Black cumin seeds come from a small flowering shrub called Nigella sativa. These seeds are mostly used for culinary purposes and are a favorite spice added in many dishes.
What Is Cumin Seed Oil?
Like the black cumin seeds, the essential oil that is extracted also has several uses and health benefits. Cumin seed oil is extracted from the seeds of black cumin through the cold pressed technique.
The chief constituents of black cumin seed oil are thymol, thymoquinone and thymohydroquinone.
Cumin seed oil blends well with other oils such as lavender, bergamot, sandalwood, lemon and jasmine essential oil. Packed with nutrients and health benefits, cumin seed oil is a multi-purpose home remedy for many ailments.
Uses of Cumin Seed Oil
Cumin seed oil is used in the following ways:
- As a flavoring agent and spice in many dishes
- In hair conditioners
- In acne treatments
- In creams, lotions and moisturizers
- To treat wounds
- As a massage oil
Research has demonstrated remarkable health benefits of black cumin seed oil. One can reap many benefits by using it topically or consuming it internally.
Benefits of Cumin Seed Oil
Listed below are some health benefits of cumin seed oil:
1. Promotes liver health
Every toxin present in the body gets processed through the liver. The bile produced in the liver helps in digesting fats and keeps your body healthy.
Those who suffer from poor liver function greatly benefit from cumin seed oil, as this essential oil speeds up the healing process and helps to detoxify the body.
2. Aids weight loss
Black cumin seed oil has anti-obesity properties that play a significant role in weight loss. Regular use of this essential oil helps decrease body mass index, reduce waist circumference and aids in weight loss.
3. Helps fight cancer
Rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals, black cumin seed oil can be beneficial to naturally treat cancer. Thymoquinone and thymohydroquinone, both main constituents of black cumin seed oil, are known to shrink the size of tumor cells and fight cancer.
4. Benefits hair loss
Black cumin seed oil has excellent benefits for the hair. Cumin seed oil contains antihistamines, such as nigellone, which help treat hair loss associated with alopecia.
This essential oil also contains antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that help eliminate dandruff and reduce dryness of scalp.
5. Combats diabetes
Cumin seed oil initiates regeneration of pancreatic beta-cells, increases the serum insulin concentration and decreases serum glucose levels in the blood, making this oil an effective remedy to fight diabetes.
6. Maintains skin health
Black cumin seed oil is rich in Vitamin A, B, C, zinc and magnesium. These essential vitamins and minerals are excellent for overall skin health as they moisturize the skin and keep it supple.
Regular use of black cumin seed oil helps fight signs of aging and gives a youthful glow.
7. Treats a persistent cough
Cumin seed oil is a tried and tested remedy for a cough with effective results. This essential oil relaxes the bronchial muscles, helps alleviate a persistent cough and helps soothe a sore throat.
8. Boosts immunity
Black cumin seed oil is considered to be excellent for your body’s immunity as it increases the white blood cell production in the body. It helps the body produce more natural killer cells, which improve the body’s overall defense against infection.
Side Effects of Cumin Seed Oil
When used in the right quantities as a flavoring agent or for medicinal purposes, cumin seed oil is safe for all individuals.
- Cumin seed oil should never be used in the undiluted form. It must be diluted with a carrier oil before use.
- While the oil is safe to use when pregnant, consuming large amounts is unsafe as it can stop or slow down uterine contractions.
