
1-What is black seed oil (Nigella sativa)?
2-What are the uses of black seed oil (Nigella sativa)?
3-What are the drug interactions of black seed oil (Nigella sativa)?
4-What are the dosages and methods of using black seed oil (Nigella sativa)?
5-What are the pharmaceutical forms of black seed oil (Nigella sativa)?
6-What are the storage conditions for black seed oil (Nigella sativa)?
7-How to use black seed oil (Nigella sativa)?
8-What are the side effects of black seed oil (Nigella sativa)?
9-What are the contraindications for using black seed oil (Nigella sativa)?
10-What are the precautions for using black seed oil (Nigella sativa)?
What is black seed oil (Nigella sativa)?
Black seed oil is extracted from the black cumin seeds, also known as Nigella Sativa, an ancient plant. It is sometimes referred to as “black cumin.” The benefits of black seed have been known for thousands of years, and people have used it to treat many health issues.
Today, black seed oil is used as a dietary supplement rich in a natural compound called thymoquinone, an antioxidant that helps eliminate disease-causing free radicals and inflammation.
Some promote the benefits of black seed oil in treating various conditions such as acne, arthritis, diabetes, and even weight loss. However, these claims still require sufficient scientific studies to be proven.
Uses of Black Seed Oil:
Research on the uses of black seed oil is still limited, with many studies conducted on animals or in laboratory settings, and only a few on humans. Some potential benefits of black seed oil include:
🩺 Lowering Blood Sugar:
A large review found that type 2 diabetes patients who took black seed oil, black seed, or black seed tea experienced reduced fasting blood sugar levels. However, it is important to note that the oil was used alongside medication, diet, and exercise.⚖️ Weight Loss:
A study conducted on 45 women with overweight or obesity showed that taking 2000 mg of black seed oil daily for 8 weeks contributed to reduced appetite, decreased BMI, weight, waist circumference, and body fat percentage.🤧 Relieving Allergy Symptoms:
Taking black seed oil orally daily may help improve allergy symptoms, such as a runny nose, sneezing, and itching.🌱 Acne:
Creams or gels containing black seed oil are used to alleviate acne due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. One study showed that using black seed oil gel twice daily for 60 days helped reduce acne severity by 78%.🩹 Skin Issues:
Some studies suggest that black seed oil may be beneficial in treating vitiligo, eczema, psoriasis, or promoting wound healing.🤕 Rheumatoid Arthritis:
A study found that daily consumption of black seed oil for one month helped reduce symptoms of inflammation, the number of swollen joints, and blood markers of inflammation.🌬️ Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD):
Small studies showed that taking 500 mg of black seed oil twice daily for 4 weeks improved asthma symptom control. Additionally, taking 1 gram of pure black seed oil twice daily for 3 months improved lung function in people with COPD.💪 Metabolic Syndrome:
One study indicated that black seed oil might help postmenopausal women improve blood fat and sugar levels, potentially benefiting those with metabolic syndrome.💇♀️ Hair Health:
Black seed oil is often added to hair care products due to its ability to reduce hair loss. One study showed that using a black seed oil lotion daily for 3 months helped increase hair density and thickness.🎗️ Cancer:
A 2022 study indicated that thymoquinone in black seed oil may help slow the growth of cancer cells or eliminate them. A scientific review also showed that it may enhance the effectiveness of chemotherapy and radiation treatments.🧑⚕️ Male Infertility:
Studies suggest that black seed oil may help improve sperm motility, increase sperm count, and enhance semen volume, potentially benefiting male infertility.
What are the drug interactions of black seed oil (Nigella sativa)?
You should inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications, herbs, vitamins, and dietary supplements before starting to use black seed oil.
Black seed oil may interact with many commonly used medications, such as:
– Blood thinners, such as aspirin or warfarin.
– Blood pressure medications, such as amlodipine.
– Immunosuppressants.
– Diabetes medications.
– Antidepressants.
– Sedatives.
– Diuretics.
– Phenytoin (a medication for epilepsy).
– Sildenafil (a medication used to treat erectile dysfunction).
– Certain other supplements and herbs, especially those that affect blood sugar, blood pressure, or blood clotting.
What are the doses and methods of using black seed oil (Nigella sativa)?
There is not enough scientific evidence to determine the recommended dosage of black seed oil. The appropriate dose may depend on the person’s age, health condition, and other factors. In general, safe doses of black seed oil typically range between 1–2.5 grams per day, and may go up to 5 grams for a duration of 4–12 weeks.
The dosage of black seed oil may vary depending on its intended use, as follows:
🩺 A 2019 study used doses of 0.7 g, 3 g, and 5 ml daily to regulate blood sugar levels.
⚖️ A 2021 study used a dose of 2 g daily to support weight loss.
💧 A 2021 study used a dose of 2.5 ml daily for 8 weeks to reduce blood lipids.
What are the pharmaceutical forms of black seed oil (Nigella sativa)?
Black seed oil is available in the following forms:
🧴 Liquid oil bottles (black seed oil in liquid form).
💊 Capsules.
What are the storage conditions for black seed oil (Nigella sativa)?
🗃️ Store black seed oil at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight.
How to use black seed oil (Nigella sativa)
It is recommended to follow these guidelines when using black seed oil:
🩺 Consult your doctor before starting black seed oil, especially if you have chronic conditions or are taking medications.
🏪 Buy from a trusted and medically licensed source—preferably 100% pure and intended for therapeutic use.
📦 Follow the dosage recommended by your doctor or as indicated on the product label.
⛔ Do not exceed the recommended dose to avoid toxicity.
⚠️ Report any unusual symptoms while using black seed oil, such as skin rash. In such cases, stop using the oil and consult your doctor immediately.
Side Effects of Black Seed Oil
Black seed oil is generally considered safe for healthy adults when taken orally in moderate amounts and for short periods, up to 3 months. It is also safe for use on the skin as an oil or gel for a limited time.
However, in rare cases, black seed oil may cause kidney damage or toxicity when consumed in high doses. Additionally, applying it to the skin may lead to rashes and blisters, a condition known as “contact dermatitis.”
Some potential side effects of black seed oil include:
Nausea
Bloating
Indigestion
Heartburn
Menstrual irregularities
Low blood sugar
Contraindications for Using Black Seed Oil
Black seed oil should not be used without consulting a healthcare professional in the following cases:
Allergy to black seed or any of its components.
Pregnant or breastfeeding women without consulting a doctor.
Children without consulting a doctor.
Individuals preparing for surgery, as it may increase the risk of bleeding.
Precautions for Using Black Seed Oil
Black seed oil should be used with caution under the supervision of a healthcare professional in the following cases:
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Bleeding disorders
-
Kidney diseases
-
Liver diseases
Resources :
- Altibbi. زيت حبة البركة.
- Cleveland Clinic. Black Seed Oil Benefits: Are They Real? - Retrieved on April 14, 2025.
- Alena Clark, PhD. What Are the Health Benefits of Black Seed Oil? - Retrieved on April 14, 2025.
- Rachael Ajmera, MS, RD. What Are the Health Benefits of Black Seed Oil? - Retrieved on April 14, 2025.
- WebMD. Black Seed - Uses, Side Effects, and More. - Retrieved on April 14, 2025.
- Kat Gál. Benefits of Black Seed Oil. - Retrieved on April 14, 2025.