Due to its beneficial properties, black cumin seed oil is extremely popular. It is used in cooking, in daily skin and hair care, and for medicinal purposes. It has been used for centuries as an effective remedy for ulcers. When added to dishes, it gives them a spicy aftertaste. It is a unique source of vitamins and minerals that are essential for the body, skin and hair. Let's take a closer look at the beneficial properties, applications and reviews of black cumin seed oil.
Description and types
Nigella, black cumin (Nigella sativa) has long been used as an effective medicine against many diseases in almost all cultures, from Chinese herbalism to ancient Egyptian and Greek medicine.
The first written references to black cumin can be found in the Old Testament of the prophet Isaiah. And the holy prophet Muhammad calledblack cumin "a cure for all diseases except death."
The oil is made from the tiny black seeds of a plant grown in southern Europe. Black cumin was known in antiquity, it was loved by the Egyptian pharaohs. "Gold of the Pharaohs" was even found in the tomb of Tutankhamun.
In those days, black seeds were valued primarily for their medicinal properties. Currently, oil is used not only because of the positive effects on he alth and body condition, but also because of its nutritional properties and taste. Thanks to these qualities, cumin is a unique and very popular spice.
Science also confirms that Nigella is one of the most powerful medicinal plants known to man. What is it?
This is a biennial plant belonging to the Umbelliferae family. It grows in meadows and roadsides, in forests and on the edges. Nigella grows in Central Asia and almost throughout Russia. It has a very powerful root - up to 1 m. It grows up to 35 cm in height.
Produces white or bluish flowers. In the garden, it can be planted as an ornamental plant and then used for culinary and medicinal purposes.
The plant is grown from seeds. They are sown in April directly into the ground. Prefers sunny positions with well-drained soil. It has high drought tolerance. In mid-August, the first black cumin seeds begin to ripen. A sign that the harvest time has come is the yellowing of the stems. The plants should then be uprooted, tied into bunches, and hung in a dry, ventilated area.
Afterdrying, you can collect the seeds. The heads are cut off, laid out on a paper towel and left to dry.
Black cumin seed oil has long been used in cooking and for medicinal purposes. This product in liquid form has a greenish brown color and a spicy aroma and astringent taste.
The taste of oil depends on its type and country of origin. There are the following varieties:
- Ethiopian black cumin seed oil. The hot climate of the country is ideal for growing nigella. This type of oil has a higher concentration of nutrients, a dark color and a bitter, astringent taste. It is mainly used for medicinal purposes.
- Syrian. Derived from local plants, the product has a more delicate, unobtrusive taste, spicy aroma and light color.
- Royal black seed oil. It is obtained by mixing oil from Syria and Ethiopia in certain proportions. It has a pleasant mild taste and is highly effective in treating diseases and promoting he alth.
- Turkish black cumin seed oil. Like the Syrian variety, it is characterized by a more delicate and light taste, a light shade. Suitable for oral and cosmetic use.
Production technology
When buying black cumin seed oil, you should find on the packaging information about the technology by which it is produced. The product is received in two ways:
Hot pressing - before pressing the seeds, they are subjected to strong heat, therebythereby increasing the productivity of the raw materials used and speeding up the production process
Cold pressed - the seeds are pressed without heating them. This method allows you to get much less of the finished product (from 27% of the amount contained in the seeds). Such a product is more nutritious and contains a high dose of active substances
Composition
The benefits of black cumin seed oil are due to its rich composition. Numerous active compounds have been isolated and found in many studies using this product, including protein with a good amino acid profile (8 out of 9 required amino acids), alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, and an essential oil.
A valuable ingredient in black seeds is thymoquinone, a component with a very strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effect. It is with him that a positive anti-cancer and antihistamine effect is associated. In addition, it protects the liver.
The second important substance is nigellon, which has a pronounced anti-inflammatory and antihistamine effect. Another substance characteristic of black cumin is, for example, the alkaloid nigellin.
It contains unsaturated fatty acids, mainly linoleic (50-60%) and oleic (20%), as well as saturated ones - palmitic and stearic (about 30%). Nigella oil contains over 100 biologically active compounds, vitamins A, B1, B3, B6, E, F, biotin and minerals such as zinc, selenium, magnesium, calcium, iron, sodium and potassium.
The use of black cumin seed oil inmedicine
All over the world, compounds of natural origin are widely studied in medicine. Black cumin has also been studied by independent groups of experts due to its wide range of effects on the human body. During the tests, the effect on various types of diseases and inflammatory processes was noted.
Cancer
During a study, scientists from Croatia discovered a high anti-cancer activity of the ingredients contained in black cumin. Phytochemical compounds found in nitrols caused a decrease in the level of tumor cells by 52%. Nigella is also a good adjuvant in the fight against cancer, as it helps to stop the cell cycle, the development of metastases and increase the therapeutic effect of drugs, while reducing their toxicity. Thymoquinone (one of the phytochemicals) is widely described in the US National Library of Medicine as effective against cancers of the blood, lung, kidney, liver, prostate, cervix, colon, and skin.
Allergies and Asthma
Many studies have shown that black cumin has an anti-asthma effect. Depending on the cause of asthma, it may be more effective than some pharmaceuticals. The same properties help relieve allergy symptoms. In 2012, studies were conducted to test the therapeutic efficacy of nigella seeds in the treatment of allergic rhinitis. After 6 weeks of using the cumin oil remedy (three times a day, one drop per nostril), all symptomatic patientsmild allergies fully recovered, 68.7% of people whose symptoms were described at a moderate level also got rid of allergy signs. Even in people with severe allergies, there was an improvement in 58.3% of cases. These benefits are most likely the result of an improved immune system.
Sore throat
Nigella Seeds can help relieve acute pain caused by tonsillitis when taken as a capsule in combination with Phylanthus niruri.
Liver
Medicines derived from the plant support one of the most important organs in our body, the liver. Almost every toxin that enters the body is processed by the organ. This is a responsible role, so you have to keep an eye on your liver. Nigella oil preparations restore the liver due to its antibacterial and cleansing properties.
Diabetes
The use of black cumin seed oil accelerates the regeneration of pancreatic cells. The drug improves glucose tolerance with a similar effectiveness as metformin (one of the most commonly prescribed drugs for type 2 diabetes). The oil does not cause adverse reactions that occur when using metformin (bloating, constipation, abdominal pain, muscle pain, metallic taste in the mouth, nail problems, heartburn, headache). In addition, many studies have shown that oxidative stress can reduce the efficiency of pancreatic cells responsible for the production and release of insulin, leading to the development of diabetes. Black cumin helps to reduceoxidative stress and is a good complementary therapy for type 2 diabetes. A study showed that people suffering from this type of disease, when taken for three months, two grams of black seed per day, achieved a decrease in fasting blood sugar and HbA1c levels, which increased the functionality of pancreatic β-cells.
Weight Loss
It's not just about supporting the loss of already accumulated fat, but about the fight against the causes of excess weight. Black cumin reduces appetite, promotes the absorption of glucose in the intestines, promotes liver glycogenesis, and helps maintain normal levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the body.
Improve digestion
Hippocrates used black seed oil to improve digestion and reduce bloating and gas. Due to its anti-spasmodic properties on the smooth muscles of the intestines, this remedy will be of great help if you suffer from gastrointestinal problems.
Epilepsy
Black cumin is a natural remedy for cramps. In 2007, studies were conducted in children with epilepsy who were found to be resistant to conventional pharmacological treatment. An aqueous extract of the seeds of the plant has been shown to significantly reduce the frequency of epileptic seizures.
Infections
Staphylococcus aureus is one of the most common infections found in hospitals, nursing homes and other he alth care settings. One of its worst features is the frequent resistance toantibiotics. Weakened immunity and advanced age increase susceptibility to infection. Scientists from Pakistan have conducted studies with several strains of MRSA and found that each of them is sensitive to black cumin extract. This demonstrates its strong antibacterial action.
Heart
Black cumin also affects the reduction of heart rate and blood pressure. The thymine contained in it allows you to restore the correct rhythm by inhibiting oxidative stress and regulating the system involved in controlling blood pressure.
Bones
Black seeds have been shown to improve bone he alth with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, as well as high amounts of fatty acids that help increase bone mineral density.
Immune System Support
As a powerful antioxidant, source of vitamins and fatty acids, nigella stimulates the immune system without causing an immune response to he althy tissues in the body. Popular portal NaturalNews calls cumin oil "the most important oil you can include in your diet." Their publications describe a study in IIMER, which showed that taking this oil improves the functioning of the immune system by 72% in just four weeks.
Hair benefits
Black cumin seed oil for hair is useful in that it promotes hair regeneration in case of damage and stops hair loss. This is due to the strong antioxidant and antibacterial properties. Regular use of the product will help restore a he althy appearance and strength.
You will achieve the best results if you massage your head with Royal Black Seed Oil. However, first you need to prep your hair. The procedure is as follows:
- start head massage with lemon juice;
- leave it on hair for 15-20 minutes;
- wash off the juice using shampoo (herbal recommended);
- dry hair and apply medicated scalp oil;
- repeat every day for five weeks.
This head massage stimulates the hair follicles, activating hair growth and preventing hair loss. But there is another option that uses a mixture of caraway and olive oils in a 1: 1 ratio. Such a tool will also help in the fight against more serious problems like alopecia. If you notice that you are losing more hair than usual, try this method.
First you need to prepare the mixture:
- 20g black seed oil;
- 20g henna powder;
- 60 g wine vinegar.
The product must be rubbed into the scalp, left for one hour, and then washed off with water. Repeat the process once a week for a month. The number of hair falling out will decrease significantly, they will begin to grow faster, become more resistant to negative external factors, soft, he althy and shiny. The tool helps to relieve inflammation on the skin and eliminate dandruff. It regulates the level of sebaceous glands and soothes irritation.
Skin benefits
Externally applied royal black cumin seed oil improves the appearance and he alth of the skin. It has moisturizing, protective, soothing, anti-inflammatory and anti-allergic properties.
It will be especially useful for people whose skin is sensitive, prone to inflammation and irritation. It is also ideal for dry and acne prone skin types.
Benefits of topical use of cumin oil for skin:
- moisturizing;
- softening;
- eliminate the symptoms of inflammation, irritation and acne;
- eliminate itching, burning and symptoms of allergic reactions;
- reducing acne;
- improve skin tone;
- regulation of the sebaceous glands;
- cleansing the skin of toxins;
- antibacterial action;
- free radical neutralization;
- acceleration of skin healing;
- slow down the aging process;
- improving skin tone, firmness and elasticity;
- protection from the adverse effects of external factors.
The effectiveness of the application can be observed after about a month from the start of use.
How to use skin oil correctly?
- Apply a small amount of oil (literally 3-4 drops) to lightly moisturized skin. You can use a hydrolyzate or a mild herbal tonic for this. Thanks to this, the product will be better distributed on the skin.
- A good option is to combine the oil with aloe gel or hyaluronic acid.
- To relieve skin irritation, allergic reactions, skin rashes, itching and other unpleasant phenomena, you can add oil to the bath, use it for massage or apply pointwise to damaged areas.
Use and dosage
Let's take a look at how to take black seed oil to avoid overdosing. For the treatment of diseases, the product should be consumed orally in the amount of 2-3 teaspoons per day. If you want to use it for preventive purposes, 1 tsp is enough. per day.
You can add oil to natural juices from vegetables and fruits, to homemade bread, meat and other dishes. It is worth remembering that the product is not suitable as an additive to all dishes. For example, to taste, it will not be combined with cereals. Seeds can be added to pizza, salad, pastries, coffee or tea.
Benefits for men
Let's consider what men use black cumin seed oil for. The remedy helps with such ailments as infertility and prostatitis. It increases the activity of spermatozoa, improves the process of spermatogenesis. Due to this, the amount of seminal fluid increases, the blood supply to the reproductive system improves.
Recipes for men's he alth:
- Mix equal proportions of cumin oil and honey (about 1 tablespoon each).
- Add dry chamomile flowers to the mixture and pour 0.5 liters of boiling water.
- Cool the infusion and strain.
- It is recommended to take 2-3 teaspoons perday.
Massage of the back and genitals with this oil will also be useful for men's he alth.
Benefits for women
Female also actively uses this product. What do women use black cumin seed oil for?
- Getting rid of excess weight.
- For beauty, improving the appearance of skin and hair, maintaining youth.
- Normalize the balance of hormones, which helps to restore the menstrual cycle.
The remedy helps with irritation and inflammation of the external genital organs. The affected areas should be regularly wiped with oil for 3-4 days. Useful in this case and taking the product inside ½ teaspoon for 10 days.
Judging by the reviews, the use of black cumin seed oil helps with cervical erosion. To do this, it is mixed in equal proportions with olive oil. Soak tampons in this mixture and put them on overnight. The course of treatment is 10 days.
Benefits for children
Black cumin seed oil should be given to children primarily because it has a good immunomodulatory effect. However, it is not recommended for babies under one year old. It is allowed to take older children, but with great care, observing the reaction of the body, as allergies may occur.
When developing bronchitis, coughing and asthma symptoms, a child under 3 years old should be given ½ tsp. oils, and older children - 1 spoon a day. With diarrhea, 1 tbsp will help. l. funds mixed withyogurt or kefir so that the baby can drink it.
Side effects
From the reviews of black cumin seed oil, you can understand that it does not pose a threat to human he alth. But with excessive use, like any other remedy or product, it can harm. In case of overdose, hypotension occurs, which, in turn, leads to headaches, dizziness and fainting. Other unpleasant phenomena, such as abdominal pain, itching and problems with urination, are the result of impaired kidney and liver function.
It is recommended to strictly follow the oil dosage recommendations. This information is indicated on the packaging. The oil is also not recommended for pregnant and lactating women.
External use of the product may cause an allergic reaction (itching, dryness, redness). Before using the oil, be sure to test for sensitivity by applying it to a small area of skin.
How to choose the right one?
Before you decide to buy black seed oil from a pharmacy or speci alty store, it is important to make sure that it is made from high quality seeds that have not been chemically processed in any way. The final product must not be diluted. It must be stored in a package that does not let in sunlight. Usually these are dark glass bubbles. It is necessary to choose cold-pressed oil.
The shelf life of a high quality product cannot be long. Usually it is 3-6 months from the date of production. It is important to consider this information, especially whenbuying large quantities of oil. If the expiration date is longer than the specified period, there is a high probability of containing a large amount of chemicals in the composition.
At the bottom of the bottle after opening you will see a white precipitate. This means that the product is natural and does not contain any additives.
For five years, black cumin seed oil "Royal" and "Speech of the Messengers" of the Egyptian plant "Al-Khawaj" has been in demand by consumers. Less popular, but just as effective, are the oils of the Egyptian factories Amana, Ruguzh, Isar-Ko, Al-Karnak. Noteworthy are products with the names "Hemani" (Pakistan), "Golden Camel" (Saudi Arabia), "Baraka" (Sri Lanka).
For those who cannot drink oil, a more convenient oral option is offered - Turkish black cumin seed oil in halal capsules (Al Barakah from the Turkish concern Shiffa Home). They are made from selected seeds by cold pressing. Poured into halal gelatin capsules of 500 mg.
Nigella seeds
The next popular form of release is seeds. Which is better: oil or black cumin seeds?
Nigella sativa oil is a source of a fat-soluble group of biologically active substances. But almost does not contain water-soluble compounds. But in its seeds you will find both the first and second active substances. Therefore, you should use nigella seeds if it is important for you to have a largeamounts of amino acids, phenolic compounds and thymoquinone, as well as other water-soluble compounds.
If your body needs to get a lot of fatty acids, fat-soluble vitamins, phospholipids, essential oils and other substances, taking cumin oil will be more effective.
Seeds are designed for long-term use. Oil is recommended to use if there is a desire to achieve significant results in the treatment of diseases.
When buying seeds, remember that high cost is not a guarantee of high quality. It is recommended to check the source of the product. It is also important that they come from controlled cultures.
In the kitchen, the seeds are used as a spice: added to salads, baked goods, canned vegetables, etc. They can be roasted before use.
Cumin oil ointment
Probably, there is no person who at least once in his life would not experience pain and a feeling of stiffness in muscles and joints. Nervous tension, prolonged stay in an uncomfortable position, as well as sports and other physical activities are the cause of such ailments. In addition, they can be a signal of more dangerous and progressive diseases of the joints, muscles and nerves. In this case, massage using a therapeutic ointment, cream and balm is able to overcome unpleasant phenomena and have a therapeutic effect. These remedies include Coloquint ointment with black cumin seed oil.
This is a natural massage product, which contains pure extracts of a medicinal plantcoloquint and black cumin. It is used in the treatment of such diseases of the musculoskeletal system as:
- arthritis;
- arthrosis;
- spondyloarthritis;
- osteochondrosis;
- Ankylosing spondylitis;
- bursitis;
- inflammation of the sciatic nerve;
- muscle spasm;
- ideomotor (involuntary) muscle contractions and tendon pain.
The ointment has a pronounced warming, as well as an anesthetic and calming effect. With regular use, it significantly reduces the frequency of symptoms of pathologies of the musculoskeletal system and completely relieves muscle stiffness.
Application:
- The ointment should be applied with massaging movements to the affected area twice a day.
- If you have a bruise or muscle injury, it is recommended to use immediately after taking a warm bath (this will enhance muscle relaxation and the effect of the product).
- After rubbing the ointment, the treated part of the body should be kept warm.
- The course of treatment is from 2-4 weeks. If required, the course is repeated after 14 days.
In addition to black cumin oil and colocquint fruit extract, the ointment contains extracts from fennel, mint, eucalyptus, gaultheria, eugenol and limonene.
Reviews on the use of "Royal" oil from black cumin seeds
Many people today prefer royal oil. It is obtained by pressing 30% Ethiopian and 70% Syrian seeds. This is a product with the best ratio of efficiency and taste,suitable for oral and external use. If you read reviews about "Royal" black cumin seed oil on various trading platforms, you can see how some people are delighted that the product combines an affordable price and good quality. After the oil is taken orally, there is a slight stinging sensation and a slight tear in the throat. While taking the product, the risk of ARVI is reduced. It relieves inflammation on the skin and eye fatigue during heavy loads.
Reviews of doctors
Healing properties of nigella are confirmed by doctors' reviews. Black cumin oil is recommended by them as an addition to traditional therapy. Traditional methods of treatment are not recognized by doctors, however, due to its popularity in the world, Nigella sativa has earned the trust even of skeptical specialists.
