Profile: Black Seed Oil

Black seed (Nigella sativa) oil is a health supplement and is also used as a carrier oil in aromatherapy. It is not an essential oil (though I have seen black seed essential oil advertised) but is a fixed oil; it does not evaporate like the aromatic essential oiIs. It has been used in Mediterranean and Arabic cultures for centuries as food and medicine. It is known as black cumin, black caraway, onion seed or coriander seed, though it is not actually related to any of these.

Black seed oil has many medicinal properties including antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal actions. It is used topically for psoriasis, sore joints, eczema and generally dry skin. Also, it is used internally for digestive issues, headaches, intestinal worms, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular health and much more. It contains over 100 nutrients, including omega fatty acids. The National Institute of Health published a paper describing multiple benefits of black seed oil and is worth reading: Black Cumin (Nigella sativa L.): A Comprehensive Review on Phytochemistry, Health Benefits, Molecular Pharmacology, and Safety - PubMed (nih.gov).

In ancient Islamic writings, it was said to cure “every disease except death.” Black seeds were found in Tutankhamen’s tomb which shows their importance in ancient Egyptian culture. In modern aromatherapy, it is used as a carrier oil for blends to treat microbial infections, digestive issues and to help balance blood sugar levels. It is a slightly viscous oil, not too thick, golden to brownish liquid. It is edible and has a peppery, warm, and slightly bitter taste. Black seed oil can be purchased in liquid or capsule forms.