What is Black Seed Oil?

If you take a look at the hundreds of scientific peer-reviewed articles that have been published about black seed oil benefits, one fact is clear: It may help the body overcome a number of health issues. No wonder this health-promoting oil has been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine.

In fact, today research demonstrates that black seed oil may aid health issues.

While more research in humans is required to confirm many of these benefits, the benefits of black seed oil and black seed is promising.

What Is Black Seed Oil?

Black seed oil is made from the seeds of the black cumin (Nigella sativa) plant — also called nigella seeds — which belongs to the ranunculus family (Ranunculaceae). The black cumin plant is native to southwestern Asia, the Mediterranean and Africa.

It has been grown for centuries for its aromatic and flavorful seeds that can be used as a culinary spice or as an herbal medicine.

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This oil is also commonly called black cumin seed oil. Be careful, as black seed should not be confused with true cumin (Cuminum cyminum), black pepper, black sesame or black cohosh.

The key to understanding the health benefits of black seed oils lies in the presence of three key natural phytonutrients: thymoquinone (TQ), thymohydroquinone (THQ) and thymol.

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Supplement Options and How to Use

The premium option for black seed oil should always be 100 percent pure, therapeutic-grade and certified USDA organic.

Some companies also specify that their black seed oil is cold-pressed, which typically means that the oil is extracted from the Nigella sativa seeds without the use of heat from an external source resulting. Sometimes, cold-pressed oils are said to be more flavorful.

If you don’t like taking liquid supplements, you can also find black seed oil capsules.

Here are some ways to use black seed oil:

• Black cumin oil can be used topically, but always make sure to dilute it with a a few teaspoons of a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil.
• It can easily be added to homemade massage oils and lotions. For a warming massage, simply add one drop to one tablespoon of a carrier oil.
• To boost hair and scalp health, a few drops of oil can be added to hair products like shampoo and conditioner.
• If you enjoy making homemade fragrances with oils, it’s good to know that this oil has a peppery scent and works well as a base note.
• With its spicy flavor, a high-quality (100 percent pure, therapeutic-grade and certified USDA organic) black seed oil can be used in all kinds of recipes, from meat main courses to soups and stews. You can also add it to beverages like chai tea latte and smoothies.

The appropriate black seed oil dosage can vary by individual and health status. At this time, there is no standard dosage.