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19 September 2024
Renowned as an exotic seed found on Middle Eastern bread and pastries, black seeds are often included with sesame seeds, but they are not just a nice decoration on top of flat-breads – their health benefits are now validated particularly the black seed oil.
Numerous scientific peer-reviewed studies confirm the benefits of black seed oil both for the skin and well as overall health and well-being.
With virtually no side effects, the healing benefits of black seed oil are quite unbelievable, and, amazingly, so many people have never heard of it. So, let’s look at some interesting facts on how it can benefit the skin.
What is black seed oil?
Black seed oil is made from the seeds of the black cumin (Nigella sativa) plant, which belongs to the ranunculus family (Ranunculaceae). The black cumin plant is native to southwestern Asia, the Mediterranean and Africa.
Impressive antimicrobial benefits
Strains of bacteria and viruses that are antimicrobial-resistant are becoming virtually impossible to treat, including HIV, staphylococcal, tuberculosis, influenza, gonorrhea, candida and malaria.
In a study conducted by Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College in India, researchers determined just how potent black seed oil is against some of these superbugs and paired it against several antibiotics, such as Amoxicillin, Gatifloxacin and Tetracycline. According to the study, “Out of 144 strains tested, most of which were resistant to several antibiotics, 97 were inhibited by the oil of black cumin.”
Benefits to skin and hair
Eczema
In a study conducted by Iranian researchers, Nigella saliva was found as effective as the skin cream Betamethasone (a steroid medication prescribed for eczema) in improving quality of life and decreasing the severity of hand eczema. As long as you don’t have an allergic reaction to black seed oil.
Benefits Hair
May aid in the treatment of vitiligo
Studies also suggest that black seed oil is beneficial in the treatment of vitiligo, a disorder that causes loss of pigmentation in the skin. One study of 33 people with vitiligo found that applying a cream made with black seed oil to the skin twice daily improved pigmentation in the hands, face, and genital region after six months of use.
Researchers suggest that the benefits of black seed oil may be due to its ability to spread melanin within the skin.
May help treat psoriasis
However, it is important to note that this study used black seed oil combined with other ingredients, so there’s no way to know in this case whether black seed oil was behind the beneficial effects. More research is needed to investigate how black seed oil may affect psoriasis in people.
For reducing acne and acne scarring
Its anti-inflammatory properties further help in reducing redness and swelling—common issues associated with acne. This two-pronged approach makes black seed oil a compelling option for acne treatments.
A study even revealed that a 20% black seed oil lotion was more effective against mild and moderate acne than a 5% benzoyl peroxide lotion.
With new research revealing the benefits of black seed oil, look out for it in your skincare.
Not just for skin benefits, the health benefits of this amazing oil are also well documented. This article is only an extract from the full article which will be featured in the summer issue of APJ Journal.
Look out for it in early March. The complete article will also provide additional information on the amazing health benefits of black seed oil on systemic conditions and overall health.