The Benefits of Black Seed Oil

To say black seed is good for you would be an understatement considering the value it has been given in ancient medicine. Black seed is scientifically known as nigella sativa. It belongs to the Ranunculacea (buttercup) family (1, 2). Did you know that black seed dates back to ancient Egypt? It was found in Pharaoh Tutankhamun's tomb.  

While there have been a few studies on the health benefits of this miracle seed, the benefits are undeniable. In Ancient Greece, it was used to treat headaches and pain. In Ancient Persia, it was used as an antifungal. Ayurvedic medicine suggests it enhances longevity and metabolism.

Black seed contains oils, proteins, carbohydrates, alkaloids, saponins, and essential oils (3). Its active compound is thymoquinone (TQ) which is said to be responsible for its benefits. TQ has the following benefits:

• Anti-inflammatory
• Antibacterial
• Anticonvulsant
• Antioxidant
• Anticarcinogenic
• Antifungal (3).

 

7 Benefits of Black Seed Oil

Contains Anti-inflammatory Property

When applied to the affected areas, black seed helps reduce itchiness, redness and irritation. Additionally, it may help ease arthritis by reducing pain and inflammation (4).

 

Rich in Antioxidants

The antioxidants in black seed oil help to eliminate free radicals (5). These antioxidants prevent oxidative stress in the skin and hair, and the pathogenesis of eczema (6, 7). They also prevent colon cancer cells, this may be why it is said to be anti-cancer (8). 

Immune System Support

Black seed oil increases immune system activity. It helps the body build further resistance. However, if you're taking immunosuppressants avoid black seed supplements. 

Promotes Hair Growth

Massage black seed oil into the scalp to soothe scalp irritation. Black seed hair care products prevent hair loss by increasing hair density, texture and thickness (9). The oil also helps prevent split ends (7).

 Acne and Eczema Treatment

Though there have been fewer studies, TQ is said to help with acne and eczema by reducing inflammation (10). It works by reducing pro-inflammatory cytokines and its antibacterial properties help with acne. 

Since eczema might cause itchiness and redness, try using black seed oil. It is also hydrating and nourishing for dry skin. Hydration helps strengthen the fragile hydrolipidic film and skin barrier (11).

Anti-ageing Effects

If something could stop ageing, it would be called nature's elixir. It’s important to note that black seed oil slows the appearance of wrinkles but doesn't necessarily stop ageing.

Black seed oil improves skin elasticity. Wrinkles appear when the skin loses firmness but the natural sagging of the skin happens when collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid naturally decrease (6).

Black seed's anti-ageing effects come from improving skin elasticity. In cases where wrinkles appear because of exposure to UV rays, black seed oil prevents the onset of fine dehydration lines.

 

How to Use Black Seed Oil

1. You can take black seeds in the form of a capsule.
2. Black seed can be found in facial, body, hair, and hygiene products. Do a patch test on your skin for allergic reactions.
3. Some people prefer mixing it with honey because of the bitter taste. Taking half a teaspoon of black seed oil and honey on an empty stomach boosts your well-being (12).
4. If you're inhaling, add a few drops to hot water. Inhalation helps with nasal congestion and asthma. However, do not replace an inhaler, seek medication, or conventional medicine with black seed oil if you've asthma.
5. Black seeds can be eaten raw, lightly toasted or added to cereals. When baking, add some to bagels. Another great way to enjoy them is to add to shakes. 

Remember that increasing the quantity doesn't affect the effect, so use it according to the recommended dosage.

What are the Interactions of black seed with other medications?

• If you're diabetic you might want to stay away from black seed oil as it might lower your blood sugar.
• Black seed oil slows down blood clotting. Individuals taking such medication should avoid using it because it can increase the risk of bleeding or bruising.
• Black seed oil might also lower your blood pressure, avoid using it when taking a blood-thinning medication as it may lower your blood pressure excessively.
• Black seed oil can also cause sleepiness and slower breathing. If you're taking sedatives stay clear from them or you might become too sleepy or slow down your breathing.
• It also reduces the levels of cyclosporine in the blood, black seed may increase the side effect if you're taking cyclosporine.
• Black seed can decrease potassium levels. If you're taking diuretic drugs you should avoid it.
• It also may increase serotonin and if you're taking serotonin pills you might end up with too much serotonin.
•  If you're taking medication converted or broken down by the liver, avoid black seed because it changes how quickly the liver converts the medication leading to increased side effects.
• If you're taking phenytoin used to control seizures avoid black seed as it can increase or decrease the levels of phenytoin in your blood thus causing side effects.
• Black seed reduces the level of sildenafil (viagra) thereby reducing the effects of the medication (13).

What are the side effects of using black seeds?

1. While many consider natural remedies harmless, plants have potential side effects.  Consuming large quantities of black seed oil does not increase its effects. The maximum daily dose should be 3 teaspoons per day (15g of seeds of 15ml of oil).
2. Black seed should not be a replacement for conventional medicine. Though it may contain anti-cancer properties, it is not advisable to rely on it.
3. Taking black seed is not recommended during pregnancy. Studies have shown that black seeds can slow down or stop the uterus from contracting. Some studies have shown that it improves milk production during lactation, but caution should be taken.
4. Do not consume black seed oil if you're about to have surgery or are taking an immunosuppressant. Black seed has blood-thinning and anti-clotting properties, which can cause excess bleeding.
5. Half the recommended dosage may be given to children, but it is not recommended for babies. Ideally, it is a great supplement for the elderly.
6. It's always best to consult healthcare professionals before considering it as a supplement. Though its importance is undeniable in ancient medicine, it's better to consult before consumption.
7. Be careful if you have kidney problems. Consult with your healthcare professionals before consumption.

 

Are there common allergic reactions to taking black seeds? 

The common allergic reactions to black seeds are: 

• Stomach upset
•  Nausea
• Bloating
• Rash
•  Itching
• Swelling.

Discontinue use if you're allergic or consult your healthcare provider.

 

Final Words

There are a few studies on the benefits of black seed oil, but its goodness from the medieval era is undeniable. Remember, natural doesn’t always mean safe. Use it with caution and speak with your healthcare provider. Try organic oil from reputable suppliers and explore other ways of harnessing its numerous benefits.

 

By: Monica Machera

Edited by: Damilola Elewa