Black seed oil may have benefits such as lowering blood sugar levels, treating arthritis and other inflammatory conditions, and weight loss. Further research is needed to better understand the benefits of black seed oil, which has been used in traditional medicine for centuries.
Black seed oil is a supplement extracted from the seeds of Nigella sativa, also known as black cumin. This oil contains thymoquinone, an antioxidant phytochemical that helps rid the body of harmful particles called free radicals.
In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate supplements in the same way as prescription drugs. This means that some supplement products may not contain what is listed on the label. When choosing a supplement, look for third-party tested products and consult your health care provider, registered dietitian, nutritionist (RD or RDN), or pharmacist.
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Black seed oil benefits
Although research on the health effects of black seed oil is relatively limited, there is some evidence that it may offer potential benefits. Here we take a look at some of the key findings from the available research.
May lower blood sugar levels
Black seed oil may be beneficial for some people with type 2 diabetes.
Researchers reviewed four randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials involving people who consumed black seed as an oil, tea, or seed. Participants had lower fasting blood sugar levels. It is important to note that in most studies, black seed oil was taken in addition to the use of oral diabetes medications, a healthy diet, and exercise.
Another study showed that fasting blood sugar levels were significantly lower in the group that took black seed oil capsules compared to the placebo group.
May help rheumatoid arthritis
Black seed oil may help manage rheumatoid arthritis (RA), according to a small study published in Immunological Investigations in 2016.
In this randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study, 43 women with mild to moderate rheumatoid arthritis took black seed oil capsules or a placebo daily for one month. Compared to the placebo group, the group using black seed oil reported a reduction in the following symptoms:
Symptoms of arthritis (assessed by clinical rating scale) Blood levels of inflammatory markers Number of swollen joints
May reduce allergies and nasal irritation
Black seed oil can be used to treat allergies. For example, in a 2011 clinical trial of 66 people published in the American Journal of Otolaryngology, when participants used black seed oil for two weeks, they experienced relief from nasal symptoms such as:
Stuffy nose, itchy nose, runny nose, sneezing
Another report published in 2018 analyzed data to determine whether black seed oil can help treat sinusitis. The study authors concluded that this oil has multiple therapeutic effects, including:
Anti-inflammatory agents Antioxidants Antihistamines (block histamine and reduce allergies) Immunomodulators (those that affect the immune system) Antibacterial pain relievers (reduce pain without drowsiness)
May help with weight management
Research shows that black seed oil may reduce risk factors in obese women.
In this study, women took Nigella sativa oil or a placebo while following a low-calorie diet for eight weeks. At the end of the study, the group that took Nigella Sativa oil had further reduced levels of:
A review of several studies showed that black seed oil supplementation was moderately effective in reducing body weight and/or BMI.
May support acne treatment
Black seed oil applied directly to the skin as a hydrogel showed remarkable efficacy in improving acne symptoms without any side effects.
May help psoriasis
Clinical studies have shown that black seed oil and extracts have been helpful in treating chronic inflammatory skin diseases such as psoriasis. However, further research is needed to verify the effectiveness of black seed oil therapy for autoimmune skin problems.
May help treat eczema
Black seed oil has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-apoptotic (preventing cell death) properties. This makes it effective in treating inflammatory skin conditions such as eczema, which can cause infections and cause skin cells to turn over too quickly (resulting in the formation of scaly plaques).
May support hair health
Researchers have used nigella on hair in combination with other herbs in animal studies, but its effectiveness in humans has not yet been confirmed.
May fight inflammation
A comprehensive review of scientific reports in 2016 concluded that Nigella sativa has many therapeutic benefits, including anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and wound-healing properties. This result demonstrated that black seed oil has the potential to treat many inflammatory conditions.
May be useful in treating Hashimoto's thyroiditis
Data supports the powerful benefits of using powdered Nigella Sativa to improve Hashimoto's thyroiditis. According to a randomized controlled trial, Nigella sativa has a measurable effect on reducing symptoms of Hashimoto's disease and can be considered as a treatment for managing Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
May help fight metabolic syndrome
Metabolic syndrome (a group of five conditions that can lead to heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and other problems) responds well to treatment with black seed oil. One study in postmenopausal women concluded that Nigella sativa may be recommended to improve lipid profiles and blood sugar levels in women with metabolic syndrome.
May support heart health
Black seed oil may help lower lipid counts in patients with hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol and high triglycerides). Other studies have shown that black seed oil may be beneficial in lowering high blood pressure. Both hyperlipidemia and high blood pressure can lead to cardiovascular disease, so controlling them can help support heart health.
Other uses of black seed oil
In addition to the symptoms listed above, black seed oil has also been studied in human, laboratory, and animal studies for headaches and digestive disorders. However, further research is needed. Always consult your health care professional before using black seed oil.
black seed oil dosage
The typical intake of black seed oil is 1 to 5 grams per day orally for 4 to 12 weeks. Black seed powder is taken orally at 1-2 grams daily for 8-12 weeks.
Is black seed oil safe?
Black seed oil may not be safe for everyone. Do not consume by children or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding. Certain medications, herbs, and supplements can interact with oils. Always consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplements.
black seed oil side effects
Taking supplements like black seed oil can have potential side effects. Research has found the following risks associated with black seed oil:
Toxicity: A component of black seed oil known as melanthine can be toxic if ingested in large amounts. Allergic reactions: Applying black seed oil directly to the skin can cause an allergic skin rash known as allergic contact dermatitis in some people. Bleeding risk: Black seed oil may slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding. Avoid taking black seed oil if you have a bleeding disorder or are taking medications that affect blood clotting. Additionally, stop taking black seed oil at least two weeks before your scheduled surgery.
If you're considering taking black seed oil, talk to your health care provider. Black seed oil is not a substitute for conventional medicine. Do not stop taking any medicines without talking to your health care provider.
drug interactions
Black seed oil may interact with common medications such as:
Interactions of herbs and supplements
Black seed oil may also interact with common over-the-counter (OTC) herbs and supplements, including:
Blood pressure lowering: casein peptides, L-arginine, niacin, nettle Lowering blood sugar: aloe, bitter melon, cassia cinnamon, chromium, prickly pear Anticoagulants: garlic, ginger, ginkgo, nattokinase, panax ginseng OTC sedatives: hops, kava, L -Tryptophan, Melatonin, Valerian OTC Serotonin Agonists: 5-HTP, L-Tryptophan, SAMe, St. John's Wort Iron: Black seed oil may increase the amount of iron your body absorbs
summary
Some people use black seed oil supplements to treat certain health conditions, such as arthritis, allergies, asthma, and diabetes, or to maintain a healthy weight. Some studies support health claims, but most are small and more research is needed.
As a side note, the FDA does not regulate black seed oil. You should use it with caution and work with your health care provider to determine if it is right for you and at what dosage.
