Black seed oil comes from the Nigella sativa plant, also known as black cumin or kalonji. This tiny black seed has a plethora of health and beauty benefits, thanks to the three natural phytonutrients it contains: thymoquinone (TQ), thymohydroquinone (THQ) and thymol. These three black seed benefits include helping prevent high blood pressure, diabetes and obesity, as well as boosting skin, hair and nail health.
It has been used in folk medicine for centuries, earning the Arabic approbation habbatul barakah, or “the seed of blessing.” Avicenna wrote that black seeds and their oil stimulate the energy in the body and help overcome fatigue and dispiritedness. The seeds can be taken orally or applied to the skin. They help with digestive problems including indigestion, loss of appetite and diarrhea and are helpful in reducing symptoms of asthma, bronchitis and rheumatism.
One animal study found that oral black seed oil reduced eczema severity in mice. Another study found that applying a topical black seed oil reduced skin lesions in patients with psoriasis.
When choosing a black seed oil to use, look for a premium option that is 100 percent pure, therapeutic grade and U.S. Department of Agriculture certified organic. This will ensure the quality of the product and maximize its healing properties. You should also speak with your doctor before beginning any new supplement regimen to make sure that it is safe for you. The oil can be purchased online or at select health stores.