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Black seed oil is a natural remedy with a long history of use. It offers anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and immune-boosting benefits as well as heart health support and improved digestion.
When shopping for a black seed oil product, look for one that is organic and cold-pressed. This ensures the highest thymoquinone potency.
It’s good for your hair
If you’ve ever read anything about growing your hair, chances are that it has included the ingredient black seed oil (also known as Nigella sativa or black cumin). It’s used in many products designed to promote healthy hair and scalp.
While there isn’t a lot of clinical research to support this claim, it is believed that black seed oil stimulates the hair follicles and helps with issues like dandruff, itching, flakiness and hair loss. Those with afro textured hair may find it especially helpful, as it can strengthen and moisturize the hair, improve shine, and reduce breakage.
However, it’s important to note that it may interfere with certain medications, including immune system-suppressing drugs and some heart medications. It can also increase the risk of seizures in some people. It’s best to avoid it if you have seizures or are pregnant or breastfeeding. It’s also important to note that it may take some time for you to see results, so consistency is key.
It’s good for your skin
Every so often, a new beauty ingredient takes the spotlight. It may be the latest serum packed with glycolic acid to help bust breakouts, or maybe it’s resveratrol for age-defying benefits. Now, black seed oil (aka black cumin seed oil) has entered the conversation as an all-around powerhouse with skin and hair-enhancing properties.
Black seed oil has a potent blend of anti-inflammatory, antiviral and antimicrobial components, which make it a powerful antidote to a host of ailments. The key ingredient is Thymoquinone, which has anti-bacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties.
Black seed oil can also soothe eczema, hydrate dry skin and promote cell regeneration. Plus, it can reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles by speeding up skin’s cellular turnover rate. It can even help repigment areas of the body affected by vitiligo, a autoimmune condition that causes patches of pigment loss on the skin. Just be sure to choose a 100% pure, therapeutic-grade product for best results.
It’s good for your heart
Black seed oil benefits the heart by lowering cholesterol and blood pressure levels. It also reduces neuroinflammation, which can increase the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease. This benefit is attributed to the thymoquinone found in black seed oil, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Studies have shown that consuming black seed oil can help with the symptoms of asthma by reducing inflammation and relaxing the muscles in the airway. Black seed oil is also effective in preventing cardiovascular diseases by reducing obesity and improving the metabolic profile.
However, since supplements aren’t regulated by the FDA, it’s important to work with a registered dietitian nutritionist or healthcare provider to ensure that you’re using it properly and at the right dose. Supplements should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet and lifestyle and should never replace prescribed medication. If you are on any medications, including anticoagulants (drugs that slow blood clotting), using black seed oil can cause too much thinning of the blood and can put you at a greater risk for bleeding and bruising.
It’s good for your sperm
Black seed oil’s thymoquinone and other plant compounds have been found to help treat male infertility. One randomized clinical trial showed that men with abnormal sperm who took 2.5 milliliters of black seed oil twice per day for two months experienced improvements in their sperm count, motility and morphology, as well as semen volume.
In addition, the antioxidant properties of black seed oil can reduce oxidative stress in sperm cells, which can lead to improved fertility. Research shows that thymoquinone can also stimulate the secretion of testosterone and follicle-stimulating hormone, which are both necessary for boosting fertility.
Black seed oil may also be effective in lowering blood pressure, according to a 2019 study. However, before you start taking it, consult a doctor to ensure that it won’t interfere with any medication you are currently taking. In addition, don’t exceed the recommended dosage. Too much can have adverse side effects, including diarrhea and abdominal pain. The ideal dosage for black seed oil is 2 to 3 grams daily.organic black seed oil