What Is Black Seed Oil Good For? 9 Benefits To Know

Black seed oil may have numerous health benefits, such as managing asthma, acne, diabetes, and more. It's available in capsule and liquid form. Depending on the condition, you can use it either orally or topically.

Black seed oil is an herbal ingredient that many cultures have used to treat many illnesses for more than 2,000 years. The oil is derived from the seeds of the flowering Nigella sativa plant. Some people also call the seeds black cumin or black caraway.

1. Fights Bacteria

Some evidence suggests that black seed oil has antimicrobial effects, meaning it can fight off harmful bacteria. One study found that black seed oil seemed to stop or slow the activity of certain gram-positive bacteria, which can cause infections.

Black seed oil can also be effective against multi-drug-resistant bacteria, such as Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA). These bacteria tend to be hard to treat since they have immunity to some antibiotics and treatments. 

2. High in Antioxidants

Black seed oil has antioxidant effects, largely due to a phytochemical in the oil called thymoquinone. Thymoquinone can fight free radicals, which are unstable molecules in the body that damage cells. This damage can increase your risk of certain diseases, including cancer, over time. Researchers have studied thymoquinone for its potential to help treat cancer and other diseases.

3. Improves Allergy Symptoms

Some evidence suggests that black seed oil can relieve certain allergy symptoms. One small study found that people who applied a topical black seed oil preparation for six weeks had some relief from their allergy symptoms. Black seed oil was most effective for people with mild symptoms like sneezing, a runny nose, and itchy, watery eyes. 

The benefit may vary depending on the severity of your allergies. More research is needed to know how effective black seed oil is in the long term and how it compares to traditional allergy treatments.

4. May Improve Lung Function

Research has shown that thymoquinone can fight inflammation. Black seed oil can be particularly beneficial for conditions that cause lung inflammation, such as asthma. One review found that black seed oil may relieve asthma symptoms. Many of the studies included in the review were small, which suggests that more research is needed. 

One study found that black seed oil improved lung function and reduced inflammation in people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD). Black seed oil may become an additional therapy for people with this type of inflammation. 

5. Provides an Antifungal Effect

Black seed oil has antifungal properties, so it can slow or stop the growth of fungi organisms. The oil can help treat a fungal infection. Some evidence suggests that black seed oil may even be as effective as the antifungal medication Ambisome (amphotericin B). 

6. May Help With Weight Loss

Black seed oil may suppress appetite, which can increase weight loss. One review found that people who took a black seed supplement lost, on average, more weight than those who took a placebo.

7. Improves Acne and Other Skin Conditions

Black seed has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, which may improve the appearance of skin, hair, and nails. Some evidence suggests that black seed oil can treat acne, psoriasis, and hyperpigmentation. You might also be able to use the oil to heal small wounds. Using a topical preparation that contains black seeds may treat hand eczema. Black seed oil can hydrate hair and nails when you apply it directly to your skin. 

8. May Lower Blood Pressure

Taking black seed in a powder or oil form may slightly reduce blood pressure. Research has shown that the improvement in blood pressure is fairly small. More research is needed to see if black seed can help people with hypertension (high blood pressure).

9. May Help with Diabetes

Black seed oil might reduce blood sugar to help manage diabetes and other metabolic conditions like hyperglycemia (high blood sugar). The oil acts as an antioxidant to reduce oxidative stress, which can increase insulin production and activity. Insulin is a hormone that regulates the amount of sugar in the blood. More research is needed to confirm this benefit.

How To Take

You can buy black seed oil supplements in liquid form or capsules. Liquid black seed oil is known for its strong flavor. Mixing the oil with honey or lemon can help dilute the taste. You can massage the oil into your skin, on your scalp, or around your nail beds to improve the appearance of your hair or nails. You can also buy products that contain black seed extract, like shampoo, hair masks, creams, oils, and soaps. 

Dosage

There's no standard dosing recommendation for black seed oil. Research has studied the use of black seed oil in doses of 1–3 grams daily for 4-12 weeks. More research is needed to recommend taking a black seed oil supplement for longer than three months. Talk to a healthcare provider about finding the right dose for you if you decide to try a black seed oil supplement. Be sure to mention any other supplements and medications you are taking. 

Is Black Seed Oil Safe?

Black seed oil is non-toxic. Several studies have examined the oral and topical use of black seed oil and have not uncovered any serious adverse effects. Some evidence suggests that black seed oil may be harmful for people with functional dyspepsia, or chronic stomach pain. Side effects can include nausea and bloating. Talk to a healthcare provider before trying black seed oil if you have functional dyspepsia.

Experts advise people who are pregnant or breastfeeding to avoid using black seed oil. There's not enough evidence to show if it's safe to use during those times.

Potential Drug Interactions

Black seed oil is relatively safe, but it may interact with certain medications or supplements. Talk to a healthcare provider before using black seed oil, especially if you take or are planning to take:

• Anti-clotting drugs: Black seed oil could increase the effect and slow blood clotting more if you take an anticoagulant, which raises your risk of bleeding and bruising.
• Blood pressure medications: Black seed can lower blood pressure, which increases the risk of hypotension (low blood pressure) if you take medications like Norvasc (amlodipine).
• Diabetes medications: Black seed can lower blood sugar levels, which could drop too low if you already take a diabetes medication.
• Diuretics: Both diuretics and black seed oil can lower potassium levels, which may cause muscle weakness, fatigue, or abnormal heart rhythms. 
• Immunosuppressants: Black seed oil can boost your immune system, which may undermine medications that reduce immune activity, like after organ transplants.
• Iron supplements: Black seed oil may increase iron absorption, which risks side effects from too much iron if you take supplements.
• Sedative drugs: Black seed oil may increase sleepiness or slow breathing when you combine it with sedatives.
• Serotonergic drugs: Black seed oil may increase serotonin levels, which can cause seizures, vomiting, and heart problems when you combine it with antidepressants.
  

Can You Take Too Much?

There's not enough research to show whether black seed oil is safe in large amounts or for long periods. It's best to take a daily black seed oil supplement for no longer than three months. Even a small amount of black seed oil can become harmful if you take another medication that produces similar effects. 

Side Effects of Black Seed Oil

Black seed oil may increase the effect of certain medications you take. Some people can develop other side effects, including: 

• Constipation
• Rashes from an allergic reaction
• Upset stomach 
• Vomiting 

Seek medical care if you develop any of these side effects. Talk to a healthcare provider before taking black seed oil if you are concerned about side effects, especially if you take other medications or supplements.

A Quick Review

Black seed oil is an herbal extract that may offer several benefits, such as reducing mild allergy symptoms and improving the appearance of skin and hair. The oil is generally safe for most people to take for a limited time. Black seed oil may interact with other medications, including immunosuppressants and drugs that treat high blood pressure and diabetes. Talk to a healthcare provider about any questions and concerns before taking black seed oil.