Black Seed Oil: Health and Beauty Benefits

Some research shows that black seed oil could benefit skin conditions such as acne. This may be due to the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties associated with black seed oil.

One study found that using a topical gel made with black seed extract twice daily for 60 days reduced acne severity by 78%. Researchers noted significant improvement in the number of acne lesions compared with a control group.

There is limited scientific research on the effects of black seed oil on psoriasis symptoms in humans. However, some people may still find it beneficial as part of a broader professional treatment plan.

Animal studies suggest that black seed oil could reduce inflammation and other symptoms of psoriasis. Other small studies found that some topical remedies, including black seed oil, could help reduce psoriasis symptoms.

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.

Black seed oil contains a compound called thymoquinone, which may stimulate tissue growth and promote wound healing.

Studies in animals have found that thymoquinone may help treat burns, excisions, and diabetic wounds due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial effects.

Still, additional studies are needed to understand whether black seed oil and thymoquinone could also promote wound healing in humans.

Thanks to its antimicrobial and antioxidant properties, black seed oil is often added to hair care products, including hair masks and shampoos.

Though many of these products claim to improve the shine, strength, volume, and texture of hair, there is very little research on the benefits of black seed oil for hair health.

Some research suggests that black seed oil could be beneficial for treating vitiligo, a disorder that causes loss of pigmentation in the skin.

One study in 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 6 months.

Researchers suggest that the benefits of black seed oil may be due to its ability to spread melanin within the skin. Melanin is a type of natural pigment found in your hair, skin, and eyes.

Studies have shown that black seed oil has powerful anti-inflammatory properties.

This could benefit multiple aspects of health, as some research suggests that inflammation could contribute to the development of many chronic conditions, like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

Though the exact way it works is unclear, black seed oil appears to promote weight loss and decrease body fat.

A study of 45 women with overweight or obesity showed that taking 2,000 mg of black seed oil daily for 8 weeks decreased appetite and reduced body mass index, body weight, waist circumference, and body fat.

Some research shows that black seed oil could be beneficial for stabilizing blood sugar levels.

In fact, one review showed that black seed could help improve multiple markers of blood sugar control, including insulin levels and blood sugar levels during fasting and after a meal.

Several studies have found that black seed oil could alleviate symptoms of eczema, a skin condition characterized by dry, itchy skin.

One small 2012 study found that black seed oil was as effective as betamethasone cream, a type of corticosteroid, at reducing hand eczema severity of hand eczema when applied topically twice daily for 4 weeks.

An animal study also showed that oral and topical administration of thymoquinone, a compound found in black seed oil, decreased inflammation and improved symptoms of eczema in mice.

However, more recent, high quality studies in humans are still needed.

Research suggests that black seed oil could help prevent metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

One study of 55 people with high blood pressure had participants take 2.5 mL of black seed oil twice daily for 8 weeks. At the end of the study, those who received this treatment had several positive outcomes.

They experienced reduced levels of diastolic blood pressure, total cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and fasting blood sugar, all of which are components of metabolic syndrome.

However, remember that a well-rounded, whole-food diet and an active lifestyle are the best prevention against metabolic syndrome. Supplements like black seed oil work best as an addition to a healthy lifestyle.

Black seed oil is a powerful herbal ingredient associated with a variety of health and beauty benefits.

In particular, it may ease inflammation, lower blood sugar levels, improve skin and hair health, and help you manage your weight.

It’s also versatile, affordable, and widely available at most pharmacies and health stores, making it a great ingredient to have on hand.