- ANTI-INFLAMMATORY
Black seeds, also known as nigella sativa or black cumin, have been used in many cultures for centuries because of their numerous health benefits, including pcromoting brain health. Black seeds contain thymoquinone, a bioactive compound with strong anti-inflammatory properties. Consuming black seeds has the potential to reduce inflammation in the body, which has been linked to a number of long-term conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, asthma, cardiovascular disease, hypertension (high blood pressure), rheumatoid arthritis, and others. (The Canadian Centre of Science and Education reports on the anti-arthritic properties of black seeds.)
2. POWERFUL ANTIOXIDANT
Black seeds contain flavonol triglycoside (quercetin and rutin), a potent antioxidant that protects against cellular damage. These substances help the body eliminate harmful free radicals, reducing oxidative stress and the risk of developing chronic diseases such as diabetes and cancer. According to ScienceDirect, thymoquinone is a powerful antioxidant that scavenges free radicals and protects cells from damage.
3. IMMUNE SYSTEM SUPPORT
The immune-stimulating properties of black seeds may boost the body's natural defenses against illness and infection. People have used black seeds for centuries to boost immunity and prevent bacterial and viral infections. According to the prestigious journal Nature (quoting HS Mahmoud 2021), black seeds supplementation may help strengthen the immune system.
4. DIGESTIVE HEALTH
Studies suggest that black seeds enhance digestive health by calming the gastrointestinal tract and alleviating symptoms like indigestion, gas, and bloating. Furthermore, they may have anti-ulcer properties, which protect the stomach lining. According to Medical News Today, black seeds may improve digestive health by alleviating symptoms such as abdominal distention, indigestion, nausea, and so on. Furthermore, ResearchGate cites Farzaneh Shakeri's work at North Khorasan University, which shows that black seeds improve gastrointestinal health.
5. HEART HEALTH
Black seeds may help your heart by lowering blood pressure, cholesterol, and improving blood vessel function. These effects could lower the risk of stroke and heart disease. In fact, ResearchGate has reviewed articles on the cardiovascular benefits of black seeds from 1960 to March 2012.
6. WEIGHT CONTROL
Research suggests that black seeds can help with weight loss by promoting fat loss and increasing metabolism. Furthermore, black seeds may help control blood sugar, improve weight management, and lower the risk of obesity-related problems. Moreover, ScienceDirect cites N. Naghsh's (2023) work, which shows that black seed supplementation resulted in significant weight loss in adults.
7. ANTI-CANCER POWERHOUSE
Black seed aids in the prevention and treatment of cancer. According to the American Association of Immunologists, besides cancer, thymoquinone, the active compound in black seed, "has been shown to have immune regulatory effects in various diseases," reports The Journal of Immunology.
While we focus on the 7 health benefits of black seeds, there are numerous health benefit reports beyond this article.
For instance, did you know that many people use topically applied black seed oil to enhance the appearance and condition of their skin and hair? While its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may help treat skin conditions such as eczema, acne, and psoriasis, its nourishing properties can promote healthy hair growth and prevent hair loss. According to Medical News Today, black seeds improve skin conditions and promote wound healing.
The Serene Research Team
DISCLAIMER: This article is for educational purposes ONLY and should not be construed as a prescription. As with any supplement, you are advised to consult your doctor especially if you have any underlying medical conditions or are currently on medications.