Is black seed oil really as powerful as some say? Also known as Nigella-sativa or black cumin seed, it has been said that black seed oil cures all except death. But is there any truth to this? Here, we dive into some of the incredible benefits of this whole-food supplement.
1. Antioxidant
Our bodies are filled with free radicals, or things that cause damage in the body. When free radicals accumulate, it can lead to disease states such as aging, endocrine illness, cancer and more. Antioxidants work to fix these free radical problems so that they don’t cause damage and black seed oil is a great source for this.
2. Anti-inflammatory
Inflammation is a key contributor in disease. Black seed oil has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties which have demonstrated pain-relieving effects as well as improvements in respiratory function, kidney function, asthma and more.
3. Antibacterial
Black seed oil contains a compound called thymoquinone, which has been shown to have positive effects on bacteria such as Bacillus, Listeria, Enterococcus, Micrococcus, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, Escherichia, Salmonella, Serovar, Vibrio parahaemolyticus and H. pylori. It has also been able to stop the growth of bacterial biofilms, which are bacteria that accumulate together in one place.
4. Anti-viral
Studies have shown that black seed oil was able to have a positive impact on viruses such as Hepatitis C, HIV and the cytomegalovirus. According to the African Journal of Infectious Disease, a study involving a 27-year-old HIV positive woman was directed to supplement 10 mL of black seed oil mixed with honey for one year. At the one-year mark, her blood was drawn, and it was found that the HIV virus was undetectable. In addition, symptoms improved in a trial involving supplementation for the avian influenza virus.
5. Neuro-protective
Neurological disorders are widely prevalent in the world today. Stress in the body is the main contributing factor when it comes to mental health. Overwhelming amounts of stress has shown to contribute to changes in neurochemicals, or chemicals in the nervous system. The compound thymoquinone, an active component in black seed oil, helps protect the nervous system. Studies have shown amazing improvements in those who suffer from Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, Depression, Anxiety and Epilepsy.
6. Anticancer
Cancer is one of the leading causes of death, with millions of people falling victim each year. Black seed contains 4 components which have notably powerful properties: thymoquinone, dithymoquinone, thymohydroquinone, and thymol. It has been shown to suppress tumors within living organisms, kill off bad cells and stop harmful chemicals from damaging cells. Some cancers that have improved with supplementation are breast, blood, renal, colon, pancreatic, hepatic, lung and skin.
Caution
Caution should be taken from this supplement in a few instances. It is considered a blood thinner, so it should not be supplemented if pregnant or prior to surgery. You should consult your doctor with any questions or concerns.
Wrap-up
While we can’t quite say that black seed oil cures all, it is apparent that it has been a warrior in combating disease. In addition, it is important to note that a cold-pressed oil is the best option because most nutrients are retained. If a bottle does not state that it is cold pressed, it is typically processed with heat, which involves loss of nutrients. Ultimately, the future seems bright with this natural remedy in it!
Learn more about ways to adopt a healthy lifestyle and other wellness programs at Wellness Workdays.
Written by: Ashley Siuda, Wellness Workdays Dietetic Intern
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