Once upon a time, olive oil and canola were the only oils stocked in most pantries. Now, we’re seeing coconut, walnut, avocado and black seed oil strut their stuff on the shelf.
Studies show that consuming black seed oil helps reduce diastolic blood pressure, cholesterol, LDL cholesterol and fasting blood sugar in people with metabolic syndrome. It also helps alleviate a lipid abnormality of diabetes, and may prevent the progression of type 2 diabetes in those with insulin resistance.
Anti-inflammatory
Black seed oil’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties help soothe conditions like psoriasis, eczema, acne, and dark spots. It can also boost a person’s natural skin pigmentation and treat vitiligo, an autoimmune condition that causes depigmentation in the skin and eyes.
Thymoquinone, a compound in black seed oil, has been shown to have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. It also has liver- and kidney-protective properties.
While black seed oil is safe for most adults, it’s important to consult with a health care professional to make sure it won’t interfere with any current medications or cause side effects. For example, it may interact with blood thinners. In addition, it’s important to use a high-quality black seed oil product that’s pure and therapeutic-grade. It should also be organic.
Antimicrobial
The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of black seed oil have been linked to its ability to inhibit bacterial growth and eradicate infections. One study found that all strains of MRSA tested positive to the seeds of Nigella sativa, while some strains of other bacteria also died in the presence of the oil.
Its thymol and thymoquinone components help to reduce inflammation in the liver and help the body detoxify. It also helps improve the liver’s ability to digest fats, which could be useful for anyone suffering from poor liver function due to medications or alcohol consumption.
Another potential benefit of black seed oil is its ability to lower blood pressure. In a small study, individuals who took 2.5 teaspoons of the oil daily experienced reduced systolic blood pressure.
Anti-cancer
Thymoquinone in black seed oil helps prevent cancer, according to animal and human studies. This may be due to its ability to protect against oxidative stress, an imbalance of oxidants and antioxidants that can cause cell damage and disease.
It also boosts mitochondrial functions that slow the aging process and improve oxygen consumption, blood pressure and blood sugar levels. When used as a skin moisturizer, it can also help fight aging signs like wrinkles and age spots.
To get the most benefit from this powerful herb, look for a pure and high quality product that is cold-pressed, organic and U.S. Department of Agriculture certified. You should also look for a black seed oil formulation that is standardized to contain thymoquinone, which is the chemical responsible for many of the benefits.
Anti-aging
Black seed oil is a powerful antioxidant and boosts mitochondrial functions. This helps to fight oxidative stress, which is responsible for many signs of aging including wrinkles and sagging skin. It also reduces free radical damage to the body’s tissues.
Research is limited, but one clinical trial found that patients with rheumatoid arthritis who took black seed oil twice daily experienced improved oxidative stress and reduced inflammation.
Black seed oil is available as a supplement, but it’s important to choose a high-quality product. Look for a certified organic, therapeutic-grade oil from a company that uses USDA organic standards. The oil should have a high Thymoquinone content, which is the most active ingredient in black seed oil. A reliable supplier will offer this information on their website or through a third-party lab.
Weight loss
Black seed oil has been shown to help with weight loss, mainly by helping control insulin levels. It may also reduce triglycerides and cholesterol, which are components of metabolic syndrome.
Studies suggest that it may be able to lower blood pressure, as well. In one study, participants with high blood pressure who took 3 grams of black seed oil daily for 12 weeks saw a reduction in their systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Black seed oil is a supplement, so it’s important to talk to your doctor before using it. You’ll want to make sure it won’t interfere with your medication or exacerbate an existing health condition. You should also only use a quality, therapeutic-grade black seed oil. Choose a premium option that’s certified organic and 100 percent pure.black seed oil benefits
