NOTE: To everyone asking where to get black seed oil, I link to the brand I use and recommend throughout the post. Just click “black seed oil” below to see it.
Have you heard about the remedy for everything but death? I’m talking about black seed oil AKA black cumin seed oil. When taken internally, the oil, cold pressed from the seeds of the nigella sativa plant, is said to cure everything from cancer to asthma (and pretty much everything in between). Is black seed oil the cure-all it claims to be?
I love a challenge, and I also try everything I recommend to my readers and clients, so of course I got my hands on the best black seed oil I could find, recommended to me by a client. Before I get into my story, let’s clear up some potential confusion about black seed oil.
First off, you’ll see black seed and black cumin seed used interchangeably. Black seed oil is pressed from the seeds of the nigella sativa plant and is also known as black cumin, black cumin seed, and black caraway. So “black seed” is a common name, but what you’re really looking for is nigella sativa, the flowering plant that produces the medicinal seeds. Black cumin seed, for example, isn’t the culinary cumin you’re thinking of. Confusing, right? Bottom line: what you want is nigella sativa oil.
The seeds of the nigella sativa plant have been used for thousands of years, probably since Ancient Egypt. There’s evidence the seeds were found in ancient Egyptian burial sites (source), and the seeds and oil have been used for healing and disease-fighting by Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine practitioners for thousands of years.
There are nearly a thousand studies showing black seed oil’s effectiveness, most notably for its ability to kill MRSA (a strain of resistant bacteria) and combat cancer tumor growth. It’s also used for its diuretic, antihypertensive, anti-diabetic, immune booster/modulator, analgesic, antimicrobial, anthelmintic, analgesic and anti-inflammatory, spasmolytic, bronchodilator, gastroprotective, hepatoprotective, renal protective, and antioxidant properties (source).
Here are Just a Few Notable Benefits of Black Seed Oil
Of the many ways that black seed oil benefits the body, the main six that figure prominently in the scientific literature are its ability to help prevent cancer, diabetes, obesity, hair loss, skin disorders, and infections like MRSA (source).
- Cancer:
- Inhibited tumor growth by up to 50%
- Increased the growth of healthy bone marrow cells by 250%
- Aids in the production of natural interferon
- Demonstrated strong anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties
- Helps protect the body against damage from chemotherapy and radiation
- Deactivated and/or killed certain types of cancer cells
- Kills MRSA
- Diabetes: improves insulin and glucose tolerance as well as Metformin without the side effects
- Kills h pylori
- Improves asthma
- Protects the brain
- Combats hair loss (when used externally and internally)
- Liver protective, speeds healing
- Anti-inflammatory, so it’s good for any -itis condition, such as reducing pain from arthritis
- Cardio-protective, lowers or balances blood pressure
- Anti-viral
- Anti-fungal, kills candida and molds
- Balances and boosts immune system
- See more here and here
UPDATE: I recently ran across this study about about how black seed oil positively impacts the thyroid in those with Hashimoto’s. The study shows that black seed oil significantly reduced TSH (from 6.4 to 4.1 mIU/l), anti-thyroid antibodies (anti-TPO, from 295 to 148 IU/ml), and modestly reduced body weight by 2.5 pounds compared with the placebo control. It would likely benefit hypothyroid people (like myself) also.
I mean really, in all the research I’ve done on black seed oil, I could not find anything negative, even from unbiased sources. It also doesn’t have any side effects when taken as directed (not exceeding 2 tbsp daily, but you really don’t even need that much).
How Does it Work?
Black seed oil has three potent phytochemicals: thymoquinone (TQ), thymohydroquinone (THQ) and thymol. It’s also rich in beta sitosterol, myristic acid, palmitic acid, stearic acid, palmitoleic acid, oleic acid, linoleic acid, arachidonic acid (fatty acids), proteins, vitamins B1, B2 and B3, calcium, folic acid, iron, copper, zinc and phosphorous. The three phytochemicals and active ingredients carry the potent anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-cancer, and medicinal properties, but the majority of its therapeutic perks probably have to do with the particularly potent active compound thymoquinone, which is an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory, anti-allergy, anti-cancer, and immune-supporting abilities. (source)
It’s best taken in oil form daily until you notice results (which typically takes 30 days for most supplements, but your own mileage may vary). Quality is of utmost importance. Always source nigella sativa oil that is 100% organic, cold pressed, and is not processed with hexane or any additives.
I’ve been using this one and really like it. I contacted the company to double-check their processing methods, and they replied, “when pressing our seeds, we do not use any type of chemicals. Our seeds are pressed using Perfect Press technology that has nothing added to it, it’s just the seed oil.” So there you go.
It has a very strong but nutty flavor and a pleasant cumin-like aroma. Make sure your black seed oil is in a dark glass container (oils react unfavorably with plastic) so it’s not damaged by light. The oil is dark, which is how it’s supposed to look. Lighter colored black seed oils may be overly processed or adulterated.
Black seed oil is reportedly amazing for skin and hair health when used topically, but I don’t yet have evidence of this. You can add a few drops to your skin creams or oils, or apply topically for healing burns, eczema, psoriasis.
How to Take Black Seed Oil
I use this black seed oil (<— clickable link). As mentioned, I researched the company and its pressing methods thoroughly, and it’s so far the best seed oil I’ve found. It’s organic and has a rich, nutty flavor and a dark color. It comes in a black bottle (don’t buy oils in plastic!) to protect the delicate oils from going rancid.
Starting dose is 1 tsp twice daily between meals; maintenance dose (after results have been achieved) is 1 tsp daily. You can take it straight or mix with honey.
My Experience with Black Seed Oil
I started taking black seed oil after a bad cold that lingered.The cold virus attacked my olfactory nerve, leaving me unable to smell or taste for weeks. Can you imagine how devastating for someone whose career depends on food? (side note: you can read all about that here)
Even though the virus was gone, my senses of smell and taste were damaged, and I was hoping for a miracle (it is the cure for everything but death, right?) to fully restore taste and smell. After only a few days, I noticed my sinuses improved, perhaps due to the seed oil’s anti-inflammatory properties. As an aside, I also noticed my nagging knee pain went away quickly– MUCH more quickly than when I take curcumin. I like burst training–sprints combined with walking–and my creaky knees sometimes inhibit these workouts, so I was thrilled with this side effect. I also noticed my blood pressure was 110/70 after taking the oil for a week. It normally runs about 10 points higher both systolic and diastolic, so that was interesting.
My other clients report a marked improvement with asthma and digestive symptoms. I’m also using the oil as part of my anti-candida protocols.
I’ve not been using the oil for long, and my sense of taste and smell is not fully restored, though there is improvement. I’m feeling optimistic and love sharing my discoveries and experiments with you! I’m also looking forward to seeing how the oil impacts my lipid and glucose levels when I get yearly blood work in a few months. Stay tuned.
Meantime, please let me know if you’ve tried black seed oil and how it’s worked for you.
UPDATE
You can read the story of how I recovered my sense of taste and smell here.
I’ve been taking black seed oil on and off fairly sparingly, alternating with curcumin, for their anti-inflammatory and other positive health benefits. I mentioned I would share my lipid panels with you, as I was curious if the black seed oil would have an impact. Here is the report, with comparison in the left hand column (where it says Sept/2016) from last year. This year is the right hand column where it says Nov/2017.
As you can see, there is an improvement, though slight, between this year and last. I don’t look much at total cholesterol, but rather the breakdown of triglycerides, LDL, and HDL. But I like to see cholesterol around 180 – 200 (mine is 187); trigs below 80 (mine is 56); LDL below 120 (mine is 99); HDL above 70 (mine is 75). You can read more on cholesterol breakdown here.
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Mary Vance is a Certified Nutrition Consultant and author specializing in digestive health. She combines a science-based approach with natural therapies to rebalance the body. In addition to her 1:1 coaching, she offers courses to help you heal your gut and improve your health. Mary lives in San Francisco and Lake Tahoe in Northern California. Read more about her coaching practice here and her background here.
Very interesting.
Indeed, in Islam we have the saying of our Prophet (pbuh) about this black seed which reads: the black seed is a cure for all diseases, except for death. Due to this we consume it at home regularly and make delicious sweets out of it.
It is also believed that eating the whole seed and crushing it with ones teeth is more beneficial than consuming its mere oil or using it as a powder. Further studies are needed to be carried on this great seed.
Interesting, thank you for sharing!
Just ordered a bottle of the Pannaseeda Black Oil, seemed a little more expensive then some other brands I looked at on Amazon but I’m going to try it. I will post back with results, excited to see what it’s all about
thank you 🙂
Great Kathy, please report back and let us know what you think!
Comment
I wonder if it Should it be taken under the tongue and how long should it should be taken befor having food. interested how it interacts with tumeric , aloe vera. echinecea b12 and zinc.
Hellow Mary,
I have Emphysema and Crohns Disease, and I have been taking the Nigella Sativa now for 2 weeks, I become so breathless, so I am praying the Nigella seed will heal me.
I live in Australia, and I am looking forward to your response.
Kind Regards,
Carmen
I can say black seed oil is really effective. Yes, it is a bit expensive but it can cure any illness such as insomnia which I suffer for many years. I just discovered it late but I am thankful that it has this product that can help me cure my insomnia. So, now I am able to sleep deeply and I feel active in the next morning. Thank to black seed oil especially the strong black seed oil.
my experience with black seed oil has been amazing. i recently developed bunion on my right foot and the pain and inflammation restricted my exercise routine which made me depressed. then i read about the magical powers of the black seeds and its anti-inflammatory properties. now, thanks to black seed oil, i have started with my daily walks and feeling a lot better.
That is awesome, thanks for sharing, Jennifer! I noticed it helped my occasional knee pain flare-ups too.
Very informative, I love soaking myself in a sea of information, and getting the right information needs extensive research. I have gone through several articles and there seems to be a strong potent in treating a multitude of diseases. I would highly recommend it
I have read somewhere that the black seed is effective for Alzheimer’s patients. It that a fact?
Can this cure herpes stage 2 ? I have herpes 2 for a year and I wanted to know if this can cure it? If there is anyone that has a testimony of what I’m going through please share it with me on my email: justinsanchez14696@yahoo.com.
I am blown away by this product. I am a real person, I’m not a robot, I don’t work for any company related to this product. I was told by a co-worker to try this oil because my asthma seems to be getting worse by the day. I started taken it daily and I CAN BREATHE! I haven’t used my albuterol for 2 weeks. I used BOS orally and also did a breathing treating in a pot. I also noticed that I am not as tired as before. Trust me, an asthmatic person would know that having an asthma attack leaves you exhausted. Try it, please.
Wow, that’s awesome Cassandra! It does have a benefit of helping asthma symptoms. I’ve heard similar testimonials from others. How exciting!
im also taking black seed oil for hiv and hsv2 im hoping to cure me for ever …one guy told me he cure from hiv by taking black seed oil 3 table spoons a day and 10000 vitamin d and other vitamins …so im crossing my finger to cure
I just came across your blog after doing some research on loosing my sense of taste and smell after a severe cold. I’ve been without my taste and smell since June of 2017.
As I read your story I kept saying to myself, this is me. This is how I felt, this is how I feel. I’m praying the information you provided and the products you used will also help me recover.
Do you have additional information somewhere else that you could share that could benefit me with my issue?
Wish me luck. Thank you.
Hi Cindy, assume you saw this post as well: https://www.maryvancenc.com/how-i-beat-hyposmia/
There isn’t a lot of info out there on hyposmia or anosmia. The biggest factor I believe is zinc deficiency. Make that a priority (and use the zinc I recommend in the post). I think the alpha lipoic acid and lion’s mane made a big difference too, but make sure to take everything I recommend. Google smell training as well; that helps. Good luck. let me know how it works out.
Hi Mary:
I just read that black seed oil is used to treat HIV and HIV2. Possibly a cure said Cindy David. I have HIV pretty sure that these flair up from stress or taking L-arginine, cause sores and then heal up. Rarely get them but I would like to get rid of this disorder. I have tried a few cured diet based. I am a guy not a good cook so diet based cooking for me is out. This oil is easy and I have vitamin D3. If I can get the Pannaseeda oil. Where do you get it?
Morgan, I link to the type I use in the article: http://bit.ly/2CFzF1I
Hi Mary I am HIV positive will black seed oil cure the virus I urgently need help
Hi Molly, there is no cure for the HIV virus, but there are several therapies (and medications) that will boost the immune system. I’d recommend working with a doctor.
No cure! No real treatment! I am hoping Black Seed Oil will help!
Tinnitus … Tried the wonderful oil ‘CBD” no results ….so gasping for soundness of quietness I will try Black Seed Oil
Have you used the Black Seed Oil for hair growth?
Sambo, I have not personally used it for hair growth, no.
Blackseed is awesome! We have been using it for many years now and it translates from culture to culture. Gerrod Huggins did a short video https://www.guideyourhealth.org/single-post/DrSebiBlackseedOil covering different ways to use it.
It’s great that you point out to use only cold pressed!
Hi, Mary
I have read your blog with interest. Little did I know I have been using black seed all my life, being used in almost all our cooking. I hail from India and it is used as a common spice. But as a Muslim from the time, I came to know the value through faith tradition (Saying of the Prophet Muhammad.{peace be upon him} ) I am in the sixties and I work in a hospital and do not go through any infections or flu. Seldom go to see a doctor. I generally add a few seeds to my tea on daily basis.
Is it Nutty though?
Jesus, taste is kind of subjective, but I guess it has a nutty type flavor, sure. Not overwhelmingly so. More cumin notes.
My blood pressure literally goes through the roof sometimes getting up to the 200s over 130s. it is so scary! An nothing has yet helped! I want to try this and I really hope it lowers it and improves my kidney function.
Am so happy to discover this,I will like to follow up on this miraculous blackseed .
Lecey, let us know how it goes! Make sure to check thyroid and adrenal function.
Have you heard of using Blakeseed oil with other essential oils in a breast balm for breast health.
where can i find blackseed oil in kenya?
How can I use the black seed for fibroid. Thanks
Please where can I get some to buy.
Because I don’t want to buy fake one.
Kindly provide me with the company address
Thank you
I link to the brand I recommend all over the article.
WHERE CAN I BUY PURE BLACK SEED OIL. I LIVE IN SAN DIEGO CALIFORNIA THANKS SO VERY MUCH
Darryl, I link to the brand I recommend throughout the article: https://activationaffiliates.com/?a=271387&c=148&p=r&s1=
Hi
How do one get the black seed oil,
I’m in Namibia, and very interested.
Wow ! So interesting. Please I live in Germany where can I buy the black seed oil? I’m afraid if I order custom will not let it through!
Hi, where i can buy black cumin oil. Im from davao city philippines.
I have been using the black seed oil as recommended here and I am thrilled with the results. So many small ailments have gone away since I started using this both topically and orally.
I was having severe arthritic pain in my shoulder, when I used the oil topically it helped immediately. I have been able to go back to exercising which I had to stop due to pain. I use the oil on my skin and hair and notice a big difference in the softness of my hair and clarity of skin. For years I could not use a razor on my legs due to a reoccurring rash, this oil cleared it up . . . finally!
Most importantly, I have noticed a difference in my digestion. After having part of my colon removed a few years ago, I was always battling bloating and digestive issues. This oil has been so kind and healing to my intestines, and it has only been 2+ weeks taking it orally. This is an amazing product, and thank you for posting all the information about it in one place. Healthline.com has some information but yours is much more extensive. My doctor was at first hesitant to read your site but ended up being impressed with your thorough and well researched information. THANK YOU!
Rebecca, that’s amazing! Thanks for sharing this post with your dr.
Can this heal acid reflux??? Will it trigger it,im curious. I know your not a doctor.
It would not heal acid reflux alone, no. You would need to understand what’s causing the reflux: food allergies? h plyori? low stomach acid? https://www.maryvancenc.com/how-to-get-rid-of-heartburn/
I’ve come across some interesting info on black seed oil healing gastritis, and it may help heal gastro tissue as a support to another treatment.
ok thank you Mary
I also heard 100% pure Aloe vera juice can reverse acid reflux. It does it by healing the lower esophageal sphincter and strengthens it. Marshmallow root as well as extra virgin coconut oil.
I have started using black seed oil 3 days ago. I have a terrible, itchy rash covering most of my back, top of legs, sides of torso and back of my neck. I am taking a teaspoon a day plus applying it to my skin. I am thinking of upping my dose to 2 tsp a day? I feel some relief already. My daufhter has tendonitis in her wrist so after reading this will apply it to her wrist also. I so hope this works. After googling EVERYTHING abput this oil, I found your article the most interesting. Thanks!
Angela, yes, I would start on 2 tsp daily (taken in divided doses, meaning 1 tsp AM and 1 tsp PM, for example). Also ideally you’d want to figure out what’s causing the rash. While Black Seed Oil can certainly help, you may have better results using it as part of a protocol targeting the specific issue. For example, if it’s eczema or and autoimmune related skin issue, making appropriate diet changes can help too. And to be clear I don’t think applying the oil topically helps with pain– it will nourish the skin and hair and soothe skin irritations, but I’m not confident that it will act as pain relief or an anti-inflammatory unless taken internally. Glad you found the info useful!
I want to know if anybody try this and has it works. I haven’t found any information about how long you have to take it before you notice results. I been taking black seed oil capsules for couple of weeks. I have been experiencing itching n a little burning sensations.
Hi
Can black seed oil also cure hepatitis b ?
Is black seed oil good for the eyes? Can it be applied topically around the eyes?
Lisa, you can apply it topically, yes, but I’m not sure specifically of its benefits for the eye area. it could possibly be a good anti-inflammatory for the delicate skin.
Thank you
can BSO drops be put inside the nose/nasal area to help in dry sinuses/nasal passages? will it burn the delicate tissues ?
Jon, I’ve never heard of anyone doing that, so I can’t say. The neti pot with nasal salts works well for that.
can genital herpes cure by this black seed oil? I need an answer please reply me if you read this
Apple, no, nothing will “cure” herpes. It’s a virus, and it cannot be killed. There are certain medications/supplements/compounds that can help your body deactivate the virus. Black seed oil may help by supporting the immune system, but no, it will not “cure” herpes.
hello Mary, first of all thank you for your spirit of serving, and sharing, great info to help people, thats a gift from GOD, that many for whatever reason don’t use as often, so thank you, I also researched this black seed oil, because I’ve been dealing with high uric acid, I now changed over to an alkaline based diet, and I’ll await my great expectations from black seed oil, to address that in conjunction with lifestyle changes, and lastly you’ve had some responders ask about Hiv and herpes cure, although I don’t suffer from that I believe its humanity responsibility to help others, so there’s promising information , if anyone like to research ,theres a great herbalist,Dr.Sebi that many may find helpful toward health improvements, it’s POWERFUL,POWERFUL, information, so until then take care everyone GOD BLESS YOU all……….and(ps) thank you for not publishing email, another testament of your integrity
Fantastic article – Since my family and I have started using Black Seed oil, we’ve noticed so much difference. In Australia we’ve been using Double Strength Black Seed oil by The Black Seed Co – https://www.theblackseedco.com.au/products/double-strength-black-seed-oil
All I know is when I stop taking Black Seed oil I feel unwell. Would love to know if you’ve tried The Black Seed Co brand and what you think of it?
Katherine, the only brand I’ve tried is the one I link in the article (which I’ve researched and vetted for quality).
Breathing difficulties, lung infections, lung inflammation. I am taking two full spoon a day . I have been hospital April 2018 and stay in the hospital up to 4 days. They given me lots injections. My lung suffered badly. November 2018 I had a xrays, Dr show me xrays big scar left on my lung. December 2018 same problem started again. I started taking black seed oil one full spoon in the morning end one spoon in the evening. After taking spoon full black seed oil wait 2 minutes and take one tablespoon manuka doctor honey twice a day. Continues until get better and felling normal. I buy black seed oil from Dubai, when I visit to the Dubai. Very good black seed oil sale by Dubai, no body cheat with any product. Anyway good luck. I thought I was going to die 8 months ago, but I am survived taking black seed oil regularly. Balvir.bhachu@live.co.uk
Hii everyone I’ve heard that black seed oil cures HIV. Is this true.
Izzybek, there is currently no “cure” for HIV, but there are many therapies one can use along with treatment to boost the immune system. Do not believe the spam circulating that any one doctor has a single “cure.” It doesn’t work that way. No single product can cure HIV at this time.
Can blackseed oil help with genital warts outbreak?
Chris, it does boost the immune system (which, when run down, can trigger outbreaks), but it won’t cause warts to disappear. You have to have them removed. Black seed is anti-viral though, so it could prevent or lessen future outbreaks.
Can blackseed oil cure multiple sclerosis?
JM: Let me clear about something: black seed oil will not “cure” any disease, but used with a larger protocol, it can help reverse or put certain diseases into remission.
Is there a regimen to follow….. like take it for so long and then off for so long? I’m curious.
Hi Kelli, you can take it long term (meaning 6+ months), but it would depend on what you’re using it for. Some conditions may warrant longer use. I typically recommend taking a break from certain herbs after 3-6 months bc they may lose effectiveness.
I’m not fond of taking oil share with me can you buy the Black Cumin oil in soft gel What I ran on this sight I would like to give it a try . I’m 68 of age and I have been living with all kind of illness most of my life with in the past year I have had problem with bloating gut pain thought out my body . since I move to the state of Texas I have been giving added on health problems which it has me very concern and worried about the bloating and the IBS. I hope you will be able to share with me how I can buy this black Cumin oil in soft gel JahNese
Hi JahNese, I have only ever used it in this form, but you could try this one https://maryvancenc.ehealthpro.com/products/annatto-tocotrienols-with-black-cumin-seed-oil
from the other company I recommend.
Hi there! Looking for a miracle for my sick dog, who has aplastic anemia. Can dogs take this????
Hi Jamie, I would definitely not give black seed oil to dogs without asking a vet and thoroughly researching it. Some plants that are beneficial to humans are poisonous to dogs.
Hello,
I fell five rungs from the ladder last Wednesday, and landed right on my left heel.
The orthopedic doctor did an x-ray of my left foot and did
not find any fracture. However, he did not x-ray the upper parts above the heel and ankle, like the calf and thigh.
My heel is very painful. There was also a large purple bruise patch on the sole, but that has subsided.
There is also still swelling on the rear heel, ankle and
around the Achilles tendon area.
I can hardly walk and am limping with those four-legged
walking aids.
I fear I may also have injured the plantar fascia ligament
at the bottom of the foot, which connects the heel bone
to the toe bones.
There is also some pain in my caft and thigh, and I am
not sure if there may be other injuries to the bones or
ligaments there, like the fibula bone, since the doctor did not examine the leg above the heel and ankle.
I wonder if black seed oil, rubbing it on the painful
heel and other parts of the leg, may help to heel the
ligaments and bones ?
Tham, I doubt it, but it can be taken internally for inflammation. I would recommend using traumeel or topical arnica.
Hi mary
Where can I buy black seed oil I’m in South Africa I’m very munch interested in this product’s.
Hello i have been taking half a teaspoon daily of black seed oil, however i noticed my salivary gland stone started coming up,( i had had an operation for it) and i did read it has a fair bit of calcium, so just wondering. It does help me sleep much better though
I have used this oil for 8 years. I have had arthritis in my knees and low back, but I have no pain from arthritis any longer.
I had cancer and treated it with the oil and a vegan diet.
If you take this oil you should become vegetarian because meat products goes against the human organism and gets in the way of healing. I blend veggies and eat 1.5 pounds of raw blinded veggies a week with an apple. I been 14 years since my diagnoses.