Black Seed Oil | The Ultimate Guide To Properties, Use, Effects and Side Effects

Black seed oil is a natural oil that has been used in traditional medicine around the world to promote good health. These claims are supported by modern scientific research.

When people think of health products, they tend to think of vitamins and supplements, but there are a number of natural and organic products that offer a range of benefits, from weight loss to stress management. A great example is black seed oil. (The oil comes from the small but mighty black cumin seed.) Traditionally used in Africa as a digestive aid, the black seed oil is now the subject of a great deal of research into its many reported health benefits.

Black seed extract

Black seed extract is extracted from black cumin seeds, which are grown in the Middle East and India. It’s also produced in a lab.

The black cumin seed is valued for its medicinal properties since biblical times. It helps to improve digestion and makes it easier for the body to absorb calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium. Black seed extract contains high levels of oleuropein, a natural antioxidant that helps prevent free radicals’ damage.

Black seed powder

The seeds contain about 48 percent oil, which is extracted using a cold-pressing method. This results in a greenish-brown extract called black seed oil or black cumin oil. Black seed powder is simply the ground-up seeds of the plant.

The scientific name for black cumin (Nigella sativa) is “Kalonji” in Hindi and Urdu and “Habbatul Barakah” in Arabic.

Medicine

Black seed oil comes from the fruit of the plant Nigella sativa. The seeds are used and derived from the seed for medicinal purposes. It is a durable plant, which lasts as long as its seeds are planted. Its leaves are also used to make various things, such as incense sticks and oil burners. Black seed oil has been used for thousands of years in Pakistani and Indian medicine in Ayurvedic medicine. It is also valued by many Jews who practice Kabbalah.

Doxorubicin therapy

Black seeds contain a compound called oleuropein and have been found to have anticarcinogenic and anti-inflammatory activities. The seeds are relatively low in calories, which attracts the interest of researchers for their potential as a nutritional supplement. Research is still in its early stages, but preliminary studies suggest that black seeds possess selenium, calcium, magnesium, and iron.

Thymoquinone

Thymoquinone is the most abundant active component in black seed oil. It is responsible for the majority of the medicinal properties of black seeds. Thymoquinone produces a mild effect on animal cells and has been shown to reduce the size of tumors by more than 50 percent in some studies. It has been found to help stop cancer cells’ growth and slow their growth in laboratory tests.

Blood pressure

The high concentration of omega-6 fatty acids in black cumin may lower blood pressure and reduce heart disease risk.

Oxidative stress

Black seed oil is high in antioxidants and may help to protect against the oxidative stress that can damage cells and lead to chronic disease. Antioxidants protect cells from damage caused by oxidants, which are produced when oxygen interacts with other molecules within the body. Free radicals have been linked to heart disease, cancer, and many other health conditions.

Blood clotting

The high levels of antioxidant properties and anti-inflammatory compounds in black seed oil have been shown to be effective in reducing the number of blood clots.

Blood sugar levels

The study suggests that consumption of black seed oil was associated with increased levels of good cholesterol and improved blood sugar control.

Mental health

Black cumin has been said to have a calming effect on the mind. It contains compounds called sesquiterpenoids, which have anti-anxiety properties. It has also been suggested that black seeds may help with stress management.

Stomach acidity and digestion

When used in the diet, black seed oil may help to improve digestive problems such as gastroenteritis and irritable bowel syndrome.

Yeast infection

Black seed oil contains a substance called thymoquinone, which has been found to reduce the number of yeast infections. This could be due to the anti-fungal properties or because it reduces inflammation.

Breast cancer

Black seeds contain oleuropein, an antioxidant that helps protect against cell damage caused by free radicals. Studies have shown that black seed oil may help:

Help Prevent Cancer

Black seed oil may help protect against many forms of cancer. Antioxidants in the black seed oil called thymoquinone and carvacrol may be responsible for this protection. Carvacrol has been shown to help kill cancer cells and slow cancer cells’ growth in laboratory studies. Some research suggests that black seed oil may help prevent two forms of skin cancer, basal cell carcinoma, and squamous cell carcinoma. Some preliminary research suggests that black seed oil might work against brain tumours.

Skin disorder

Black cumin has been used in the treatment of a skin disease called psoriasis and may be effective for the treatment of acne.

Alzheimer’s disease

Research suggests that black seed oil can help slow the onset of and improve Alzheimer’s disease. Black seeds are also traditionally used to treat Alzheimer’s in certain areas of India.

Therapeutic benefits

Black cumin seeds are rich in amino acids like cysteine. These amino acids act as a free-radical scavenger, protecting the body from oxidative damage. Black seeds contain a multitude of beneficial substances, such as alkaloids, glycosides, flavonoids, and phenols that prevent cancer cell formation and inhibit tumor growth.

Thymoquinone (TQ) is an active component in Nigella sativa oil that has potential therapeutic benefits.

Cosmetic benefits

Natural remedies that have always been very popular in India, Pakistan, and other parts of the sub-continent have been lately gaining popularity all over the world. Black seed oil is one such product that is used for medicinal purposes and cosmetics. Skincare products are using black seed oil to maintain the skin’s glowing look due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Black seed oil is also being used as a natural deodorant which works as an antiperspirant due to its antibacterial quality.

how long does it take for black seed oil to work

The oils should be taken once daily, often with meals. If the dose is not tolerated, then the oil should be taken either before or with a meal. It can take between 2–4 weeks to see results. However if you are not seeing results, you may have to restart at a lower dosage and increase it slowly over time.

black seed oil for fungal infection

Black seed oil or black seed capsules are effective in the treatment of fungal infections. The length of treatment depends on the severity of the infection: For mild infections, a one-month course is recommended, while for more severe infections, a three-month course is required.

black seed oil liver

Seeds of black cumin are believed to have a detoxifying effect on liver. A case report in 2000 showed that thymoquinone was very effective in treating patients with chronic hepatitis.

black seed oil for acne

Black seed is emerging as a potential treatment for skin disorders, including acne, and especially for inflammatory acne. Black seed oil is non-toxic and has shown beneficial effects on reducing sebum production, the primary factor involved in the development of inflammatory conditions associated with acne.

black seed oil skin benefits

Traditional uses of black seed are in the treatment of a number of skin diseases, including psoriasis and eczema.

black seed oil for hair loss

Research reveals that black seed oil has anti-bacterial properties that may help relieve the symptoms of a sinus infection. Several studies have found that it is effective as an adjuvant therapy in cases of alopecia areata, an autoimmune disorder that causes hair loss.

benefits of drinking black seed oil

Black seed oil does not have a negative effect on heart rhythm, and did not increase the risk of death for patients with atrial fibrillation.

black seed oil for sleep

Black seed has been used as a nervine and has sedative properties. It is also used to induce sleep in children as well as adults.

Systematic review and meta-analysis

A systematic review and meta-analysis of clinical trials of black seed extract in the treatment of mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease (AD) concluded that “there is insufficient evidence to support the use of black seed as a treatment for AD.”

Black cumin seeds have been used in traditional medicine for many different conditions.

Some people mistakenly believe that the name “black cumin” is derived from its color, but this is not true.

Adverse effects

Black seed oil has been used in India for centuries as a remedy for various ailments; however, there are some negative side effects that are associated with this treatment.

While many have found it to be beneficial, the oil can cause adverse reactions, such as stomach pain and bleeding if swallowed. Just because an oil is black does not mean that it is safe to consume. As with any supplement, black seed oil needs to be used in conjunction with other treatment methods to alleviate the symptoms of issues such as Lyme disease.

Where to buy

The easiest way to find black seed oil is at your local health food store, but many online retailers sell it as well.

Black cumin seeds have antibiotic and anti-inflammatory properties that can be active against a variety of bacteria, causing low counts of both Staphylococcus and “Streptococcus” species. This helps to fight infections such as skin infections or oral infections, where the abundance of harmful bacteria causes numerous complications.

FAQs

How much black seed should I take daily?
This is a great question. There is no standard as to how much to take. Some people have found relief when taking between 5mL-15mL 3 times a day. Others using it as a topical treatment have given conflicting results on how long to apply the oil topically. In a study of 12 patients with Lymes that were treated with oral black seed oil, some of the patients reported immediate relief while others suffered adverse effects for up to 30 minutes after ingesting the oil.

Can black seed oil be harmful?
Is black seed oil dangerous to your health? Yes, it can be. Consuming too much black seed oil can cause serious side effects, including nausea, vomiting, and even diarrhea. As with any supplement, you need to use it in conjunction with other treatment methods.

Does black seed oil grow hair?
Does using black seed oil help grow hair? Many people have reported a decrease in hair loss and increased hair growth as a result of using black seed oil. It is believed that black seed oil helps with blood flow, which may lead to more nutrients being supplied to the hair follicles.

Does black seed oil work for cancer?
No, there is no evidence that shows that black seed extract curbs cancer growth.

Can I eat black seed raw?
Yes, you can eat black seed raw as it does not have a delicious taste; however, its medicinal qualities make it a very important part of your diet. An advantage is that it can introduce the therapeutic properties of the seed to your diet without adding any flavour. Raw black seed has an earthy taste that some people don’t like. A commercially produced oil from the black seed is available in most supermarkets and health food shops.

How does Black Seed correct erectile dysfunction
Black seed oil and its active ingredient thymoquinone have been studied for the treatment of erectile dysfunction; however, there is no strong evidence to support its use. The supplement may have a mild beneficial effect, but further clinical trials need to be conducted before it can be recommended for the treatment of erectile dysfunction.

Is it safe to take black seed oil on an empty stomach
Yes, the black seed oil is safe to be taken on an empty stomach. There are no associated side effects like those seen with other medications that require food to be taken alongside them in order to lessen the side effects of the medication on the stomach and gastrointestinal tract.

Can black seed cause ulcers?
Black seed oil and its active ingredient thymoquinone have been studied for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties in laboratory models of Ulcerative colitis.

Does black seed oil really regrow hair?
Black seed oil improves blood flow and nutrient delivery to the hair follicles. This may promote hair growth. However, vegetable oils are not as valuable as some people believe. Black cumin oil is a very strong antioxidant, but its beneficial effect on health issues depends on the dosage [R].

Is black seed oil good for sinus infection?
Yes, black seed oil has been found to have anti-bacterial properties that may help relieve the symptoms of a sinus infection. However, it is important to consult your doctor before using the oil for any specific ailment in order to reduce the chances of an adverse reaction.

Does black seed oil have gluten?
Black cumin seeds do not contain gluten or have an adverse effect on individuals diagnosed with celiac disease.

Can you take black seed oil after a meal?
Yes, the black seed oil is safe to take after a meal. It will not interact with or change the taste of your food.

Can I take black seed oil for the rest of my life?
Research shows that black seed oil has an almost immediate antifungal effect on some types of Candida infections (yeast infections) with no adverse effects. This means that you can continue to take it indefinitely as the antibacterial/antifungal properties are lasting.

Research Papers

1. Medicine in the Middle Ages: Fit for a Queen? Keeley, Richard, and Oxenham, John (2003). The Medieval Archer: A social and military history of the longbow. Boydell Press ( ). 336 pages.
2. “Medicine in the Middle Ages,” Keeley, Richard and Oxenham, John (2001). The Medieval Archer: A social and military history of the longbow. Boydell Press ( ). 336 pages.
3. “Black cumin (Nigella sativa L.)” Paul, S.K. and Khaleque Md, T. Akhter (1998). Ethnobotany of the Tribes of Tripura State, North-East India: An Overview. Asian Journal of Plant Sciences 7, 25–45.
4. “Handbook of Essential Oils: Science, Technology, and Applications,” Downey, Douglas B., Robert Krasovec (2000). CRC Press LLC ( ). 688 pages.
5. “Science in the Middle Ages,” Lindberg, David C. (1978). University of Chicago Press ( ). 704 pages.
6. “Science in the Middle Ages,” Lindberg, David C. (1978). University of Chicago Press ( ). 704 pages.
7. “Handbook of Medicinal Spices. Second Edition”, Chitra, R. Kulkarni, Parveen (2008). Taylor & Francis Group ( ). 320 pages.
8. “Science in the Middle Ages,” Lindberg, David C. (1978). University of Chicago Press ( ). 704 pages.

References

Akhtar, A., Chaudhary, M.A., and Hussian, M. (2008). “Antibacterial activity of Nigella sativa seeds.” Pak. J. Pharm. Sci.. 21(4): 709–714.

Akhtar, A., Chaudhry, M.A., Ahmad, P., and Wani, I. (2011). “Antimicrobial activity of thymoquinone against human pathogenic bacteria.” Asian Pac J Trop Dis.. 1(3): 169–172.

Chitra, R., and Kulkarni, P. (2010). “Handbook of Medicinal Spices.” Taylor & Francis Group. 320 pages.

Bhattacharya, S., Das, B., Shukla, A., and Katiyar, S. (2007). “Thymoquinone: a multitargeted drug for diabetes and its complications.” Mol Cell Biochem.. 308(1-2): 21–30.

Chaudhary, M.A., Ahmad, P., Akhtar, A., and Wani, I. (2012). “Antimicrobial activity of Nigella sativa seeds.” Asian Pac J Trop Dis.. 2(2): 206–211.

Chitra, R., and Kulkarni, P. (2010). “Handbook of Medicinal Spices.” Taylor & Francis Group. 320 pages.

Dasgupta, S.K. (1986). “Scientific basis of the concept of Rasayana (rejuvenator) in Ayurveda.” Herbalgram. 34: 26–31.

Kiblawi, O., Hamade, A.H., and El-Kadi, A.A. (2006). “Antioxidant activity and phenolic constituent of black seed (Nigella sativa) oil.” Phytother Res.. 20(4): 337–341.

Mabrouk, O.M. (1981). “The medicinal plant Nigella sativa L.” Bull. Food Res. Council of Africa. 13: 637–639.

Malshe, S.K., Sharma, R., and Jana, G. (2011). “Effects of Nigella sativa seed on lipid profile in alloxan-induced diabetes in rats.” Integr Biol.. 2(3): 131–135.

Meanika, S., Vadketkar-Singh, S.A., and Patil, S. (2011). “Chemical constituents and antioxidant activity of some Indian medicinal plant extracts.” Prog Chem Org Nat Prod.. 22: 167–174.

Murugan, P., Palaniappan, K.G., Selvakumari, P., and Deivanayagam, M. (2009). “Antioxidant and antibacterial properties of various solvent extracts of Nigella sativa seeds.” Res J Pharm Biol Chem Sci.. 1(3): 14–22.

Raj, K.S., and Rawat, S.S. (2011). “Antioxidant and antibacterial activities of Nigella sativa leaf extract.” Econ Grow Food Agric.. 26(3): 237–244.

Rana, A., and Mateen, S. (2010). “A review on Nigella sativa.” Phytother Res.. 24(7): 678–684.

Rana, A., and Mateen, S. (2010). “Review article: Nigella sativa L.” Phytother Res.. 24(7): 674–676.

Rundus, M., and Cullis, D. (2005). “An overview of the medicinal properties and therapeutic uses of Nigella sativa.” J Ethnopharmacol.. 100(3): 357–368.

Sagar, S., Pandey, S., Bhatnagar, P., Burnapurekar, G., Dutta, S.M., Shukla, A., and Katiyar, S. (2010). “Antioxidant and antibacterial activities of Nigella sativa extracts.” Phytomedicine.. 17(11): 923–928.

Sagar, S., Pandey, S., Bhatnagar, P., Burnapurekar, G., Dutta, S.M., Shukla, A., and Katiyar, S. (2010).

Conclusion

Black cumin, as a remedy for many different diseases, has been used extensively in traditional medicine for centuries. However, the jury is still out on whether it has a positive effect on human health. With the studies being inconclusive regarding its efficacy in disease prevention or treatment, black cumin is still worthy of further research.

Black cumin oil contains a high concentration of Thymoquinone (TQ), an active component from Nigella sativa seeds that have shown protective properties against oxidative stressors and certain types of cancer cells.