black seed
Julie Hambleton
Julie Hambleton
February 4, 2024 ·  9 min read

The Health Benefits of Black Seed Oil


Black seed oil, from the seeds of the Nigella sativa plant, has a more than 2,000 year-old history for its medicinal uses. Grown in Asia, Pakistan, and Iran, it has been called “the remedy for everything but death”. Its potential health benefits are now being increasingly recognized by modern science, making it a popular supplement in the form of pills. In this article, we will delve into the importance of using black seed oil pills daily and explore the scientific research supporting their potential health benefits.

What Is Black Seed Oil and Where Does It Come From?

Black seed oil is the oil extracted from the seeds of the Nigella sativa plant in Asia, Pakistan, and Iran. The seeds have a rich history in traditional medicine, with records of their use dating back to ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Islamic civilizations. They have been traditionally employed for a wide range of health issues, such as respiratory, digestive, and skin conditions.

The health benefits of black seed oil are primarily attributed to its unique blend of bioactive compounds. The most notable of these are thymoquinone (TQ), thymohydroquinone (THQ), and thymol. These compounds exhibit potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties, which are responsible for many of the therapeutic effects of black seed oil. (1)

The actual research on black seed oil is relatively limited. Most of what we know of it as a remedy is based on anecdotal accounts dating back for many, many years. These are some of the ailments that it has shown to at least be somewhat helpful.

We love New Roots Herbal Black Cumin Seed Oil pills since they don’t have the bite that cold-pressed oil would have. It also yields a high dose of thymoquinone. New Roots ensures that all ingredients that enter their facility are tested three times over for identity, contaminants such as mycotoxins (aflatoxins), PCBs, over 80 different pesticides, heavy metals, microbiology (bacteria), mold, and fungus thus ensuring the highest quality. Get your 30 day supply (60 soft gels) at The Health Shop for $30.99 while supplies last!

Type 2 Diabetes

According to a 2017 review, researchers have found that black seed oil could be helpful for patients with Type 2 Diabetes. Their study involved participants taking either black seed oil, tea, or the actual seeds themselves. The results showed that those who took the oil saw a decrease in their fasting blood glucose levels. It is important to note, however, that these people were still taking their diabetes medications in conjunction with healthy lifestyle changes. More than one study has found that this oil helps to reduce fasting blood glucose levels. Again, most of these were taken still alongside regular diabetes treatment. (2)

Allergies

Allergies and nasal inflammation affect millions of people around the world. Studies have shown that black seed oil helps to reduce nasal congestion, runny nose, itchy nose, and sneezing. Reports show that it has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antihistaminic, antimicrobial, and analgesic effects. This makes it effective against sinusitis, and inflammation of the sinuses. (3, 4)

Read: Be Ready for Winter: Make Instant Pot Elderberry Syrup In 20 Minutes

Rheumatoid arthritis

There have been some studies showing that black seed oil can help ease the painful symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. After one month of taking the oil in capsule form, patients reported a reduction in arthritis symptoms, blood levels of inflammatory markers, and their number of swollen joints. (5)

Obesity Risk Factors

There are many health risks that come along with obesity. A study done on obese women revealed that taking Nigella sativa oil in conjunction with a low-calorie diet helped the women to lose more weight, further decrease their waist circumference, and also reduce their triglyceride levels. (6) Another study found that when you add in an exercise routine, these benefits increase even more. They also found that with exercise, cholesterol levels went down. (7)

Boosts Immunity

One of the essential benefits of incorporating black seed oil pills into your daily regimen is their ability to support a healthy immune system. Research suggests that the active compounds in black seed oil can stimulate the production of immune cells, such as T-cells, natural killer cells, and macrophages. This, in turn, enhances the body’s natural defense mechanisms against infections and diseases.

Anti-inflammatory Effects

Chronic inflammation is a contributing factor to several health conditions, including heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes. The anti-inflammatory properties of black seed oil have been widely studied, with research showing that its active compounds, particularly thymoquinone, can inhibit the release of pro-inflammatory molecules in the body. Daily supplementation with black seed oil pills may help manage inflammation and reduce the risk of associated health issues.

Antioxidant Properties

Oxidative stress, caused by an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants, can lead to cellular damage and contribute to various diseases. Black seed oil is a potent source of antioxidants that can neutralize free radicals and protect cells from damage. By incorporating black seed oil pills into your daily routine, you can support your body’s natural defense mechanisms against oxidative stress and promote overall health.

Supports Respiratory Health

Black seed oil has been traditionally used to treat respiratory conditions, such as asthma and bronchitis. Its anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory effects can help reduce airway inflammation and improve lung function. Regular consumption of black seed oil pills may provide relief from respiratory symptoms and improve overall respiratory health.

Promotes Healthy Blood Sugar Levels

Research suggests that black seed oil can help regulate blood sugar levels, making it a potentially beneficial supplement for individuals with diabetes or those at risk of developing the condition. The hypoglycemic effects of black seed oil are attributed to its ability to improve insulin sensitivity and stimulate the release of insulin from the pancreas. By taking black seed oil pills daily, you can support healthy blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of diabetes-related complications.

Supports Heart Health

Black seed oil has been shown to have cardioprotective effects, making it a valuable supplement for maintaining heart health. Its ability to reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure, and decrease cholesterol levels can all contribute to a reduced risk of heart disease. Incorporating black seed oil pills into your daily regimen may help support a

We love New Roots Herbal Black Cumin Seed Oil pills since they don’t have the bite that cold-pressed oil would have. It also yields a high dose of thymoquinone. New Roots ensures that all ingredients that enter their facility are tested three times over for identity, contaminants such as mycotoxins (aflatoxins), PCBs, over 80 different pesticides, heavy metals, microbiology (bacteria), mold, and fungus thus ensuring the highest quality. Get your 30 day supply (60 soft gels) at The Health Shop for $30.99 while supplies last!

Selecting the Right Black Seed Oil Pills: A Comprehensive Guide

With a plethora of black seed oil pills available on the market, choosing the right one can be a daunting task. To ensure that you are making an informed decision and getting the most out of your supplement, follow these essential tips for selecting the right black seed oil pills.

Quality of Ingredients
The effectiveness of black seed oil pills largely depends on the quality of the ingredients used. Look for supplements that use high-quality, pure Nigella sativa seed oil without any added fillers or artificial ingredients. Some manufacturers may add unnecessary additives to cut costs, which could compromise the quality and potency of the product.

Extraction Method
The extraction method used to obtain the oil from the seeds plays a critical role in preserving its bioactive compounds. Cold-pressed extraction is considered the best method, as it does not involve the use of heat or solvents, which can degrade the oil’s nutrients. Choose a product that specifies that it has been cold-pressed to ensure that you are getting the most potent and pure black seed oil.

Standardized Thymoquinone Content
Thymoquinone is the primary active compound responsible for many of the health benefits associated with black seed oil. When selecting a supplement, look for products that clearly state the standardized thymoquinone content, ideally between 1% and 3%. A standardized product ensures that you are getting a consistent dose of the active compound with each pill, allowing for more effective results.

Packaging and Storage
Black seed oil is sensitive to light, heat, and air, which can cause it to oxidize and lose its potency over time. Choose a product that is packaged in a dark or opaque container, preferably made of glass or a high-quality, non-reactive plastic material. Additionally, make sure to store your black seed oil pills in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight, to maintain their effectiveness.

Dosage and Serving Size
Pay attention to the dosage and serving size of the black seed oil pills. The recommended daily dosage can vary depending on the concentration of the product and the intended health benefits. Generally, a daily dose of 500-1000 mg of black seed oil is considered safe and effective for most individuals. However, always consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications.

Third-Party Testing and Certifications
To ensure that you are getting a high-quality, safe, and effective product, look for black seed oil pills that have undergone third-party testing. Independent laboratories can verify the purity, potency, and safety of the supplement, providing an added layer of assurance. Additionally, certifications such as Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP), United States Pharmacopeia (USP), or NSF International can further attest to the quality and safety of the product.

By following these guidelines, you can confidently choose the right black seed oil pills to incorporate into your daily health routine and reap the numerous benefits they have to offer.

We love New Roots Herbal Black Cumin Seed Oil pills since they don’t have the bite that cold-pressed oil would have. It also yields a high dose of thymoquinone. New Roots ensures that all ingredients that enter their facility are tested three times over for identity, contaminants such as mycotoxins (aflatoxins), PCBs, over 80 different pesticides, heavy metals, microbiology (bacteria), mold, and fungus thus ensuring the highest quality. Get your 30 day supply (60 soft gels) at The Health Shop for $30.99 while supplies last!

Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and is for information only. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about your medical condition and/or current medication. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking advice or treatment because of something you have read here.

Sources

  1. Review on Clinical Trials of Black Seed (Nigella sativa ) and Its Active Constituent, Thymoquinone.” PubMed. Alireza Tavakkoli, et al. September 2017.
  2. Effect of Nigella sativa oil supplement on risk factors for cardiovascular diseases in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.” Wiley. Akram Kooshki, et al. June 8,2020.
  3. Herbal treatment of allergic rhinitis: the use of Nigella sativaScience Direct. Soheila Nikakhlagh MD., September–October 2011.
  4. Natural therapeutic approach of Nigella sativa (Black seed) fixed oil in management of Sinusitis.” Science Direct. Mohaddese Mahboubi. March 2018.
  5. Immunomodulatory Effect of Nigella sativa Oil on T Lymphocytes in Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis.” Taylor Francis Online. Sorayya Kheirouri, et al. April 21, 2016.
  6. Effects of Nigella sativa oil with a low-calorie diet on cardiometabolic risk factors in obese women: a randomized controlled clinical trial.” Royal Society of Chemistry. Reza Mahdavi, et al. 2015.
  7. The Effects of 8-week Nigella sativa Supplementation and Aerobic Training on Lipid Profile and VO2 max in Sedentary Overweight Females.” NCBI. Esmail Farzaneh, et al. 2014.
  8. Phytochemistry, pharmacology, and therapeutic uses of black seed (Nigella sativa).” Science Direct. Wesam Kooti, et al. October 2016.
  9. Comparative study of Nigella Sativa and triple therapy in eradication of Helicobacter Pylori in patients with non-ulcer dyspepsia.” Saudi Journal of Gastro Enterology. Eyad M Salem, et al. 2010.
  10. Effect of Topical Application of Black Seed Oil on Imiquimod-Induced Psoriasis-like Lesions in the Thin Skin of Adult Male Albino Rats.” American Association for Anatomy. Ebtsam F. Okasha, et al. September 19, 2017.
  11. Review: Nigella sativa (Prophetic Medicine): A Review.” NCBI. Hira Ijaz, et al. January 2017.
  12. Allergic contact dermatitis from black cumin (Nigella sativa) oil after topical use.” Wiley. Alexander Steinmann, et al. April 2006