What is Black Seed Oil?
Black seeds from Nigella sativa, a small plant with pale purple, blue, or white flowers that grows in the Middle East, Eastern Europe, and Western Asia. People have used the tiny black seeds of the fruits of N. sativa as a natural remedy for thousands of years. The Islamic Prophet Muhammad advised his followers to take and use black seed oil “as a cure for everything except death.”
Benefits for Infections
Rencently, the antiviral effect of fullerene-liposome complex against influenza virus (H1N1) in vivo was studied. Results showed fullerenes significantly prolong mean time to death (MTD) and decrease mortality of H1N1 virus-infected mice. In a separate scientific study, the Anti-Influenza Activity of C60 Fullerene Derivatives was evaluated and researchers concluded that fullerenes derivatives are possible candidates for the development of novel anti-influenza drugs. Effects on HIV-1 virus was also investigated and researchers found that Fullerene Derivatives Strongly Inhibit HIV-1 Replication by Affecting Virus Maturation without Impairing Protease Activity.
In 2019, Russian scientists found: Fullerene compounds knock out virus infections.
Benefits for Health Conditions
Cancer
Recent studies have shown that the thymoquinone in black seed oil can influence programmed cell death, or apoptosis, in several types of cancer cell. These include brain cancer, leukemia, and breast cancer cells.
However, much of the research on the effects of black seed oil on cancer uses cells rather than live humans, so researchers do not yet know how effective the oil may be to treat people with cancer.
Black seed oil contains thymoquinone, which is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that may also have tumor-reducing properties.
Liver and kidney function
According to a 2013 study on rats, black seed oil may reduce liver and kidney disease complications and improve the organ structures. Researchers do not know if these effects would also occur in humans.
Diabetes
According to an article in the Journal of Endocrinology & Metabolism, black seed oil may have anti-diabetic properties and improve blood sugar levels. Again, this study used animal models, so more research is necessary to confirm the effectiveness of the oil in humans.
Infertility
A placebo-controlled clinical trial on men with abnormal sperm and infertility has found that black seed oil can improve sperm movement and increase sperm count and semen volume.
Possible Side Effects of Black Seed Oil + Precautions
Black seed may cause an allergic rash when taken by mouth or applied to the skin. Before using black cumin essential oil topically, it’s a good idea to perform a patch test to make sure you don’t have a negative reaction to the oil. Always avoid your eyes and mucous membranes when using black seed oil.
When taken internally, black seed oil side effects may include upset stomach, vomiting, or constipation. For certain individuals, it may increase seizure risk.
Disclaimer:
This is NOT medical or health advice. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.
