Lifestyle Desk: Black cumin has been used for hundreds of years around the world to cure various ailments and diseases. Studies have also found the effectiveness of black cumin against various diseases. It is useful as seed as well as oil.

Black cumin oil

Many people use black cumin oil for some physical problems. Researchers also have the opinion in favor of it, that is, it has the support of modern science. This oil not only reduces acne breakouts but can also be quite helpful in high blood pressure. Besides, there are other surprising benefits. Here are seven benefits of black cumin oil.

* Lowers high blood pressure: A review of four studies suggests that black cumin oil may help lower blood pressure. Adults saw significant improvements in blood pressure after consuming half a teaspoon of black cumin oil twice a day. Scientists are still not sure why black cumin oil lowers blood pressure. But they hypothesize that this oil's high thymoquinone may be the hero in lowering blood pressure. "Thymoquinone can reduce inflammation," says Arica Hochet, a nutritionist at the online medical practice Paloma Health. This may contribute to blood pressure management.'

* Lowers Cholesterol: 'Kalogera oil is rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids, which increase good cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol in our body,' says Skyler Griggs, nutritionist and founder of Newbury Street Nutrition. In one study, obese women who consumed 3 grams of black seed oil per day for eight to 12 weeks had a greater reduction in bad cholesterol (LDL) than women who did not consume black seed oil. Note that both groups were on a low calorie diet. In another study, patients with type 2 diabetes who consumed 3 grams of black cumin oil daily for 12 weeks had significant reductions in LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Both high levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides increase the risk of heart disease.

* Regulates weight: Some studies suggest that black cumin oil may also help lower body mass index (BMI) in obese individuals or those with type 2 diabetes. However, scientists have not said anything for sure yet. In one study, one group of obese women was given 3 grams of black cumin oil per day for 12 weeks, and another group was given a placebo (which has no therapeutic value). It was found that women in the first group lost weight at a significant rate. Both groups consumed a low-calorie diet during the study. Another study also noted the effects of black cumin oil on weight loss—an average weight loss of 4.4 pounds or 2.1 kilograms.

* Treats acne: You can also apply black cumin oil to treat acne by reducing skin inflammation. Applying a cream rich in 20 percent black cumin oil to the acne area has shown surprising results. In the study, one group was given a 20 percent black cumin oil lotion and another group was given a 5 percent benzoyl peroxide lotion. Both were equally effective in reducing and healing acne. Of the two, black cumin oil lotions had fewer side effects (eg, burning and itching).

* Moisturizes the skin: Applying black cumin oil moisturizes the skin and relieves some skin diseases (eg eczema). However, research on this topic is still limited. In one study, applying black cumin oil twice daily for four weeks reduced hand eczema. It was just as effective as the over-the-counter Eucerin lotion and the prescription topical steroid betamethasone.

* Helps in hair growth: Many people claim that the use of black cumin oil makes hair thicker and reduces hair loss. However, there is no strong research to substantiate this claim. According to researchers, the proteins and fatty acids present in black cumin oil stimulate hair growth by increasing blood circulation. A study applied a mixture of coconut oil and black cumin oil and a mixture of coconut oil and other oils to four areas of the shaved head. It was found that the area where the mixture of coconut oil and black cumin oil was applied had a higher density of hair than the other areas.

* May increase sperm count: Some studies suggest that consuming black cumin oil may increase sperm count in infertile men. In one study, one group of infertile men was given 2.5 ml of black cumin oil daily and another group was given a placebo. After two and a half months, it was found that those who consumed black cumin oil had a relatively higher sperm count. Even sperm motility has increased.

How to use black cumin oil? Black cumin oil can be consumed as a capsule or liquid. Nutritionist Hoshet Cole recommends using 100 percent pure black cumin oil. However, one should consult a dietitian or doctor regarding the use of black cumin oil. According to some doctors, consuming 1-2 teaspoons of black cumin oil daily is safe. But according to nutritionist Hoshet, 1/2 teaspoon should be consumed in the beginning. This will give the body time to adjust.

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Who should not use black cumin oil: Black cumin oil is safe for most healthy people. It can be dangerous for some people. This oil may interact with certain medications, such as beta blockers. So, if you are on medication, you should talk to your doctor. Even if you have kidney problems, you need a doctor's advice. Cases like kidney failure have occurred with the use of this oil. Black cumin oil is not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women due to limited research. The use of this oil may cause some mild side effects, such as burning or itching (when applied to the skin), constipation, vomiting, nausea and flatulence. Short-term (three to four months) use of black cumin oil has not shown any serious side effects.