A natural immune system modulator, black seed oil contains thymoquinone. Studies show it keeps the immune system balanced so it doesn’t overreact or underreact to inflammation and infections. It helps prevent and treat inflammatory health conditions including allergies, digestive distress, colds, and even cancers.
The Nigella sativa seeds that make up black seed oil have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may help reduce the risk of some chronic diseases. Black seed oil is thought to support healthy blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and digestion. It may also reduce the symptoms of autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis and aid weight loss.
In one clinical trial, participants who took a black seed oil extract twice daily for six weeks had lower levels of total and “bad” low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. One of the reasons is that the oil might inhibit fat storage in the body, a major cause of high cholesterol and blood fats.
Black seed oil might also have appetite suppressant properties. One study found that taking the oil for 12 days reduced appetite and body weight in obese women.
Black seed oil may interact with certain medications including blood thinners and high-blood pressure drugs. In combination with certain blood-clotting drugs, it might increase bleeding and bruising. It might also lower blood sugar and increase sleepiness, so you should talk to your doctor before using it if you have diabetes or low blood pressure. It might also slow blood clotting during surgery, so you should stop using it at least two weeks before a scheduled procedure.