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Black Cumin Seed

Black Cumin SeedsPeople in the old world, from India to the Mediterranean, have consumed and revered black cumin seeds for ages. People have been using this herb, its seeds, and its products in culinary practices and medicine. In India, it is better known as “Kalonji,” whereas, in middle-east as “Habba Al-Barakah,” which literarily means “with God’s blessing.” It’s botanical name is Nigella Sativa.1

It is among the seeds mentioned in Ayurveda, ancient Greek texts, and religious books of Christianity and Islam – such is the status of this seed. It is often added to bread. Traditionally, people have used it for innumerable health conditions, from managing asthma, inflammation, respiratory issues, and back pain, to chest congestion.1

Back cumin seed and its oil work due to antioxidant, hepatoprotective, neuroprotective, and immunomodulator properties. It is also good for metabolic health. It is rich in bioactive compounds like terpenes, phenols, and flavonoids.2

One may use both black cumin seed and its oil for many different health benefits. However, oil-based black seed supplements have become more common in recent years. This is due to improvements in extraction techniques and ease of use of such oil. For example, one can use a few drops of oil sub-lingually, then ingest it. This results in quick action and some unique health effects due to the excellent bioavailability of bioactive compounds.

Most black cumin seed is sourced from sub-Himalayan regions for producing health supplements. These regions have specific weather conditions, resulting in higher concentrations of bioactive compounds in the oil. Additionally, this region has better environmental conditions, resulting in high-purity products.

And, one more important thing, always choose cold-pressed virgin and unfiltered black seed oil. Such oil preserves all the vital bioactive compounds, unlike other methods that use heat, or supercritical extraction, which are better for isolating specific compounds only. Additionally, avoid using black seed oils that use solvents for extraction, as residual solvents can harm health.

Black Seed and Black Seed Oil Health Benefits

Although people have long used black seed and its oil for health benefits, there has been increased research into the herb in recent years. Thus, now science has uncovered its many health benefits. Some of the reasons to use it are:

  • Digestive Health

Digestive problems like bloating and abdominal pains are among the leading causes of seeking medical health. Fortunately, most digestive disorders are mild. However, they tend to be chronic and cause much distress. Therefore, natural remedies like black cumin seeds have a special place in managing such issues.1

Traditionally, people in various parts of the world have sprinkled a few seeds of black cumin on bread before baking. A few seeds of this wonderful herb are enough to improve digestion. Studies suggest that it can promote digestion in two ways; it helps prevent the growth of harmful pathogens and promotes the growth of gut microbiota. It is especially good for regular and prolonged use.1

  • Weight Loss

Obesity is widespread, particularly in the West and other developed economies. It is the root cause of the higher prevalence of a number of health issues, from heart diseases and stroke to brain disorders and cancers. Of course, black cumin seed oil is not a magic bullet, but it is one of the supportive weight loss tools. It is a good idea to use black seed oil and lifestyle interventions for weight loss.3

Studies show that black cumin seeds can increase exercise capacity, lower bad cholesterol, and help lower body mass index (BMI). It is particularly good for lowering LDL and elevating HDL, which explains how it helps. This also means that it is quite good for metabolic health.3

  • Immune Support

One of the most significant reasons for its popularity is its ability to modulate immunity. Studies suggest that many of its effects on the immune system are due to its thymoquinone, nigellidine, and α-hederin content. Black Seeds are particularly good for preventing respiratory allergies and infections. It has potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune modifying properties.4

  • Brain Health & Mental Clarity

Brain disorders like dementia, Parkinson’s and mood disorders are rising. Additionally, many people experience brain fog and a lack of mental clarity. People are always looking for something that could help boost their brain health. Studies suggest that thymoquinone found in black seed cumin is a potent neuroprotective agent.5

  • Skin Health

Understanding that cold pressed oils are nourishing and good for skin health is vital. They are equally good when consumed and used topically. Besides nourishing the skin, black cumin seed oil can protect it from various infections. It is good against bacteria, parasites, viruses, and fungi.6

  • Hair & Scalp

What is generally good for the skin is also good for hair and scalp. In Asia, people have traditionally used various hair oils. Interestingly, the use of hair oil is also now increasing in the West. Of course, black seed cumin oil is not just about nourishing. It can help fight fungal infections and prevent issues like dandruff, which is a kind of fungal infection, too.6

  • Heart Health

Black seed oil is particularly good for heart health. Studies suggest that it helps by lowering inflammation, platelet aggregation, and LDL cholesterol, helping relax vascular smooth muscles, enhancing endothelial function, and preventing atherosclerosis in the long run. Many of its benefits are attributed to its content of nigellidine, thymoquinone, thymol, and other antioxidants.7

  • Bone Health

Bones are not inert structures as many imagine. They are highly dynamic. Bones are continually remodelled, and not to forget that they produce red blood cells and even immune cells. It means that bone issues like osteoporosis are not just due to hormonal issues or poor calcium intake. Bone issues may also occur due to inflammation and oxidative stress. Black cumin seed oil is good for bone health and has an antiosteoporosis effect.8

  • Thyroid Health

The thyroid can be seen as a control box that regulates the speed of metabolic activities, thus influencing almost every body function. Studies show that black seeds can help prevent various thyroid issues. These benefits are due to its immunomodulating, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties.9

Side Effects of Black Cumin Seed

Black cumin seeds are very safe and will not cause any side effects. Humans have been consuming them for thousands of years, and it has been a part of a regular diet. Of course, abusing anything may harm health. Animal studies show that even high black cumin seed extract intake, like six grams per kg of body weight, is safe. Nonetheless, one should always use health supplements in recommended dosages. Remember that health supplements are more potent than roasted black cumin seeds. The potency of supplements significantly depends on extraction methods. Thus, avoid overdosing.10

Properties

  • Anti-Aging11
  • Anti-Bacterial6
  • Anti-Fungal6
  • Anti-Inflammatory4
  • Antioxidant2
  • Anti-Parasitic6
  • Antiviral6
  • Asthma1
  • Blood Pressure – Reduces12
  • Bone Strengthening8
  • Brain Function / Neuroprotective2, 5
  • Breathing Difficulties1
  • Cancer Prevention13
  • Cholesterol7
  • Dementia Prevention5
  • Depression14
  • Diabetes / Blood Sugar15
  • Digestive Function1
  • Hair Growth and Support6
  • Heart Support / Health7
  • Immune Booster4
  • Kidney Support16
  • Lactation Assistance17
  • Liver Health2
  • Muscle Spasms7
  • Pain Relief1
  • Respiratory Support1
  • Thyroid Support9
  • Ulcer Support18
  • Weight Loss / Management3
  • Wound Healing9

References

  1. Ahmad MF, Ahmad FA, Ashraf SA, et al. An updated knowledge of Black seed (Nigella sativa Linn.): Review of phytochemical constituents and pharmacological properties. J Herb Med. 2021;25:100404. doi:10.1016/j.hermed.2020.100404
  2. Srinivasan K. Cumin (Cuminum cyminum) and black cumin (Nigella sativa) seeds: traditional uses, chemical constituents, and nutraceutical effects. Food Quality and Safety. 2018;2(1):1-16. doi:10.1093/fqsafe/fyx031
  3. Farzaneh E, Nia FR, Mehrtash M, Mirmoeini FS, Jalilvand M. The Effects of 8-week Nigella sativa Supplementation and Aerobic Training on Lipid Profile and VO2 max in Sedentary Overweight Females. Int J Prev Med. 2014;5(2):210-216.
  4. Kulyar MF e A, Li R, Mehmood K, Waqas M, Li K, Li J. Potential influence of Nigella sativa (Black cumin) in reinforcing immune system: A hope to decelerate the COVID-19 pandemic. Phytomedicine. 2021;85:153277. doi:10.1016/j.phymed.2020.153277
  5. Farkhondeh T, Samarghandian S, Shahri AMP, Samini F. The Neuroprotective Effects of Thymoquinone: A Review. Dose Response. 2018;16(2):1559325818761455. doi:10.1177/1559325818761455
  6. Forouzanfar F, Bazzaz BSF, Hosseinzadeh H. Black cumin (Nigella sativa) and its constituent (thymoquinone): a review on antimicrobial effects. Iran J Basic Med Sci. 2014;17(12):929-938.
  7. Shakeri F, Khazaei1 M, Boskbady1 MH. Cardiovascular Effects of Nigella Sativa L. and its Constituents. Indian Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences. 2018;80(6):971-983. doi:10.4172/pharmaceutical-sciences.1000447
  8. Shuid AN, Mohamed N, Mohamed IN, et al. Nigella sativa: A Potential Antiosteoporotic Agent. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2012;2012:696230. doi:10.1155/2012/696230
  9. Farhangi MA, Dehghan P, Tajmiri S, Abbasi MM. The effects of Nigella sativa on thyroid function, serum Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) – 1, Nesfatin-1 and anthropometric features in patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis: a randomized controlled trial. BMC Complement Altern Med. 2016;16:471. doi:10.1186/s12906-016-1432-2
  10. Mashayekhi-Sardoo H, Rezaee R, Karimi G. (black seed) safety: an overview. Asian Biomedicine. 2020;14(4):127-137. doi:10.1515/abm-2020-0020
  11. Shahroudi MJ, Mehri S, Hosseinzadeh H. Antiaging Effect of Nigella Sativa Fixed Oil on D-Galactose-Induced Aging in Mice. J Pharmacopuncture. 2017;20(1):29-35. doi:10.3831/KPI.2017.20.006
  12. Dehkordi FR, Kamkhah AF. Antihypertensive effect of Nigella sativa seed extract in patients with mild hypertension. Fundam Clin Pharmacol. 2008;22(4):447-452. doi:10.1111/j.1472-8206.2008.00607.x
  13. Shabana A, El-Menyar A, Asim M, Al-Azzeh H, Al Thani H. Cardiovascular benefits of black cumin (Nigella sativa). Cardiovasc Toxicol. 2013;13(1):9-21. doi:10.1007/s12012-012-9181-z
  14. Perveen T, Haider S, Zuberi NA, Saleem S, Sadaf S, Batool Z. Increased 5-HT Levels Following Repeated Administration of Nigella sativa L. (Black Seed) Oil Produce Antidepressant Effects in Rats. Sci Pharm. 2014;82(1):161-170. doi:10.3797/scipharm.1304-19
  15. Hamdan A, Haji Idrus R, Mokhtar MH. Effects of Nigella Sativa on Type-2 Diabetes Mellitus: A Systematic Review. International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. 2019;16(24):4911. doi:10.3390/ijerph16244911
  16. Hannan MdA, Zahan MdS, Sarker PP, Moni A, Ha H, Uddin MJ. Protective Effects of Black Cumin (Nigella sativa) and Its Bioactive Constituent, Thymoquinone against Kidney Injury: An Aspect on Pharmacological Insights. Int J Mol Sci. 2021;22(16):9078. doi:10.3390/ijms22169078
  17. Black Seed. In: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed®). National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; 2006. Accessed October 3, 2023. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK501876/
  18. Al Mofleh IA, Alhaider AA, Mossa JS, et al. Gastroprotective Effect of an Aqueous Suspension of Black Cumin Nigella sativa on Necrotizing Agents-Induced Gastric Injury in Experimental Animals. Saudi J Gastroenterol. 2008;14(3):128-134. doi:10.4103/1319-3767.41731
  19. Sallehuddin N, Nordin A, Bt Hj Idrus R, Fauzi MB. Nigella sativa and Its Active Compound, Thymoquinone, Accelerate Wound Healing in an In Vivo Animal Model: A Comprehensive Review. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2020;17(11):4160. doi:10.3390/ijerph17114160