This one is rich in minerals and vitamins. Contains, among others: vitamin E, vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B3, calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, potassium, phosphorus, copper and selenium. It is made from a beautiful flower that could be considered an ornamental plant, i.e. black cumin.
Black cumin (Latin: Nigella sativa) is a plant that has been valued in cuisine and natural medicine for centuries. Although tiny, black, they are inconspicuous, they contain a lot of vitamins and minerals for which the body will be grateful. This plant belongs to the buttercup family. It has characteristic, feathery leaves that look like thin threads. The flowers are white or pale blue, and after blooming they turn into a bulging capsule containing numerous black seeds. Black cumin naturally occurs in the regions of Southwest Asia, the Mediterranean and Africa.
The seeds are pungent, slightly bitter and spicy in taste. Many people point out that they resemble a combination of onion, black pepper and oregano. When chewed, they release an earthy, nutty aroma. The taste of the oil is very distinct, peppery and often “scratchy” in the throat – this is due to the high content of thymoquinone.
Black cumin oil is cold pressed. When the seed pods turn brown, the plants are mowed and the seeds are cleaned and dried. Then they are pressed at a temperature below 40 degrees C. After this process, they must “rest” for a few days to allow the resulting sediment to settle to the bottom. Black cumin oil is sensitive to light, so it must be stored in dark glass bottles.
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Black cumin oil provides great support for the body, although its taste leaves much to be desired. However, the benefits it offers justify including it in your diet. What exactly can happen after consuming this oil? Numerous studies (clinical and animal) indicate that it may be a good supplement to the diet of people with diabetes. The main active ingredient – thymoquinone – helps stabilize blood glucose levels and increase insulin production while reducing insulin resistance.
Moreover, research published in Journal of Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders suggest that black cumin oil is effective in the fight against excess weight – in a group of women who consumed 2000 mg of oil, weight loss, smaller waist circumference and decreased appetite were noticed. Substances such as nigellon make black cumin an effective weapon in the fight against hair loss, increasing its density and thickness. The effect of black cumin on the respiratory and immune systems is also good. Research from 2021 confirms its role in alleviating asthma symptoms through its anti-inflammatory and bronchodilator effects.
In turn, research published in Egyptian Journal of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology point to antifungal properties of the oilthanks to compounds such as thymol and thymoquinone. Additionally, Pakistani scientists suggest that it may help inhibit the spread of MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) bacteria.
Thanks to its strong antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, this oil helps reduce acne breakouts. Studies have shown that gel with black cumin extract used twice a day can reduce the severity of acne by 80%. within two months. It soothes skin inflammation and itching. Additionally the high content of vitamin E and vitamin A neutralizes free radicalswhich helps maintain skin firmness and delays the formation of wrinkles.
The oil has also been tested for improving sex hormone levels in men. What’s more, it lowers systolic and diastolic blood pressure and reduces LDL cholesterol levels. Its consumption can also reduce the risk of cancer – Croatian scientists recorded as much as 52%. decrease in the number of cancer cells in animal models.
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Introducing black cumin oil into your daily routine is a great step towards strengthening your body, but it is worth doing it wisely. Before you start, make sure the oil is cold pressed and certified organic. For dosing, there is currently no universal dose, it is best to start with small amounts, e.g. half a teaspoon a day and observe the body’s reaction. Over time, you can increase the dose slightly, but should not exceed a tablespoon a day if you take the oil directly. Of course, it can also be used in dishes. When using oil on the skin, it should always be diluted in a carrier oil (e.g. sweet almond) before applying to the face to avoid irritation.
Black cumin oil has a specific, spicy flavor that can be a perfect complement to many dishes. Nevertheless it should not be subjected to long-term heat treatment at high temperatures so as not to lose its properties. Black cumin oil goes well with stews, soups and meat dishes. You can easily add it to fruit and vegetable cocktails or to warming tea – the peppery note of black cumin goes perfectly with the spices. This is a great option for dressingsjust mix it with honey and lemon – a delicious and healthy salad dressing is ready.
Despite its many benefits, black cumin oil is not for everyone. Sometimes it may cause an allergic reaction. Pregnant and breastfeeding women should not use it due to lack of sufficient safety research. Additionally, black cumin oil may affect blood clotting, so people should stop taking it for at least 2 weeks before surgery. People with a sensitive stomach also need to be careful. In turn, people with low blood pressure and diabetes should consult the consumption of black cumin oil with a doctor.
Sources: Terazgotuje.pl, draxe.com
