Black seed oil derives from Nigella sativa, a small pale purple flower native to Eastern Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. It has been used to heal a laundry list of skin and health issues for centuries. In fact, the Bible mentions black seed in the book of Isaiah, labelling it an abundant commodity rich in its ability to treat nearly every disease, and King Tut was found with black seed oil buried alongside him in his tomb.
Black seed is also known as fennel flower, black cumin, black onion seed, black caraway, or kalonji and has a bitter taste similar to that of oregano or cumin. It can be used in cooking to flavor salads, smoothies, and meat dishes. But the place where black seed oil packs the most punch is when being used to promote health and wellness.
Black seed oil is rich in antioxidants, anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, and the oil aids in issues like eczema, immune deficiency disorders, and scar reduction.
Black Seed Oil: Beneficial to Your Health.
Black seed oil can act as a natural antibiotic. Its antimicrobial and anti-bacterial properties are strong enough to ward of bacterial infections. In fact, the oil has proven to be an anti-staphylococcal agent powerful enough to work against MRSA, a highly drug-resistant infection.
Below is only a small sample of conditions black seed oil can help treat.
Candida albicans
The antifungals found in black seed oil are so strong they defend against Candida albicans, an overabundance of yeast in the body.
Asthma and bronchitis
Black seed oil has been associated with alleviating symptoms associated with asthma and bronchitis. Its anti-inflammatory agents work to reduce inflammation and irritation in the air passages.
Cancer
Thymoquinone, an anticancer component of the black seed, has long been believed to reduce tumor growth and heal scar tissue from radiation. Topically, black seed oil can be applied to reduce the chances of developing skin cancer.
High cholesterol
Black seed oil contains the beneficial fatty acids oleic acid and linoleic acid. Consuming black seed oil has been found to support the reduction of high cholesterol levels.
Rheumatoid arthritis
When applied to the skin of those suffering from rheumatoid arthritis, the anti-inflammatory compounds in black seed oil has been reported to reduce pain associated with the condition.
Male fertility issues
Antioxidants found in black seed oil, especially thymoquinone, can improve sperm count, as well as the overall health of the male reproductive organs, in addition to several other male fertility issues.
Allergies
Black seed oil can help reduce nasal congestion and other sinus issues associated with allergies with its immune boosting, antihistamine, anti-inflammatory properties.
Diabetes
Black seed oil can control glucose levels, aide in inhibiting glucose’s absorption in the intestines, increase insulin sensitivity in the liver, which, in turn, prevents type 1 and type 2 diabetes.
Obesity and digestion issues
Black seed oil can aid in weight loss and a reduction in body mass index, especially when combined with turmeric. Black seed oil can also lessen symptoms associated with heartburn, indigestion, and dyspepsia.
Black Seed Oil: The Secret to Beautiful Skin
In addition to its ability to combat MRSA and skin cancer, black seed oil is used to treat other skin conditions and issues, as well.
Eczema
Black seed oil is gaining in popularity as a natural remedy for eczema, a chronic skin condition that causes red, itchy skin accompanied by swelling and blisters. The phytochemicals in black seed oil, coupled with its anti-inflammatory properties can soothe angry inflammation and redness. It also acts as a moisturizer, which can aid in alleviating itchiness associated with eczema.
Psoriasis
It is believed psoriasis may share a connection with leaky gut syndrome. Both are autoimmune conditions that deal with the inability to eliminate foreign entities from the body. For leaky gut, the intestines become permeable and allow unwanted food stuffs to enter the bloodstream. For psoriasis, it is an overproduction of skin cells the body cannot rid fast enough. Both cause inflammation, which is something black seed oil can help reduce and fight against.
Acne
As with eczema and psoriasis, symptoms of acne include red, irritated skin, in addition to clogged pores and a lack of moisture control. The anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory agents found in black seed oil can reduce redness, unclog pores, and hydrate skin.
The Beauty of Black Seed Oil
King Tut wasn’t the only one who knew the benefits of black seed oil. Nefertiti used black seed oil in her beauty regimen, and Cleopatra used the oil when she took a bath. Black seed oil is loaded with vitamins and fatty acids, therefore, making it an optimal addition to any beauty routine, especially for those looking to get away from products loaded with an overabundance of impossible to pronounce ingredients.
Age spots
The anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties found in the oil can be used as an anti-aging remedy. By applying the oil topically to acne and age spots, it can reduce discoloration, redness, and irritation.
Wrinkles and fine lines
The fatty acids in the oil can plump fine lines and wrinkles.
Hair health
Black seed oil works to improve hair health, as well. The oil contains nigellone, an antihistamine, that can fight dandruff and hair loss associated with alopecia.
Black seed oil is safe to ingest or apply, however, an allergic reaction is always possible. Try a patch test on the skin prior to using as a skin remedy or consult your naturopathic or regular physician prior to consuming, especially if already taking other medications. Those who are pregnant, have blood disorders, or low blood pressure should also use caution, as black seed oil can slow or stop uterine contractions, reduce blood clotting, and lower blood pressure and blood sugar.
