Black seed oil whose Latin name is Nigella Sativa has been traditionally used as a natural remedy for over 2000 years. Known as the miracle seed, the black seed plant was even discovered in the tomb of King Tut, which only proved the value of this herb to the Kings.
Nigella Sativa is the botanical name of black seed. However, it is known as Black Cumin, Habbatul Baraka (the Blessed Seed), and Black Caraway Seed. The herb has been used for various conditions and treatments related to respiratory health, intestinal health and stomach, liver and kidney function.
There is scientific evidence to suggest that black seed may help enhance the immune system, prevent pregnancy, fight cancer, reduce allergic reactions by acting as an antihistamine. Although not all of its medicinal uses have been proven yet, black seed oil has already been linked to several health benefits.
- Rich in antioxidants – black seed oil is known for being high in antioxidants – a compound found in plants that effectively protects cells against damage which is directly caused by unstable molecules widely known as free radicals. Antioxidants are an important factor in our health. The research found out that they can effectively reduce inflammation and even protect us against conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease, heart diseases, and cancer.
- Lowers blood sugar levels – for people suffering from diabetes and consistently having a high blood sugar level, using black seed oil may significantly reduce blood sugar levels
- Protects brain health – inflammation of brain tissues called neuroinflammation is thought to play a crucial role in the development of certain brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. Early research suggests that black seed oil’s thymoquinone may help reduce neuroinflammation and thus protect our brain against disorders like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
- Helps in weight loss – research shows that black seed oil can aid in reducing body mass index or BMI in obesity. In the study, those taking black seed oil significantly lost more weight than those who were not.
Other potential benefits that people can gain from using black seed oil:
- Reduced the symptoms of arthritis – since it has an anti-inflammatory compound, research suggests that black seed oil can help lessen joint inflammation for those people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis.
- Male infertility – study shows that regular use of black seed oil can improve the quality of semen for those men diagnosed with infertility.
There is no wonder that black seed oil is considered a miracle seed. Aside from the fact that it has been used for so many years, the advancement of our technology has greatly contributed to the development and further study of black seed oil.