What is Black Seed Oil?
Black seed oil is an oil derived by pressing the seeds of the Nigella Sativa plant. The seeds are also commonly referred to as black cumin. The nutrient-rich oil of black seed has been used for hundreds of years in the Middle East and South Asia as a natural remedy for a variety of ailments.
What are the Benefits of Black Seed Oil?
Studies have shown that black seed oil is an effective anti-oxidant, anti-bacterial, and anti-inflammatory remedy. As a result, it is often used to fight infections and strengthen the immune system, which is suitable for treating the following conditions:
- headaches
- toothaches
- nasal congestion
- colds and flus
- infections
- digestive and gastrointestinal problems
- hair and skin problems
- allergies
- inflammation
- diabetes
Black seed oil has also been found to be effective at promoting menstruation, increasing milk production and facilitating erection in men. According to a few studies it may also help in the treatment of different types of cancers and HIV. However, more studies are required to determine its efficacy and dosage. For most ailments, the recommended daily dosage is 1/4 teaspoon of black seed oil per day. The oil can be mixed in warm or cold drinks, or it can be added on top of many foods right before consuming. It can also be used topically for backaches and arthritis and as a chest rub for respiratory problems.
Uses of Black Seed Oil
Allergies
Black Seed Oil acts as an antihistamine which helps to reduce the common symptoms of allergies (watery eyes, sneezing). Simply take a 1/4 teaspoon of oil when allergy symptoms begin to appear.
Flu and Fever
Black Seed Oil has been found to help reduce fever, by inducing perspiration which helps the body cool and stimulate the release of toxins. Take 1/4 teaspoon of Black Seed Oil once a day when flu/fever systems occur. Also be sure to drink plenty of fluids throughout the day.
Boils and Carbuncles
Studies have shown that the anti-fungal properties of Black Seed Oil and its active component Thymoquinone help strengthen the immune system and cure many common skin infections including boils and carbuncles. Simply take a quarter teaspoon of Black Seed Oil twice daily (you can mix it into a hot or cold beverage).
Cough and Asthma Relief
The anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties of Black Seed Oil help treat the symptoms of acute asthma and coughs by relaxing bronchial muscles. For asthma, mix a teaspoon of Black Seed Oil in boiling water and inhale the vapor twice a day. For dry coughs, mix a quarter teaspoon of Black Seed Oil into a cup of ginger tea and drink this twice a day. For other types of coughs, massage a small amount of the oil over the center of your chest.
Diarrhea
Black seed oil is also an effective natural remedy for diarrhea.
High Blood Pressure
The active ingredients in black seed oil have been found to be effective in reducing high blood pressure.
Insomnia
Studies have shown that Black Seed Oil can help eliminate sleep disorders. Simply mix quarter to half a teaspoon of black seed oil into a hot drink one hour before bed time for a good night’s sleep.
Muscle Cramps and Spasms
Black Seed Oil has been found to contain strong anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory ingredients. Therefore, it is effective at preventing or easing muscle spasms and cramps. Simply massage Black Seed Oil onto the affected area once in the morning and once before going to bed. You can alternatively add half a teaspoon of Black Seed Oil in a cup of chamomile tea and drink it at night.
Nausea and Upset Stomach
Studies have shown that Black Seed Oil acts as a wonderful remedy for stomach ailments by stimulating digestion and inducing the expulsion of gas. For nausea and upset stomachs, mix half a teaspoon of fresh ginger juice with a quarter teaspoon of Black Seed Oil and drink this twice a day.
Toothaches
Black seed oil’s anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties are great for treating toothaches. Simply mix a pinch of clove powder in half a teaspoon of black seed oil and dip a tiny cotton ball in it and press it on the aching tooth or place it by the infected gum.
What are the Side Effects of Black Seed Oil?
There are no known adverse side effects of Black Seed Oil if it is taken moderately. It should not be consumed for longer period of time. Drinking plenty of water is recommended while taking Black Seed oil. However, it is not recommended for use during pregnancy.
Where and How to Buy Black Seed Oil
Black seed oil is available at most health food stores, as well as through online shops (see below). The oil should appear dark yellow or amber in colour. It can also be found in seed form or as capsules.
References
- Aftab Ahmad, Asif Husain, Mohd Mujeeb, Shah Alam Khan, Abul Kalam Najmi, Nasir Ali Siddique, Zoheir A. Damanhouri, and Firoz Anwar. “A review on therapeutic potential of Nigella sativa: A miracle herb“. May 2013; 3(5): 337–352.
- Md Asaduzzaman Khan, Han-chun Chen, corresponding author Mousumi Tania, and Dian-zheng Zhang. “Anticancer Activities of Nigella Sativa (Black Cumin)“. 2011; 8(5 Suppl): 226–232.
- Abdulfatah Adekunle Onifade, corresponding author Andrew Paul Jewell, and Waheed Adeola Adedeji. “Nigella Sativa Concoction Induced Sustained Seroreversion in HIV Patient“. 2013; 10(5): 332–335.
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