Black seed oil is a substance that is extracted from the seeds of Nigella sativa, a plant that is native to Egypt, the sub-continent and Asia. Black seed and black seed oil have long been used as herbal medicine for skin conditions, such as eczema, psoriasis, acne and dry skin, allergies, colds and more serious health conditions, such as asthma, arthritis, cancer and diabetes. 

Scientists with a range of specialties have researched the possible benefits of black seed oil. However, it is important to note that many studies to date have used cells or animals as models, and there is limited research available on the effects of black seed oil in humans. A review of 11 studiesTrusted Source has shown that black seed supplementation may help lower people’s body mass index (BMI) and lower people’s waist circumference. The study participants did not report any severe side effects from taking this supplement. Trusted Source on rats fed a high fat diet shows that black seed oil may be able to help significantly decrease body weight and insulin resistance. Black seed oil may beTrusted Source beneficial by helping clear symptoms of skin conditions such as eczema, acne, or psoriasis. Black seed oil may also hydrate hair, soften skin, and act as a moisturizer, although there is a lack of scientific evidence to confirm these benefits.

Low blood pressure: Black seed might lower blood pressure. In theory, taking black seed might make blood pressure become too low in people with low blood pressure. Surgery: Black seed might slow blood clotting, reduce blood sugar, and increase sleepiness in some people. In theory, black seed might increase the risk for bleeding and interfere with blood sugar control and anesthesia during and after surgical procedures. Stop using black seed at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery. Medications for diabetes (Antidiabetes drugs)Interaction Rating: Moderate Be cautious with this combination.Talk with your health provider.

The appropriate dose of black seed depends on several factors such as the user's age, health, and several other conditions. At this time there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate range of doses for black seed. Keep in mind that natural products are not always necessarily safe and dosages can be important. Be sure to follow relevant directions on product labels and consult your pharmacist or physician or other healthcare professional before using. These days there's always some buzzy supplement that can rock our well-being world, and black seed oil is the latest on the list to peak people's interest. But if you're new to this particular conversation and wondering what is black seed oil? And better still, what are the actual benefits of black seed oil that makes it so special compared to anything else bottled or capsulized, you've come to the right place. Formally speaking, black seed oil is extracted from the fruit of the Nigella sativa plant, a small flowering plant that grows in Southwest Asia, the Middle East, and Southern Europe. And it's been around for a while: It's commonly used in Ayurveda, a holistic medicine practice that originated in India, and Unani Tibb medicine, which is traditionally practiced in Muslim cultures in South and Central Asia. Recorded use of black seed oil dates back to the 1600s, Rachelle Robinett, RH (AHG) founder of Supernatural and herbalist, tells me.

Black Seed Oil

Robinett says you can take it straight by the spoonful, and capsules are also common. She notes that a typical dose may be something around 800mg per day (in capsule form) or about a teaspoon per day of the oil. Consider investing in a medium-size bottle of black seed oil ($34) or give black seed cold-pressed oil capsules ($18) a try. Zeitlin personally recommends taking the oil versus the supplement form, and stick to half a teaspoon if a full teaspoon is too much for you. What if you can't get enough of black seed oil? Can you use it in your meals? Kind of! "If you like the flavor, mixing it into broths or soups, teas or even salad dressings—one of my favorite places to put savory medicinal herbs—is a great way to seriously up level a meal," Robinett says.

When you scan the label, you'll notice a variety of beneficial compounds listed, including things like omega-3, -6, and -9 essential fatty acids and cholesterol-lowering plant compounds called phytosterols. But the majority of its therapeutic perks probably have to do with a particularly potent active compound called thymoquinone (TQ), says Pedre, which is "an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory, anti-allergy, and immune-supporting properties." Today, black cumin seed oil is sold in health food stores, grocery stores, and online as a liquid oil, as gel capsules, and in a blend with other extracts such as hemp oil. To reap its varied benefits, you can ingest it or apply it topically to the skin.