What effect does black cumin oil have? 12 health benefits

Veröffentlicht am: October 15, 2024
Sarah Allen
Sarah Allen

Nutritionist and dietician

The fascination that emanates from black cumin seed oil goes far beyond mere tradition and is backed up by sound research. A deeply effective elixir that leaves hardly a complaint untouched is at the heart of naturopathy. With remarkably few side effects and an impressive list of healing properties, black seed oil is considered a titan among natural remedies.

A look at the ingredients reveals not only the variety of active ingredients it contains, but also the health benefits that black cumin oil has to offer. From alleviating everyday ailments to supporting holistic health - the areas of application for this oil testify to its extraordinary versatility and effectiveness.

Contents

What is black cumin seed oil?

The versatile black cumin oil is obtained from the seeds of black cumin (Nigella sativa), which is native to southwest Asia, the Mediterranean region and Africa. Although black cumin belongs to the buttercup family and is often confused with conventional cumin, it has its own special place in both cooking and traditional medicine.

Research is focusing on the ingredient thymoquinone, which gives black cumin oil its impressive properties. Thymoquinone is known for its positive influence on the liver, its anti-inflammatory effect, its ability to counteract the development of cancer and its antioxidant potential. In addition to thymoquinone, black cumin seed oil also contains alpha-hederin, which is known for its anti-cancer effect.

But black cumin seed oil has even more to offer: A rich spectrum of fatty acids, especially unsaturated ones such as linoleic and oleic acid. It also contains vital minerals and trace elements such as calcium, iron and zinc as well as a range of important vitamins, including carotene and various B vitamins. A true powerhouse of nature that not only enriches the kitchen, but also helps your health.

All the active ingredients of black cumin oil at a glance

Black seed oil is rich in a variety of bioactive ingredients that give it a wide range of health benefits:

  • fatty acids (~30%): Predominantly unsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic acid (omega-6) and oleic acid (omega-9), supplemented by saturated fatty acids, contribute to heart health and support anti-inflammatory processes.
  • Minerals: The minerals calcium, iron, sodium, copper, phosphorus, zinc and potassium are essential for numerous bodily functions.
  • Carotene (provitamin A): The precursor of vitamin A, supports vision and the immune system.
  • B vitamins: The B vitamins thiamine (B1), niacin, folic acid and vitamin B6 contribute to energy metabolism and nerve function.
  • Thymoquinone: A powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer and strengthening properties for the immune system.
  • Thymohydroquinone and thymol: powerful antioxidants, with thymol also having antimicrobial properties.
  • Nigellone: A bioflavonoid that has a bronchodilating effect and therefore has a supportive effect on respiratory diseases.
  • Alpha-hederin: A saponin-like compound with a potential anti-cancer effect.
  • Essential oils and flavonoids: Have antiseptic, antifungal and antioxidant properties that contribute to overall health.

These diverse ingredients make black cumin seed oil a valuable natural remedy with a wide range of applications, from supporting the immune system and improving heart health to relieving inflammation and potentially protecting against certain types of cancer.

Black cumin oil effect

 

The effect of black cumin oil - 12 benefits

Black cumin oil is used as a natural remedy for many ailments:

  • Allergies
  • Weakened immune system
  • Various skin problems such as psoriasis or acne
  • Digestive problems
  • Asthma
  • Joint complaints
  • Diabetes
  • Overweight
  • Fertility disorders
  • High blood pressure
  • Elevated cholesterol level

1. black cumin oil: a natural helper for allergies and hay fever

The use of black cumin oil to alleviate allergy symptoms is becoming increasingly important due to promising research results. Black cumin oil shows its potential to be particularly effective for seasonal symptoms such as hay fever. Studies have shown that people who suffer from the typical symptoms of hay fever - including a blocked and itchy nose, sneezing and a runny nose - experience significant relief from their symptoms within the first two weeks of taking black cumin oil. This positive effect is due to the anti-inflammatory properties of the oil, in particular the active ingredient thymoquinone, which also has an antihistamine effect.

A comprehensive analysis of four studies involving a total of 152 patients suffering from various forms of allergies confirms the effectiveness of black seed oil in relieving a range of allergic reactions, including asthma, eczema and chronic nasal congestion. Those affected took black cumin oil capsules daily at a dose of 40 to 80 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. This corresponds to a daily intake of two to four grams for a body weight of 50 kilograms.

These findings open up interesting perspectives for the natural treatment of allergy symptoms. Black cumin oil therefore represents a valuable alternative to conventional therapy to significantly improve the quality of life of allergy sufferers, especially by minimizing or even eliminating the need for pharmaceutical antihistamines and other allergy medications.

2. black cumin oil as an immune booster: the power of thymoquinone

The health-promoting effect of black cumin seed oil, particularly through its main active ingredient thymoquinone, extends to the immune system in an impressive way. Studies at the cellular level have repeatedly shown that this oil strengthens the immune system and contributes to increased antibody production.

The thymoquinone contained in black cumin oil offers multidimensional protection against oxidative damage and supports the immune system through:

  • Strengthening the antioxidant enzymes in the liver: Glutathione in particular, which acts as the most important antioxidant in the body, is strengthened by black cumin oil, which significantly supports liver health.
  • Protection against oxidative damage in various tissues: These include important organs such as the stomach, liver, kidneys and blood vessels, which are protected by the antioxidant effect of black cumin oil.
  • Reduction of homocysteine levels in the blood: Elevated homocysteine levels are associated with various cardiovascular diseases. Black cumin oil helps to reduce this risk factor.
  • Stimulation of the activity of natural killer cells (NK cells): NK cells play a crucial role in the body's defense against viruses and in tumor defense. Black cumin oil increases the effectiveness of these important immune cells, which leads to improved protection against viral infections such as flu and colds, but also against more serious threats such as the hepatitis C virus.

These diverse mechanisms of action show that black cumin seed oil is far more than just a dietary supplement. It is a powerful immune booster that stimulates the body's defenses in a natural way.

3. healthy skin thanks to black cumin oil

Black seed oil has proven to be an effective treatment for skin problems. It is effective against clogged pores, oily skin and helps to relieve redness, irritation and skin conditions such as eczema.

When applied externally, black cumin oil unfolds its many benefits for the skin:

  • Nutrient supply: The oil is rich in important vitamins such as A, B and C and minerals such as calcium, potassium, magnesium and zinc. These nutrients are essential for healthy skin and a radiant appearance.
  • Reducing oily skin and clogged pores: Black seed oil is a natural solution for those who struggle with excessive sebum production and clogged pores. It helps to cleanse the skin and restore its balance.
  • Moisturizing: Like other natural oils, black seed oil is rich in fatty acids, which provide the skin with lasting moisture, keep it supple and protect it from drying out.
  • Lightening of pigment spots: With regular use, dark spots can be lightened and the skin's appearance improved. Vitamins, amino acids and fatty acids in black seed oil work together to revitalize the skin and give it a more youthful appearance.

Black seed oil thus offers a natural and effective way to promote skin health, provide it with essential nutrients and treat common skin problems. It is a versatile remedy that not only nourishes and protects the skin, but also enhances its natural beauty.

4. black cumin oil: beneficial for the stomach and intestines

The healing properties of black seed oil also include the gastrointestinal area, where it provides relief from various ailments. It is known to help with digestive problems by significantly relieving symptoms such as stomach pain, cramps and bloating. The traditional use of black cumin seeds shows that they can promote healthy digestion and relieve ailments such as indigestion, loss of appetite and diarrhea.

Thymoquinone, the main ingredient in black seed oil, plays a central role in combating yeast and fungal infections, suggesting its use in the treatment of Candida and other fungal infections of the digestive tract. The preventative effect observed in scientific studies suggests that thymoquinone also plays a key role in regulating stomach acid production and protecting the mucous membranes in the digestive tract. These mucous membranes are crucial for maintaining the health and function of the digestive system.

Thanks to its multiple mechanisms of action, black cumin seed oil therefore offers a natural approach to supporting gastrointestinal health. It not only relieves symptoms, but also helps tostrengthen and maintain the foundations of a healthydigestive system.

Black cumin oil for the gut

5. with thymoquinone against respiratory problems

Black cumin seed oil, with the effective ingredient thymoquinone, shows promising results in relieving asthma symptoms. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, it has a positive effect on the airways and thus offers natural support for bronchitis and other respiratory diseases. A study published in Phytotherapy Research in 2017 showed that asthma patients who took black cumin oil capsules experienced a significant improvement in their symptoms compared to a placebo group. Due to the antispasmodic and bronchodilator effect of thymoquinone, symptoms such as wheezing are alleviated by relieving muscle spasms and widening the airways.

6. black cumin oil relieves joint pain

The anti-inflammatory properties of black cumin convinced researchers at Kings College in London back in the 1960s. Their studies showed that black cumin oil and thymoquinone not only have an antioxidant effect and inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory tissue hormones, but can also slow down the breakdown of joint cartilage. These results confirm the assumption that black cumin seed oil has a supportive effect in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis and other inflammatory joint diseases. Further studies show that taking black cumin oil for rheumatoid arthritis reduces joint pain, swelling and morning stiffness.

7. black seed oil helps control diabetes

Research published in Complementary Therapies in Medicine in 2015 has shown that black seed oil can offer valuable help to diabetics. The analysis of various studies showed that black seed has positive effects on blood sugar and cholesterol levels . By regulating insulin secretion and glucose uptake , black seed oil helps to stabilize blood sugar levels and thus makes a valuable contribution to the control of diabetes.

8. black cumin oil supports weight loss

Research shows that black seed oil can be a natural supporter in the fight against obesity. A study published in the Journal of Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders, which examined the effectiveness of various plants against obesity, positioned black seed oil as one of the most effective natural remedies worldwide. The results of a scientific review and meta-analysis from 2018, which included eleven placebo-controlled clinical trials, underline the positive effects of black seed oil on body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference, with no serious side effects reported.

9. increase fertility with black cumin oil

In addition to its many health benefits, black seed oil can also promote fertility. A randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study investigated whether black seed oil can improve fertility in men with abnormal sperm. After taking 2.5 ml of black cumin oil twice a day over a period of two months, the treatment group showed improvements in sperm count, motility and seminal fluid volume.

10. blood pressure-lowering effect of black cumin oil

Black cumin oil is effective in lowering blood pressure due to its vasodilating properties, which cause the blood vessel walls to relax. In one study, the daily intake of 5 ml of black cumin oil over a period of eight weeks led to a significant reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure without side effects. These results confirm that even a small daily dose can support heart health.

11. keep cholesterol levels in balance with black cumin

Black cumin offers comprehensive protection for the heart, as it not only lowers blood pressure, but also has a positive effect on blood lipid levels . This prevents the accumulation and hardening of lipids in the blood vessels. Evaluations of various clinical studies have shown that the intake of black cumin preparations leads to a significant reduction in total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol ("bad" cholesterol) and triglycerides in the blood. Interestingly, the effect of black cumin oil on blood lipid levels was more pronounced than that of black cumin powder.

The active ingredient thymoquinone plays a key role in the prevention of arteriosclerosis by lowering elevated cholesterol levels. Black cumin protects the heart in many ways, including through its diuretic effect, reducing the body's stress response, promoting the release of nitric oxide to relax blood vessels and its antioxidant properties. Black cumin can thus effectively lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels as well as blood pressure.

12. strengthening the endocannabinoid system with black cumin oil

Endocannabinoids, an important component of the nervous system, have been the focus of scientific attention for several years. In particular, beta-caryophyllene (BCP), an important phytocannabinoid contained in black cumin oil, shows a specific ability to bind to the CB2 cannabinoid receptors, which have an important function in the peripheral nervous system, immune system, intestines, liver, skin and bones . The activation of these receptors by BCP can help to strengthen the entire endocannabinoid system and thus support health in a variety of ways. This can lead to a whole host of health benefits, such as astronger defense against disease, less inflammation and better skin health.

Other uses of black cumin oil

External use on skin and hair

External application is particularly suitable for new users. To do this, always dilute black cumin oil with a few teaspoons of a carrier oil (coconut or almond oil). Due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, this mixture is suitable for treating common skin problems such as acne, eczema or rosacea.

Black cumin oil can also be used as an additive in self-mixed massage oils or lotions to utilize the full spectrum of healing properties. For a soothing, warming massage, mix a few drops to a maximum of one tablespoon with a carrier oil.

To promote hair and scalp health , add a few drops to your hair care products such as shampoo and conditioner.

If you like to mix your own fragrances from essential oils, black cumin oil with its peppery note is ideal as a base note.

Effect of black cumin oil on the skin

Refine your dishes with black cumin oil

Refine your salad dressings or smoothies with black cumin oil. Drizzle it over cereals or dishes that you would normally enhance with other essential oils. (Think of black seed oil as an oil for rounding off and refining and not as an oil for cooking or frying). However, make sure that you do not add more than the recommended daily dose to your food. In addition, black cumin seed oil should not be mixed into hot dishes, as otherwise the valuable ingredients will be destroyed.

High-quality black cumin seed oil (100% pure, certified organic oil) is suitable for a variety of dishes due to its spicy flavor , for example in meat dishes, soups and stews. Alternatively, you can also mix a few drops into smoothies.

Are there any side effects when using black cumin oil?

Allergic skin rashes may occasionally occur when the oil is ingested or applied to the skin. Therefore, before using the oil for the first time, test a small area of skin to see if you are allergic to the oil. Avoid contact of the oil with the eyes and mucous membranes.

In rare cases, taking black cumin oil can lead to stomach pain, vomiting or diarrhea. The risk of seizures increases in some users.

If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, taking medication or have a medical condition (especially diabetes, low blood pressure and blood clotting disorders), you should consult your doctor before using or taking black cumin oil. The use or intake of black cumin oil should be stopped at least two weeks before a planned operation.

 


Sources (in English):

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Koshak, A., Wei, L., Koshak, E., Wali, S., Alamoudi, O., Demerdash, A. et al. (2017, March). Nigella sativa Supplementation Improves Asthma Control and Biomarkers: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Phytotherapy Research, 31(3):403-409, doi: 10.1002/ptr.5761

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