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Updated on November 7, 2023
Dubbed the "remedy for everything but death" in ancient texts, black seed oil has only recently hit the mainstream.
Thanks to an abundant amount of recent research, black seed oil is becoming widely known for its unique health benefits. From supporting blood sugar regulation to enhancing hair growth, this “miracle herb” might just have it all. So, let’s take a closer look at its benefits and the research behind it.
Black seed oil comes from the seeds of Nigella sativa—a flowering plant native to Asia and the Mediterranean (1). Black seed oil is sometimes referred to black caraway oil, or black cumin oil.
Black seed oil has a rich history. It was found buried in King Tut’s tomb in Egypt (purportedly to accompany him in the afterlife). It’s mentioned in religious texts like the Bible and Quran—where it’s praised for its healing properties. Even Cleopatra reportedly used it in her skincare routine to maintain a radiant complexion.
The majority of black seed oil’s health benefits come from the bioactive compound thymoquinone (2). While thymoquinone makes up the majority of active ingredients in black seed oil, other ingredients include thymohydroquinone, thymol, T-anethole, carvacrol, fatty acids (such as linoleic acid, oleic acid, palmitic acid, and stearic acid), and nigellone.
As a versatile herbal ingredient, black seed is found in various dishes and foods. However, black seed oil is also sold as a dietary supplement, often in the form of capsules or liquid—which will be the focus of this article.
In recent decades, researchers have steered their efforts toward black seed oil and its potential health benefits. While some of these potential health benefits require further studies, the research is already looking promising. That said, here are the top nine science-backed benefits we know so far.
As obesity rates skyrocket, it’s no surprise that the general population has a serious issue with insulin resistance, thus leading to issues with blood sugar regulation. In fact, about 37.3 million Americans have diabetes (3).
Yet, maintaining proper blood sugar control is important for optimal energy levels, brain health, cognitive function, kidney health, healthy weight maintenance, and overall health and wellness. And yes, black seed oil is showing some serious promise in this domain.
Research shows how black seed oil may help improve fasting blood glucose, post-meal blood glucose, and insulin resistance in those with type 2 diabetes (4). An earlier study also indicates that black seed oil may help maintain good glycemic control in the average individual (5).
Additionally, animal studies demonstrate the power of the active ingredient thymoquinone when it comes to lowering blood glucose levels (6).
While more research is needed, these preliminary findings show the incredible power of black seed oil when it comes to proper blood sugar regulation.
More people are overweight now than perhaps any other time in human history (7). And carrying around extra body fat can lead to chronic disease, poor sleep, and perhaps worst of all—a shortened healthspan (i.e. the period of life in which you remain in good health). Black seed oil is by no means a magic bullet to weight loss, but it may help your efforts.
A 2018 scientific review determined that black seed oil may lead to a moderate decline in body weight, waist circumference, and BMI (8). More recently, a 2020 study indicated that black seed oil has the ability to reduce appetite and improve body composition (9).
Native Note: If you’re looking to lose weight, one of the first things to figure out is whether you’re a sugar burner or a fat burner. Find out in this blog → Sugar Burner vs. Fat Burner: Which One Are You? (5 Signs to Look For)
Black seed oil may naturally help relieve discomfort related to gas, including bloating and discomfort from indigestion.
Research shows that black seed oil can aid in combating H. pylori bacteria, which, if left untreated, can lead to stomach ulcers, inflammation of the digestive tract, and in rare cases, stomach cancer (10, 11).
Unbeknownst to many consumers, black seed oil can be found in an array of hair masks and products. When applied directly to the hair, black seed oil’s antioxidant properties may offer some protection against damage or breakage (12).
More research would be useful here to verify these claims, as there is little research behind them.
With its antioxidant properties, black seed oil is well-equipped to support heart health and cardiovascular function. Research shows that black seed oil can help maintain healthy blood pressure and cholesterol levels (13, 14).
As a result, black seed oil may also improve markers of various metabolic diseases, such as stroke, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.
Black seed oil may prove useful when treating acne and improving overall skin health. Research shows that a hydrogel containing black seed oil improved the symptoms of acne vulgaris (15). Scientists theorize that this is due to black seed oil’s anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
Acne aside, this incredible oil has also shown to be beneficial for eczema and psoriasis. While more research is necessary, small studies are already demonstrating that black seed oil can reduce inflammation and improve psoriasis and eczema symptoms (16, 17).
The most prominent bioactive compound in black seed oil—thymoquinone—may help accelerate wound healing (18). Research indicates that it does this by promoting tissue growth, reducing inflammation, and providing antimicrobial effects. It’s also possible that this oil may help treat burns and diabetic wounds, but more research would help solidify these claims.
Black seed oil may help improve some aspects of infertility. For instance, researchers have explored how antioxidant supplements can improve semen parameters, including semen quality (19).
Additional studies are needed to further determine the mechanisms behind this. Yet, since black seed oil contains plenty of antioxidants, it’s theorized that it could help some individuals struggling with specific infertility issues.
While it’s been said above, it can’t be said enough. Researchers have demonstrated numerous instances in which black seed oil has reduced inflammation. This effect may help reduce the incidence of many common diseases, such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, and more (20).
Black seed oil demonstrates considerable potential. While more research is undeniably needed, there’s a reason it’s been used for thousands of years. If you’re curious about adding it to your routine, check out the questions below.
Black seed oil is considered to have only minimal side effects, if any. As with any supplement, you should discuss your options with your doctor before adding it to your regular routine. Black seed oil might not be suitable for children or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Yes, but it’s recommended to avoid taking it daily for longer than 12-week durations, as long-term use may impact your kidney health.
This depends. Black seed oil is found in various dosages. The best thing you can do is consult your doctor and read the label on your supplement thoroughly (ie., how many mg of black seed oil is in each serving and the recommended dosage).
Krista Bugden is a freelance writer with a BS in Human Kinetics from the University of Ottawa. She spent 5 years working as a kinesiologist, giving her the first-hand experience she needed to write well-researched, scientific, and informative blogs.
This content is for informational and educational purposes only. It is not intended to provide medical advice or to take the place of such advice or treatment from a personal physician. All readers/viewers of this content are advised to consult their doctors or qualified health professionals regarding specific health questions. Neither Dr. Chad Walding nor the publisher of this content takes responsibility for possible health consequences of any person or persons reading or following the information in this educational content. All viewers of this content, especially those taking prescription or over-the-counter medications, should consult their physicians before beginning any nutrition, supplement, or lifestyle program.
