Black cumin oil is packed with over 100 substances such as important trace elements, vitamins, amino acids, proteins, fatty acids, and much more. Black cumin seeds and their oil have been used for centuries by the ancient Greeks, Egyptians, in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine, and the benefits are many.
The benefits of using black cumin oil
Nigellone and thymoquinone are the most studied substances in black cumin seeds. They are interesting because they have potent antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anti-histamine effects both internally and externally. Both the seeds and the oil have historically been used for:
- Allergies
- Skin problems such as acne, eczema, psoriasis
- Hair loss, scalp issues
- Inflammation
- Upset stomach
Omega 3, 6, and 9
Black cumin oil is naturally rich in essential fatty acids like Omega 3 and 6. It has therefore been popular to take internally for:
- High blood pressure
- Dry skin and skin problems
- High cholesterol
How do you use black cumin oil?
Internally
The recommended amount is 1-3 teaspoons of black cumin oil per day. The oil has a peppery and slightly bitter aroma.
Note! Black cumin oil should not be taken by pregnant or breastfeeding women, those about to undergo surgery, those on medication, or those with anemia, diabetes, or epilepsy.
1. Eat black cumin oil
The easiest way is to take a teaspoon of oil with each meal. The oil can be taken as is or mixed with lemon juice or honey to mask the taste.
2. Drizzle on food
Black cumin oil is delicious drizzled over yogurt or salad.
3. Add to food
Boost your smoothie or whip up a creamy sauce or dressing with black cumin oil. It can also be mixed into stews and similar dishes. Keep in mind that the oil breaks down when heated and should therefore be added at serving after the food is cooked.
4. Drop into a warm drink
Add a few drops or 1 teaspoon of black cumin oil to a cup of warm tea.
Inhale the aroma
5. Massage
Massage pure black cumin oil directly onto the chest or dilute it with another carrier oil and massage in. Place your hands over your nose and breathe in the aroma. The scent of the oil is said to be muscle-relaxing and can be soothing for troublesome coughs and labored breathing.
Externally
6. Apply to the skin
Black cumin oil can be applied directly to the skin as is or dabbed on acne, skin problems, skin irritations, insect bites, red and swollen skin. It can be diluted with other oils if it feels too strong. The oil can also be applied to damp skin or mixed with a little water for easier absorption.
7. Steam bath
Add 10 drops of black cumin oil to a steaming hot water bath. Cleanse your face from dirt and makeup. Carefully lean your face over the water bath (be careful not to burn yourself) and cover with a towel to trap the steam. Steam your face for 5 minutes. This is especially good for clogged pores, impure skin, and acne-prone skin.
8. Scalp treatment
For scalp issues such as dandruff, fungus, inflammation, or hair loss, pure or diluted black cumin oil can be massaged directly into the scalp.
Leave on for at least 30 minutes and then wash out with shampoo (massage in shampoo first, then water). It is also fine to mix a few drops of black cumin oil with your shampoo.
9. Hair mask
For a moisturizing treatment, black cumin oil can be massaged into the lengths of the hair. Tie your hair up in a bun or wrap a towel around your hair and leave on for at least 30 minutes.
Then wash out the oil with shampoo (massage in shampoo first, then water). It is also good to mix a few drops of black cumin oil into your regular conditioner to care for extra dry hair and strengthen damaged hair.
