When added to salad dressings, black cumin seed oil adds a unique and delicious flavor. It’s also a great addition to stir-frys.
Black cumin seeds and their oil have been used for centuries in traditional medicine. They are rich in thymoquinone, which helps fight off free radicals that can damage cells.
It’s great for skin
Adding black cumin seed oil to your skin care routine can help seal in moisture and fight the signs of aging. It also helps balance oil production and ward off breakouts. A hefty dose of vitamin A in black cumin seed oil also promotes healthy, glowing skin.
The thymoquinone and other phenolic compounds in the black seed have anti-inflammatory properties that soothe the skin and reduce redness and irritation. This makes it great for irritated skin conditions such as eczema and psoriasis. It also has analgesic effects and can reduce pain caused by rheumatism.
When looking for a black cumin seed oil to use on your face, choose one that’s organic and cold-pressed to preserve its natural compounds. Look for a formula that includes other oils and ingredients known to unclog pores and leave your skin clean and smooth. And always patch test any new product on your skin to make sure you’re not allergic.
It’s great for hair
Black cumin seed oil is rich in thymoquinone, which is an antioxidant. Antioxidants fight free radicals, the “bad guy” atoms that can damage cells and cause aging, disease, and inflammation.
It also has nourishing and moisturizing properties. It can be used to make a hair mask or added to shampoos and conditioners to keep your locks healthy. When using the oil, make sure you choose a cold-pressed version that’s free of other ingredients and additives.
The oil can be used to treat dandruff or to give limp or thinning hair a boost. Many people find that it helps their hair grow faster and that it makes their hair stronger.
For a simple hair treatment, mix a tablespoon of black cumin seed oil with a teaspoon of castor oil and massage it into your scalp and hair before washing it. You can use this twice a week to help smooth your hair and prevent dandruff. It also gives your tresses a natural shine and luster.
It’s great for joints
Black cumin seed oil (aka kalonji oil or nigella sativa oil) is gaining momentum as a tool for everything from weight maintenance to soothing achy joints. It’s made from the tiny seeds of the flowering plant Nigella sativa, which is native to Southwest Asia, the Mediterranean and Africa.
Research suggests that black seed oil may help prevent rheumatoid arthritis and other chronic inflammatory conditions by influencing disease signaling pathways. Its anti-inflammatory properties may also protect the heart and blood vessels from damage.
Its aphrodisiac and tonic properties are reputed to promote healthy circulation, while its carminative effects enhance digestion and relieve stomach pain, bloating and gas. It is also used to address respiratory problems such as asthma and bronchitis, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties. You can ingest it in liquid form or take it in capsules. If taking it, be sure to choose a high-quality organic product. Look for one that is 100% black cumin seed oil, in a dark-colored bottle to help protect it from light and air-borne oxidation.
It’s great for weight loss
Black seed oil is a rich source of polyunsaturated fats, which boost “good” cholesterol and lower “bad” cholesterol. It’s also said to help stabilize blood sugar levels, which could help fight off cravings for high-calorie foods.
One study showed that applying a topical black cumin seed oil mixture to hand eczema (dry itchy, scaly patches) was as effective as steroid creams and over-the-counter medications. Another found that a plant-based black seed oil combination helped ease the symptoms of psoriasis, a chronic skin condition that causes itchy, red, silvery patches to form.
While more research is needed, some experts believe that black seed oil may help treat inflammatory conditions like asthma and joint pain. If you decide to use black seed oil for these purposes, make sure it’s pure and comes in a dark glass bottle to prevent rancidity. The thymoquinone in black seed oil acts as a natural anti-inflammatory, helping reduce symptoms of arthritis, rheumatism and other chronic joint pain.