Black seed oil, also known as Nigella sativa or cumin, is a popular herbal supplement with powerful phytochemicals that have antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. These properties are attributed to the oil’s main compound, thymoquinone. The oil has been used as a natural remedy to treat a number of conditions, including inflammation, arthritis and high blood pressure.
Black seed is available in many forms, including capsules and soft gels. The oil can be used in cooking or as a topical application, but make sure to buy a premium option that’s 100 percent pure, therapeutic-grade and certified organic. It should also be stored away from heat and sunlight to preserve its nutrient content.
One of the black seed oil benefits is that it can help stabilize blood sugar levels in diabetics. In a study, patients who took 2,000 mg of the supplement daily for 8 weeks experienced reduced appetites and lower body weights, waist circumferences and blood fats, or triglycerides.
Another black seed oil benefit is that it can boost liver function in those with hepatitis C. Taking a black seed oil supplement can help the liver eliminate toxins and process bile, which helps digest fats.
A study found that black seed oil can help increase sperm count in infertile men, which may be due to its thymic glycosides and antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. However, more research is needed on this subject. As with all supplements, talk to your healthcare provider about whether this one is appropriate for you. It’s important to avoid taking it if you have bleeding disorders, as it might slow blood clotting or make existing conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure worse.
