses

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You’ve heard of the craze about black seed oil. But sometimes things get “overhyped”. Is this an example? Here are the top black cumin seed oil health benefits, side effects, and what you need to know.

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An oil that has been used for thousands of years has also found itself increasingly popular even today. However, there are still many who do not know about this “black seed oil” that was once a powerful global medicine.

Today we are going to be talking about the black cumin seed oil health benefits that make it so trusted and effective for treating many kinds of ailments.

The ancient Egyptians used to call this oil “a gift from God”, and used it for almost any ailment or illness you can think of besides only death.

Its earliest known documentation comes from the Hebrew Old Testament itself, indicating its importance in even those times. And furthermore, Ayurveda, and much of the Roman Empire, Ancient Greeks, and the Persians all knew about the miracles of black seed oil.

It is extracted from black cumin Nigella Sativa, which was used to spice bread in ancient times. (P.S. it is not actually a type of cumin! It’s just a common name :))

In this article, we cover over 20 of the most important health benefits and applications the make this oil so significant. The health benefits of black cumin seed oil are varied, so let’s get into it!

Skin Conditions

A number of important black seed oil health benefits are due to its effects on the skin. This powerful oil is a potent anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, and anti-fungal superstar!

One study found that the oil exhibits antimicrobial activity on a number of bacteria resistant to modern-day antibiotics. The study tested 144 different bacterial strains (most of which had antimicrobial resistance), and found black cumin seed oil to be effective against over two-thirds of them!

1. Psoriasis

Let’s start off with one of the most common uses of black seed oil. Psoriasis is an inflammatory skin condition that causes red and dry skin to build up, often being itchy or even painful. The causes vary, and oftentimes an inflammatory diet is at play. An important step in treatment is a healthy diet, but black seed oil seems to be very effective!

There are hundreds of testimonials and claims from people who have greatly improved their condition by applying black seed oil. These applications include externally (directly on the skin), internally, and both. Many of these people have suffered from psoriasis for long amounts of time, finding the best relief (or even cure) to be this oil!

According to the above-cited study, Staphylococcus aureus – a bacteria that sometimes contributes to psoriasis and skin conditions – is sensitive to black seed oil. This is important because it is one kind of bacteria that has built up an antimicrobial resistance. This means that it has now become resistant to drugs such as penicillin, aminoglycoside antibiotics, and more. For this reason, black seed oil should be considered as a preferential treatment (and one with less risk of side effects)!

2. Eczema

This is another skin condition that can cause the skin to become red and itchy. It is most common in children, but can occur at any age. Another name for it is atopic dermatitis.

Staphylococcus aureus once again plays a role in this skin condition. In those that have eczema, this bacteria oftentimes has a large presence(^). Fortunately, black seed oil has powerful properties that fight eczema, and for many, it is a better treatment than anything else they have tried.

This is due to the antibacterial power of black seed oil. Two of the most notable active ingredients in black seed oil are Thymoquinone and Thymohydroquinone. A study review referencing over 35 independent studies also concluded on the efficacy of these properties!

3. Acne

Acne affects a lot of people throughout their lives, but is particularly common during increased hormonal change. For this reason, teenagers are particularly prone to different types of acne.

There are a number of bacteria that can cause this, and as you may expect, the antimicrobial actions of black seed oil make it very useful in reducing and treating outbursts

4. Wound Healing

If you’ve ever cut your finger and waited for over a week for it to heal, it might be easy to see how complicated the wound healing process is. Interestingly, topical applications of black seed oil appear to be effective in speeding this up(^).

This is potentially due to multiple reasons, including antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects. Additionally, the prevention of microbial infection can be a useful aid.

Black seed oil contains an abundance of nutrients which may also help!

• Thymoquinone
• Thymohydroquinone
• Iron
• Calcium
• Selenium
• Potassium
• Arginine
• Oleic Acid
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids
• Omega-6 Fatty Acids

(These are some examples)

Another impressive food source which can improve wound healing is bone broth. Check out my post here to learn more!

Antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects play roles in treating all of the above. With some of the next illnesses and conditions, we will be placing more emphasis on these effects.

An interesting find is that it may also prevent internal scarring (and thus perhaps external)(^)!

Illnesses and Conditions

Numerous black cumin seed oil health benefits make it effective for treating a range of serious illnesses and conditions. These vary widely, and as such we see the wealth of powerful properties that black cumin seed oil has(^).

Different nutrients present in black seed oil exhibit different properties. We’ll talk about this in a little detail below, noting on some of the most-studied therapeutic effects.

Let’s get into it!

5. Diabetes

The Journal of Endocrinology & Metabol published an article assessing the anti-diabetic properties of Nigella sativa(^). This was a review study conducted in India, which cited information from 76 individual studies. The review concluded the seeds of black cumin to be an effective form of treatment for Diabetes.

This includes information on the effectiveness against Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes across different information sources.

One of the cited studies found at petroleum as an extract of Nigella sativa had insulin-sensitising actions. It also notes that two of the major intracellular pathways for insulin were enhanced in activity.

This resulted in a lower level of fasting plasma levels of insulin. Other actions also lowered the levels of triglycerides and increased HDL cholesterol. This effect on cholesterol can also reduce the chance of type 2 diabetes. However, fasting blood glucose levels remained unchanged. This was conducted in rats and no information on dosage was given.

The oil may reduce blood sugar levels in some people, so monitor this regularly. It is best to start with a small amount.

Another study conducted in India:

This study worked with 60 patients, all of which had insulin resistance (which can ultimately lead to type 2 diabetes).

This was divided into 2 groups. One of which took 10mg atorvastatin and 500mg metformin twice a day (Group I). The other took the same along with 2.5ml of black cumin seed oil twice daily (Group II).

Before and after this treatment, measurements of blood glucose, cholesterol, and others were taken. The findings indicated significant improvements in fasting blood sugar, after-meal blood glucose, cholesterol and lipoprotein profile, and abdominal circumference. In all of these, Group II improved considerably more in these measurements, than did Group I.

In Group II, for example, means showed that fasting blood glucose reduced by over 29%, HDL increased by almost 16%, and LDL decreased by almost 24%. Different patients, of course, showed different statistics, but the improvements were fairly consistent to create the above averages.

Streptozotocin (STZ) has been used as a drug in the treatment of some cancers, but rarely is a cure. It is highly toxic to pancreas beta cells, which produce insulin. For this reason, it’s linked with contributing to type 1 and type 2 diabetes in too high doses.

Here we cite yet another study that worked with rats that were treated with black seed oil. They also received treatment of Thymoquinone. The rats with streptozotocin-induced diabetes showed an increase in serum insulin, with Thymoquinone reducing most of the toxic effects. It also protected beta cells against oxidative stress, meaning that it shows even more potential in the treatment of diabetes.

Overview

So as you can probably see, this amazing oil can help even in Diabetes! (Pretty good, right?) We’ll also cover this when we speak about its overlapping effect on heart health!

What this all shows is the great potency of black cumin seed oil to reduce the effects and the chance of diabetes.

However, I should say there are some areas of conflicting information on this subject. Study is ongoing and requires further investigation for all-round confirmation(^).

6. Arthritis

Arthritis is a serious joint problem that affects many people around the world. It is most prominent with ageing and has multiple causes and severities.

Fortunately, research is showing that Nigella sativa oil can help to lessen the symptoms of this condition in several ways.

The main ways that this happens is by the reduction of inflammation and of oxidative stress.

Powerful components in black cumin seed oil such as thymoquinone not only fight free radicals but can lower the effects of inflammation.

One study review found that black cumin seed oil can improve inflammation in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and supplementation with seed extract may also be beneficial(^).

As research continues and the field of naturopathic medical treatment increases, perhaps the oil will be used more in this way.

What’s more? Well, one other study worked with 40 female patients with RA. They actually found that Nigella sativa oil capsules significantly decreased the disease activity score of the condition(^).

Impressively, morning stiffness duration and number of swollen joints also improved. This effect was found in 42.5% patients when taking 500mg twice a day. Once again, supplementation with Nigella sativa is suggested to be a potential option for therapy.

Decreased pain in many is also a common benefit of this oil!

In order to observe the effects of thymoquinone itself, a group of Turkish researchers carried out a different study in rats(^). For the study, ‘Freund’s incomplete adjuvant’ (a chemical formula) was administered to different groups of rats to simulate arthritis.

Clinical and radiological measurements then confirmed that thymoquinone administration effectively suppressed the arthritis. This is suggested to be through its anti-inflammatory and immunological benefits.

Altogether, this shows that Nigella sativa and its extracts demonstrate a positive potential to help those with arthritis! How great could that be!

7. Asthma

One of the most researched black cumin seed oil benefits is its application in the treatment of asthma.

Asthma is a respiratory disease in which the lungs become inflamed. The can cause coughing, wheezing, and difficulty breathing, and therefore can be quite severe for some.

A significant study conducted in Iran found great value in the usage of Nigella sativa seed extract. 29 asthmatic adults were studied for 3 months under two different kinds of treatment. The first group was the control group, receiving a placebo. On the other hand, the study group of 15 people received the extract. They administered these for every day of the 3 months.

After 45 days, the severity and frequency of asthma symptoms, wheezing, and pulmonary (lung) function tests what all measured in each individual. All of these measurements showed significant improvements in the study group when compared to the control group.

Then again, at the end of the study the same measurements were taken, showing yet again significant improvements.

Additionally, one study has demonstrated antiasthmatic effects on the ariways, too(^)!

So what can we learn from this? Well, quite simply of the anti-inflammatory, relaxant, anticholinergic, even antihistaminic power of this amazing seed! Asthmatic patients could potentially see great benefits from treatment using its extracts and oils.

Nigella sativa appears to be a safe and effective treatment for those with this condition. And who knows, as research increases maybe we’ll see this being promoted in the mainstream!

On the topic of other respiratory diseases.

We’ve spoken so far about thymoquinone, but there is also something called Nigellone present in black seed oil. This is a chemical polymer of thymoquinone and acts a bit differently but still has many benefits. One of its benefits is is antispasmodic effect and its ability to increase mucus clearance. For this reason, it may be and some lung conditions with these symptoms, such as trachea contractions(^).

8. Obesity

Obesity is an epidemic. In the US alone, the prevalence of obesity in 2015-2016 was 39.8% of adults and just under 20% of children and adolescents. In the UK, 1 in 4 adults is classed as overweight.

This is a serious problem and causes problems not just for those involved. Whilst in some parts of the world people can’t afford to eat enough, others are unfortunately having too much. There’s clearly an imbalance that needs to be solved, both for the health of the planet’s people, and its sustainability.

But, we’re not here to speak about that. So, how can we combat this?

These conditions can cause serious health complications in people, and fortunately, we now know more than ever about losing weight healthily. Dietary and physical activity changes both play important roles. Nigella sativa oil can aid in weight loss and help to combat obesity.

This is impressive considering that it can also directly fight complications induced by this condition, such as diabetes!

What Iranian research has shown… It’s quite impressive!

An Iranian study worked with 50 obese women in order to see how Nigella sativa oil can positively improve obesity(^). One group of 25 received 3g a day of the oil, and the other group 3g a day of a placebo. This was carried out over 8 weeks and both groups followed a low-calorie diet.

The suggested conclusions from the results were that the oil and diet aid in decreasing weight and increasing superoxidase dismutase (SOD) levels.

SOD is an enzyme in the body and is one of the body’s most powerful antioxidants. For this reason, it helps to prevent damage to cells, thus preventing complications and obesity.

The same group of Iranian researchers also conducted a similar study with 84 females(^). The conditions were the same, but this time the groups for split into 41 (placebo) and 43.

The findings presented that weight and waist circumference decreased significantly more than that Placebo group. Furthermore, there were major positive differences in triglycerides and very-low-density lipoprotein (vLDL) levels.

This shows benefits for the heart as well, which we will speak about later. Other studies demonstrate similar conclusions on weight loss improvement, but further research is suggested(^).

Overall though, there is certainly potential for this oil to aid in reducing obesity and boosting weight loss, (amongst more)!

The list gets better and better, right?

9. Cancer

Disclaimer: Read the precautions at the end of this article. Antioxidants in black seed could interfere with standard cancer treatments.

There has been a fair amount of research into this subject matter (^), and promising results are showing! Nigella sativa oil and it’s components each have different benefits in the treatment and prevention of different kinds of cancer. For this reason, it may be beneficial, but more research is needed for confirmation – particularly in vitro.

Let’s discuss some of these studies, their results, and the conclusions drawn from other studies as well.

Firstly, thymoquinone and thymohydroquinone both have demonstrated antitumour activity. One study which injected these chemicals into a group of control animals found that the inhibition of tumor growth was 52% in those with the injections (^)!

This was considered significant by the researchers, who suggest that this activity may be improved with an increased dosage. They used 5mg per kg of body weight in the experiment.

Prostate Cancer

One type of cancer that thymoquinone from Nigella sativa seems particularly potent against is prostate cancer. Studies have shown that this chemical can induce cell apoptosis (controlled death) in prostate cancer cells.

Furthermore, it may also prevent its onset and could be used as a safe treatment (^).

Blood Cancer

Several types of blood cancer have also been studied, and components of Nigella sativa have been shown to effectively fight cancerous cells.

One study found that thymoquinone activates caspases, which are important proteins responsible for cell apoptosis. One example is caspase-8, which, during this apoptosis, initiates the release of cytochrome c (^). Cytochrome c is then responsible for activating other caspases. This was therefore reported to be a mechanism by which certain leukaemia cells can be killed. (^)

Another study 2 years earlier demonstrated that alpha-Hederin, an isolate of black cumin seed, is also effective against P388 leukaemia cells(^). This is due to a similar reaction to thymoquinone! There was a significant increase in apoptosis in vivo (outside of live organisms), and this effect increased with time and with dose.

We can see here that black seed oil, with further research, may have potential in the treatment of these cancers!

Cervical Cancer

In vivo and in vitro tests have demonstrated that extracts from Nigella sativa effectively kill cancerous cells. Additionally, it may be effective for preventing cervical cancer. (^)

These extracts include ‘chloroform fractions’, which are found in the seed.

With further research, it could be developed as therapeutic treatment, alternative to conventional treatment methods.

Other Cancers

Black cumin seed oil and its components so impressive effects on different types of cancer. Those above have some of them most promising research, but there is also a lot of positive research in other types:

• Pancreatic cancer*
  
• Lung cancer*
  
• Colon cancer*
  
• Breast cancer
  
• And more! (^)

*Conflicting information due to one study conducted in Ireland (^).

10. Migraines

Historically and traditionally, black cumin seeds and the oil have been used in India, northern Africa, and in the Middle East for headaches, amongst other ailments.

Migraines are a type of severe headache, which have many possible causes. These include dehydration, stress, inflammation, and underlying problems. Fortunately, black seed oil has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties, which means that it can reduce pain, and oftentimes its causes.

Two individual studies from Saudi Arabia support this (^), and reinforce the usage of Nigella sativa in folk medicine. (^)

Apart from trying to avoid stress, staying hydrated, getting enough exercise, and eating an anti-inflammatory diet can all help to prevent and reduce migraines. Additionally, instead of reaching for over-the-counter, natural remedies such as black seed oil just may help, too!

Digestive Ailments

Digestive issues and gastrointestinal diseases affect many of us in the modern world. Oftentimes this may be due to diet, but sometimes doesn’t always have known causes.

In this section we are going to be speaking about 3 common digestive ailments. Fortunately, the health benefits of black cumin seed oil we will talk about can help these issues!

Let’s get into it.

11. Ulcers

Peptic / gastric ulcers occur in the stomach, small intestines, or lower oesophagus. They have a few main causes. Most commonly, bacterial infection by Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) causes these ulcers. Additionally, NSAIDs such as aspirin and Ibuprofen may cause them, similarly to alcohol abuse.

Several studies have concluded that Nigella sativa effectively combats H. pylori- and alcohol-induced ulcers.

In one study (^), 88 adults with Helicobacter pylori infection where are signed into 4 groups. The first group received three different modern antibiotics, whilst the other three received 1g, 2g, and 3g, of black cumin seeds along with omeprazole.

The findings indicated that 2 grams of the seeds (+omeprazole) was the most effective treatment, and improved symptoms. This treatment was statistically similar to those receiving other antibiotics.

Although these patients had not developed ulcers, the conditions may have led to such. The antibacterial effects on H. pylori show potential benefits and may help those with gastric ulcers.

Alcohol-induced ulcers have also been treated effectively and rats with Nigella sativa oil. The black cumin seed oil health benefits found in one study showed increased antioxidant levels and mucin content (^). Mucin is important in humans as it helps to defend against bacterial and fungal infections.

Interestingly, this helps to explain its anti-pathogenic effects on H. pylori!

Additionally, inflammatory marker levels were shown to be lower in rats that received the oil. This indicates a protective action against the ulcers, through enhanced defence and lower inflammation. Improvements have also been demonstrated in rabbits (^)!

Another meta-analysis of 57 individuals publications also supports this(^). It concluded that black cumin has anti-ulcer effects that can both improve and prevent ethanol-induced ulcers.

12. IBD (Inflammatory Bowel Disease)

As we have seen from other benefits, such as improvements in arthritis, skin conditions, asthma, and ulcers, black seed oil is highly anti-inflammatory.

Additionally, its gastrointestinal effects can greatly benefit stomach and digestive health overall.

For this reason, other inflammatory conditions such as inflammatory bowel disease could effectively be improved with black seed oil. Being a source of in Omega-3 fatty acids is also a great benefit that might help here! Although study isn’t high, there is potential for Omega-3 to benefit those with IBD. (^)

Therefore, it’s possible that black seed oil can help to reduce the effects and symptoms of IBD, including pain. The carminative effects of Nigella sativa may also play a role.

More research may be needed to confirm the above, particularly in long-term usage. We will discuss this later on when speaking about any possible side effects.

Overall, there is a large potential for Nigella sativa to benefit this chronic illness (^).

13. IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome)

IBS or irritable bowel syndrome is a problem that many face. Rather than being a second edition or defined disease, it is a term used to describe symptoms.

These symptoms can include bloating, gas, constipation, diarrhoea, stomach pain, and more.

Unfortunately, IBS has no known definitive cause or cure, and therefore can be hard to treat. One treatment that works particularly well for many is peppermint tea, but research suggests that Nigella sativa could also be beneficial (^).

Beneficial effects on the gastrointestinal systems and the ability to reduce inflammation and exhibit immunomodulatory properties may explain this.

Overall Health Improvements

So far we have covered specific conditions that can benefit black cumin seed oil health benefits.

We have also explained its great therapeutic potential because of its specific properties and effects.

Now will speak a little about how the body and organs can also benefit!

14. Liver Health

The liver is an important organ in digestion, and has a core function in detoxifying the body and creating proteins. Therefore, impaired liver function can lead to multiple complications.

Black seed oil may benefit the liver by increasing liver function and protecting it from harm.

One 2014 study published in the Iranian Journal of Basic Medical Science analysed its effects on the liver. The researchers sourced necessary information from over 80 sources!

Their findings indicated that Nigella sativa is an effective preventative medicine and can postpone chronic liver diseases. In those with hepatic disorders, this may be particularly useful. (‘Hepatic’ simply means ‘relating to the liver’).

One cited article from Egypt concluded information about both black seed and ginger extracts (^). The single and combined extracts were effective at significantly improving liver function and ameliorating viral load. Researchers observed this in patients with hepatitis C.

This is likely due to the anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-oxidative (^), and other hepatoprotective properties of the herb.

Liver fibrosis is the scarring of healthy liver tissue, which leads to impaired function and can develop into liver cirrhosis. A Turkish study from 2014 found that Nigella sativa oil can effectively reverse liver fibrosis and greatly reduce oxidative stress. Interestingly, the oil showed a more potent effect than Nigella sativa itself or thymoquinone! (^)

It may also benefit in alcohol damage, paracetamol damage, reperfusion injury, and cancer (^)!

So far, I have found no major studies reporting any significant toxic effect of Nigella sativa. And, another study aimed at researching the toxicity of the herb on liver function found no correlation in moderate doses of 1g/kg in rats (^).

15. Heart Health

We all know how important our heart is! The super pump that beats tens of thousands of times every day is essential for keeping oxygen, nutrients, and more flowing throughout the body.

Apart from exercise, a heart-healthy diet is essential for proper function.

We mentioned earlier that black seed oil can help to reduce obesity. Excess healthy fat can increase the risk of abnormal heart function. By losing weight, or staying in a healthy weight range, blood pressure, sugar levels, and cholesterol profiles may benefit.

Hypercholesterolaemia is when plasma levels of cholesterol are too high. This can increase LDL levels, which may be harmful when the LDL particles are small and dense (as is common in many).

Fortunately, dietary inclusion of black seed extracts (such as the oil) can significantly lower the chance of this!
(^)

Likewise, hyperglycemia is blood sugar levels are too high. This is often caused by a lack of insulin and can lead to complications such as diabetes.

In this case, black seed oil may also be significantly beneficial as preventative and treatment medicine. This is in part because of the hypoglycaemic effects which lower blood sugar.* (^).

Impressively, Nigella sativa also has protective effects against hypertension. The cardiovascular benefits related to this include a slow heart rate and a diuretic effect (which reduced required output by the heart). (^)

Another study also demonstrated benefits to the cardiovascular system in rats. It would seem that the effects of thymoquinone can reduce blood pressure and prevent harmful inflammation! (^)

16. Brain Health

So far we’ve discussed healthy fats and nutrients provided by black seed oil. What we haven’t covered is what makes black cumin seed oil a brain-boosting remedy.

As it happens, these healthy fats may aid in brain function. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidative effects of the oil could play a big role here.

Additionally, the reduced levels of blood sugars can prevent spikes. When blood sugar levels spike, particularly if high how often, this can damage brain cells. The resulting effect is reduced neurological function and improper development and growth of neurons and other cells.

However, there are other benefits which are more directly related to the brain (^).

Here is a useful list of these for you:

• Increased tryptophan protein levels
  • (which helps with forming new cells and healthy development)
• Anti-anxiety effects (^)
  • (known as ‘anxiolytic’ effects)
• Analgesic activity
  • (reduced central nervous system pain)
• Potential to improve learning and memory
  • (as demonstrated in rat studies)
• Protection from cerebral ischemia (^)
  • (protection from restricted blood flow)
• Prevention of and therapeutic effects on neurodegeneration and injury (^)
  • (due to antioxidants and anti-inflammatory actions).
• Suppression of epilepsy and other seizure (^)(^)(^)
  • (preventative effects on siezures)

17. Skin Care

As covered in previous points, black seed oil is useful for helping many skin conditions. These include psoriasis, eczema, acne, and it can also help in wound healing whilst possibly preventing scarring. One study suggests that it may even help in skin cancer, as it can in others.(^)

This is because of the anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidative, and anti-microbial properties. Providing a range of nutrients in healthy fats also helps. These benefits also help to prevent skin conditions in the first place!

Because of the oils and nutrients provided, topical application of black seed oil may be a great way to nourish the skin.

It is particularly useful for people with oily skin types because it is high in Omega-6 linoleic acid. It also provides some Omega-9 oleic acid, which helps to moisturise the skin.

For those with dry skin, it may be beneficial but isn’t the best oil. This is because although it does contain oleic acid, there are oils which contain much more and are therefore better-suited alternatives. An example would be olive oil – which has a range of amazing health benefits as well! Check Out My Post on it Here to Learn More…

18. Hair Care

Great! So we know that black seed oil can be used in skin care, but what about its counterpart: hair care?

Well, as it happens, black cumin seed oil health benefits can also apply to your hair! Although I’m sure you’re not surprised by now!

This also applies to men, particularly in ageing. Not only does it provide minerals essential for hair health, but it also provides antioxidants. These antioxidants prevent the breakdown of healthy tissues in ageing. This can help to prevent hair loss and keep your hair strong and healthy.

Here is a recipe encouraged by The Blessed Seed for bald spots.

One study suggests that Nigella sativa could inhibit testosterone decrease in the blood. As men age, testosterone naturally decreases. Keeping its levels up is an important aspect of an anti-ageing lifestyle. (^)

Additionally, Nigella sativa and its oil can encourage hair growth and prevent hair loss. This is possibly due to the antioxidative and antimicrobial qualities, which restore the strength of your hair follicles! In fact, black seed oil has been used for thousands of years across many cultures for it’s beneficial effects on hair and skin! (^)

The oil can also help with treating scalp and hair conditions. Telogen effluvium is a disorder which causes thinning and shedding. Fortunately, research has found that the oil can significantly improve this disorder.

Hair / Scalp Conditions

In one study, patients affected by this were treated with a lotion containing 0.5% black seed oil. After 3 months, there were considerable improvements, but after 6 this improvement was at 70%! (^)

The anti-inflammatory effects play a key part here. Therefore it may possibly help with other inflammatory hair conditions.

Much like with the skin, parasitic hair condition may benefit from black seed oil. This includes treating the abhorred head lice!

There are even testimonials about it improving greyness and boosting hair growth.(^)

Other Useful Applications

We have covered A LOT so far.

We have seen how black seed oil benefits health and can help with different ailments, conditions, and illnesses. Not only that, but we have learnt about the different ways in which it can promote overall health as a dietary supplement, preventative medicine, or healthcare remedy.

Here are some quick useful applications that can make life easier, and benefit you health! This herb really is versatile, right?

19. Insect Repellent and Safe Eco-friendly Pesticide

First of all, this herb and its oil act as brilliant insect repellents, and can help to keep away mosquitoes in the summer!

Personally, mosquitoes seem to love me, so this may prove particularly useful!

If you get a lot of bites, maybe it’s worth applying a little to exposed skin. If you want to keep them out of your house, using an oil burner could be quite effective!

I haven’t tried this myself, because my bedroom window is always open anyway! From what I’ve read it has helped others, so let me know if it works for you, too!

In Agriculture

Thymol is a type of phenol found in thyme, hence the name. However, it is also found in Nigella sativa.

We now know that this can be applied as an effective insecticide against multiple crop-destroying species (^). It also has anti-bacterial and anti-fungal activities which could protect crops further (^).

As population increases, so does climate change, and we need options that can cater for both of these.

Modern chemicals used in agriculture can often have adverse effects on the environment. These include killing bees in some cases – and without them the world as we know it simply wouldn’t be. They’re a central part of the ecosystems throughout the globe and more urgent action needs to be taken to protect them.

Amazingly, thymol doesn’t only not have this effect, but it can directly help bees! It has been shown to be a safe treatment against the varroa mite, which attacks honey bees (^).

Since it dissipates rapidly and leaves little environmental residue, it is also a much more eco-friendly option. (^)
Hopefully, the EPA will consider its registration once they have enough data. (^)

What does means is that extracts from black seed and its oil are safe and effective treatments for agricultural purposes.

At the same time, this poses little risk to the environment and may help to reduce our impact on it.

As research increases, perhaps the oil itself will have a place in these applications.

On the topic of helping the planet, I’d love to give word to Eat Grub, who I proudly ambass. They are spreading the word of entomophagy throughout the West, helping to reduce our impact on the planet and working towards a healthy, sustainable future.

They sell nutritious and delicious edible insects and bugs, check them out to learn more! Discover more here or use the banner below!

20. Pesticide-induced Toxicity Reduction

Not only can certain modern chemicals and pesticides affect the planet and nature itself, but they can harm us too. Toxic effects can manifest themselves in multiple ways.

This can mean convulsions, impaired organ and cell function, muscle pain, and a lot more. Unpleasantly, this can also include adversely affecting the reproductive organs.

Acetamiprid, toluene, colchicine, and chlorpyrifos are such examples.

But wait, there may be good news! Apart from the fact that we are slowly making changes in our actions, Nigella sativa oil and thymoquinone can effectively reduce the damage done and perhaps prevent serious harm. This has been demonstrated in numerous studies with rats. (^)

21. Allergy Reduction

Aaaand, onto some more direct black cumin seed oil health benefits…

Certain qualities of this oil could benefit those with allergies! And when I mean allergies, I’m also talking about overactive immune systems.

Particularly during the change of seasons around Spring and Autumn, people find themselves with irritating symptoms such as:

• Runny/blocked nose
• Sore throat
• Itchy eyes
• Sneezing
• Headaches
• Fatigue

These are often caused by excess inflammation.

Hay Fever / Allergic Rhinitis

This is allergic rhinitis, better known as hay fever, and is a common allergic reaction. The cause is often pollen from grass and certain trees and weeds. Other causes are mould and dust mites.

In 2011, researchers in Iran tested the use of Nigella sativa against this allergy. (^)

Working with 66 patients in all, they had a considerable portion size with which to work. The study lasted for 30 days, and at the end measurements of relevant white blood cells and antibodies were taken. Each patient was given black seed oil.

In over 90% of the patients’ nasal wash, antibody levels were not even measurable! The researchers additionally found that almost 95% of the patient’s where 3 from nasal mucosal eosinophil. This is a type of white blood cell associated with allergy mechanisms.

This shows a much reduced allergic response and a promising remedy for hay fever!

Other Allergies

There is also promising research supporting black Seed oil as a natural remedy for other allergies. Decreased symptoms and less active immune responses have been found in bronchial asthma, atopic eczema, and allergic diarrhoea! (^) (^)

Overall, for those of you suffering with allergies, particularly hay fever, black seed oil may be a safe and effective remedy to reduce symptoms and restore the immune system!

Make sure to read the following precautions for your own safety before trying this for yourself.

Potential Adverse Effects / Reactions

This section is a disclaimer for your safety. Make sure to read it carefully, as we are effectively talking about medicine in this article – even if it is natural! There may be some black cumin seed oil side effects that occur in some people, considering the following:

If you are taking any medication (especially related to a topic in this article), are pregnant, or are breastfeeding, always make sure to speak with a medical professional before using Nigella sativa. Its medicinal properties could interfere with or interact with conventional medicines.

The same goes for those with the following:

• Bleeding Disorders
• Cancer
• Diabetes
• Hypotension

Additionally, avoid it before surgery, at least for two weeks. This is to prevent any risk of lowered blood sugar or slowed blood clotting.

Adverse reactions to watch out for include:

• Contact Dermatitis
• Upset Stomach
• Allergic Reactions (see below)

Allergic Reactions

This is ironic to benefit #20, I know!

But, as with any new food, medicine, or herb introduced into the diet or used therapeutically, it is always best to be sure about the safety of the product you are using and watch out for adverse reactions.

Allergic reactions could include contact dermatitis if applied topically. Symptoms are red rashes that may blister, or be itchy or painful.

If ingested, watch out for an upset stomach of any sort, any swelling, difficulty breathing, tingling sensations, and dizziness.

Recommendations on Use…

Most studies conclude that the oil and herb are very safe and have shown little significant side effects. Being on the safe side is important, though.

Make sure that you are using a trusted, medical grade product, preferably organic and free from artificial additives. All of those found in this post are high quality items from trusted retailers, with positive reviews and testimonials. The Blessed Seed sell high quality oil and capsules of different strengths, and have many impressive testimonials from people they have helped.

Their team published an article on our website all about the benefits of cooking with the oil, and how you can use it yourself.

Check out the post here: The Health Benefits of Cooking with Black Cumin (Nigella sativa)

They also sell Organic Black Seed Honey!

If that’s not for you, consider Zen Herbs’ Black Seed Oil Capsules for an easy, healthy dose.

If you have no concerns as outlined above, starting with small amounts of the oil is ideal.

Whether you take it internally or externally, start with a small dosage (often standard dosage guidelines will be found on products – start below this).

If no adverse effects are observed – which is likely – then you can work your way up to a normal dosage and enjoy the benefits! 🙂

Conclusion! Black Seed Oil Overview

This is a rather long article covering many of the black cumin seed oil health benefits that there are! (And some precautions…)

Overall, we see that black seed oil is amazingly therapeutic as a natural dietary / supplementary addition, and also has many benefits when applied topically. Black cumin seed oil health benefits are both effective and versatile. Egyptian, Ayurvedic, African, and European practices knew about this thousands of years ago, and held it in great merit.

There is an abundance of research on this oil and its herbal black seed (Nigella sativa), and we are still learning more!

They may even benefit the planet, making them a natural multi-tool for day-to-day applications and long-term positive changes.

Remember to always use a trusted product and take precautions when trying new natural remedies.

If you’re looking for some good products to use, why not try the ones in this article! I can personally assure you that they are of high quality and have very positive reviews.

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Why not feed your curiosity with our posts on the fascinating health benefits of Olive Oil and Coconut Oil!

That’s it for this one, thank you so so much for reading, and have a wonderful day!

Until the next one, stay healthy

James