Black seed oil is a potent superfood that contains antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. Its key ingredient, thymoquinone, is responsible for many of its benefits. It has been shown to boost immune function, reduce inflammation and act as a liver cleanser.
It is also thought to prevent metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke. One study found that taking 2.5 mL of black seed oil twice a day for 8 weeks reduced diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol and fasting blood sugar.
Applied to the skin, black seed oil is said to treat acne, psoriasis, eczema and vitiligo. It is also believed to help heal wounds and burns. It is also thought to improve hair health by nourishing and hydrating it.
Black seed oil has been shown to be anti-inflammatory and reduce the symptoms of allergies, including hay fever. In a small trial, people with seasonal allergies put black seed oil drops into their noses, and 9 out of 10 reported that their itchy eyes, stuffy nose and other allergy symptoms improved.
You can find organic black seed oil in capsule and liquid form at most health stores. Make sure you choose 100% pure therapeutic grade, USDA-certified organic black seed oil to get the most benefit. Ideally, you will also choose a product that has been nitrogen-flushed. This removes the oxygen that would otherwise cause the oil to oxidize and spoil.