Fennel flower, Black seeds, or black cumin or black cumin seed, also known as Nigella Sativa (n-sativa), is an ancient remedy-of-choice and medicinal plant secret that has been gaining more attention lately due to its wide range of applications and health benefits.
From treating digestive problems and reducing high blood pressure levels to promoting skin protection from environmental damage – black seed oil offers many therapeutic advantages!
In this blog post, we will discuss the black seeds benefits for overall well-being — highlighting the science behind why nigella sativa supplementation is revered by many.
Black Cumin Seed: What Are They and Where Do They Come From
Nigella sativa or black cumin seed is a flowering plant widely used as a spice. It was discovered in southeastern Asia and was used in ancient Egypt, Africa, Greece, and the middle east.
Black seed oil is known for its potential health benefits, particularly its anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties. Nigella sativa oil has been shown to improve cholesterol levels, reduce inflammation in the body, and high blood pressure, and even enhance the immune system. In addition, black seed oil contains thymoquinone, a compound thought to have anti-cancer properties. Though research is ongoing, the potential health benefits of black seed oil have made it a popular supplement in modern medical practice.
Nutritional Facts for Black Cumin Oil
Black cumin seeds contain over 100 identified chemical compounds and are packed with the following nutrients. Adding black seed to your meals; whether you sprinkle black seed supplements on your salads or mix it into your smoothies, is an effective way to lower blood pressure, and blood sugar levels, reap numerous health benefits, and reduce the chances of contracting a chronic illness.
- Beta-sitosterol
- Amino acids
- Phytosterols
- Thymoquinone
- Omega-6 and omega-9 essential fatty acids
- Vitamins B1, B2, B3
- Folic acid
- Calcium
- Copper
- Zinc
- Iron
- Phosphorus
Health Benefits of Black Cumin Seed
In old Latin, these seeds are referred to as ‘Panacea’ meaning cure-all, and in Arabic, they are referred to as ‘Habbah Sawda’ which means seeds of blessing. True to these names, the seeds and oil extracted from black cumin have numerous health benefits.
Black Seeds Have Anti-Inflammatory Properties
One of the remarkable properties of Nigella sativa or black cumin seed is its anti-inflammatory effect, which helps reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is a natural response of the immune system to protect the body from pathogens, toxins, and other harmful substances. However, chronic inflammation can lead to various diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes.
N-Sativa contains several compounds with anti-inflammatory properties, such as thymoquinone, thymohydroquinone, and thymol. These compounds inhibit the production of inflammatory molecules in the body, thus inhibiting chronic inflammation.
Black Seeds Improve Respiratory Functions
Among the many benefits, the oil is renowned for boosting respiratory health. They contain a particular ingredient known as thymoquinone, which has been shown to have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties. These properties make black cumin oil an excellent natural remedy for respiratory ailments such as bronchitis, allergic asthma, and sinusitis.
By reducing inflammation and opening constricted airways, black seed oil can help improve breathing and overall respiratory function.
NIGELLA SATIVA Seeds are Anti-oxidative
Black cumin oil has anti-oxidative properties. N-Sativa contains several bioactive compounds like thymoquinone, which are potent antioxidants. Antioxidants aid in neutralizing free radicals that cause damage to our cells, DNA, and tissues.
Black seed oil can also prevent chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and cancer by lowering oxidative stress in the body. This property is known to improve overall well-being, enhance immune function and reduce inflammation.
Black Cumin Seed Natural Remedies
Even though the molecular mechanisms behind black cumin oil’s effectiveness are not yet fully understood, fennel flowers have been used as a natural remedy for centuries. The thymoquinone and crude oil extract in black seed oil is known to be particularly effective for treating kidney, and lung, and inhibiting tumor growth.
Black Cumin for Cancer Treatment
Studies have shown black seed oil and black seed powder inhibit the growth of cancer cells through their anti-inflammatory effects. The black seed oil also helps to fight cancer by increasing the growth of bone marrow and immune cells. Nigella sativa is anti-proliferative, pro-apoptotic, cytotoxic, anti-mutagenic, anti-metastatic, and antioxidant properties.
For those exploring it for its anti-tumor properties, research indicates that the active component in black cumin seed oil, thymoquinone can inhibit cancer cell proliferation. It can also lead to the death of cancer cells. Black seed oil can be taken orally or applied topically; depending on the cancer type and location. In a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled test, N-sativa was found to reduce prostate cancer cells, colon cancer cells, and pancreatic cancer cells.
Black Seed for Rheumatoid Arthritis
Rheumatoid Arthritis can be an extremely painful chronic disease that causes inflammation in the joints. Living with it can be a challenge because it affects everyday activities. Black seed oil is an essential oil rich in antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it a popular oil for managing Rheumatoid Arthritis symptoms. The oil’s active compound, thymoquinone, has been shown to reduce swelling and stiffness in joints, making movement less painful. Black seed oil can also boost the immune system, which is beneficial to people with Rheumatoid Arthritis since the disease affects the immune system. Studies have shown that black seed oil can be an effective remedy for relieving Rheumatoid Arthritis symptoms. Black cumin is easy to use and can be incorporated into daily routines by adding it to meals or applying it topically.
Black Seeds for Asthma
Asthma is a chronic respiratory disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Although there is no cure for asthma, some remedies can help to reduce symptoms, including shortness of breath, wheezing, and chest tightness. One such remedy is the black seed, which has been used for centuries in traditional medicine to treat a variety of ailments. Black seeds contain thymoquinone, a compound that has anti-inflammatory properties and helps to relax the muscles in the airways, making it easier to breathe.
The oil extracted from this black cumin acts as a bronchodilator, relaxing the muscles around the bronchioles of the lung, which in turn allows for easier breathing. While black cumin is no substitute for medical treatment, incorporating black seed into a daily routine can be a powerful complementary treatment option.
Consuming black cumin seeds in different forms as tea, oil, or ground seeds, has been proven effective in managing asthma symptoms. Research has shown that black seed oil can significantly improve lung function in people with asthma, reducing the frequency and severity of attacks.
Furthermore, nigella sativa oil can also help boost the immune system, essential for preventing respiratory infections that can trigger asthma symptoms.
Black Seeds for Infertility Treatment
Recently, the potential of nigella sativa oil as a natural infertility treatment has been explored in human studies. These trials have shown promising results, with black seed oil being found to improve sperm count, motility, and overall reproductive health in both men and women. The black cumin seeds contain compounds such as thymoquinone and alpha-herein, which are known to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These properties may be responsible for the positive effects on fertility observed in studies. While more research is needed to fully understand the potential of nigella sativa for infertility treatment, the current evidence suggests that it may be a safe and effective option for couples struggling with infertility.
Black Seeds for Diabetes MELLITUS Treatment
Recent clinical trials have shown that nigella sativa seeds could be a game-changer for those with type II diabetes mellitus. This is because black cumin seeds contain compounds such as thymoquinone and polyunsaturated fatty acids, which have been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects, improve insulin sensitivity, and lower blood sugar levels. A 2017 study found that taking black seed supplements for three months improved fasting blood glucose levels and HbA1c (a measure of long-term blood sugar control) in patients with type II diabetes.
Black seed oil was tried out on streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats and the extended trial showed lower blood sugar levels, blood lipids, and LDL cholesterol. These findings have led many researchers to suggest that nigella sativa seeds could be an effective and natural way to manage diabetes mellitus.
Uses of Black Cumin Seed Oil for Skin and Hair Care
Apart from being a promising natural remedy for treating chronic illnesses, and other medicinal benefits black cumin seeds have also found application in the beauty industry as a solution for healthier skin and hair. It is believed to be the well-kept secret of ancient beauties like Cleopatra and Nefer.
Black Seed Oil for Hair
Black seed oil and black seed extract have been used for centuries to improve hair health and maintenance. It is reported to be great with coconut oil in promoting hair growth. A 2013 study even showed significant improvement for women experiencing hair thinning. The many benefits of nigella sativa seeds include the following:
- Black seeds’ anti-inflammatory, anti-fungal, and anti-bacterial properties help to maintain scalp health and combat issues like itchy and flaky scalp or dandruff.
- Black seed oil nourishes and strengthens the hair follicles to prevent hair loss and breakage.
- It also contains antihistamines (nigellone and thymoquinone) which help to promote hair regrowth by increasing blood flow to the scalp and stimulating cell regeneration.
- Linoleic acid contained in black seed oil helps to prevent graying by reducing the rate at which pigment cells in hair follicles are depleted.
- It helps to balance sebum or oil secretion in your scalp which leaves the hair conditioned and nourished.
Overall, adding black seed oil to your hair care routine can lead to stronger, healthier, and more beautiful hair.
Black Seeds for Skincare
It has been used for centuries for various beauty purposes. Research suggests that black seed oil possesses anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial properties, and antioxidant properties, making black cumin a promising natural remedy for various skin conditions. The skincare benefits include:
- The oil may help reduce inflammation and redness in acne-prone skin or may reduce scaling and itchiness caused by psoriasis.
- The oil may aid wound healing by reducing inflammation, promoting collagen formation, and accelerating skin regeneration.
- It also helps in treating vitiligo due to its ability to distribute melanin evenly within the skin.
- It is also effective at wound healing and fighting bacteria usually associated with skin conditions like eczema.
- Nigella sativa oil is also known to reduce body mass index and body weight.
All in all, it l is a powerful supplement to any beauty regime seeking natural and holistic treatments.
Risk Factors of Using Black Seeds
Black seeds, also known as Nigella seeds, have been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various health conditions. However, it is important to note that consuming too many black seeds orally may lead to certain side effects. Some of the most common risk factors of using black seeds include:
- Diarrhea
- Upset stomach
- Vomiting and indigestion
- Allergic rash
In rare cases, black seed oil can also cause liver damage and affect fetal development in pregnant women.
While these side effects are generally mild and go away on their own, it is important to practice moderation when consuming black seeds and to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience any severe reactions. As with any natural remedy, it is important to do your research and make informed decisions about what is best for your body.
Bottom Line about black seeds benefits
All in all, black seed and its uses support it as a promising natural therapy. From balancing hormones to relieving digestive issues, this remarkable little seed packs an enormous nutritional punch. Those who are looking for an easy remedy to bring balance to their bodies should certainly consider incorporating black seeds into their diets. Furthermore, many people have used black seed oil for centuries to improve overall skin health.
Just remember, it is an effective supplemental health treatment. It should not be considered a miracle cure. Be sure to talk to your doctor before incorporating it into your health routine and always take measures to ensure quality control when selecting a product.
