Black seed oil is extracted from the seeds of the Nigella Sativa plant. This plant is native to southwest Asia.

Black seed oil has a long history dating back over 2,000 years. In fact, according to some sources, it was discovered in the tomb of King Tut. Nigella Sativa seeds are sometimes used in Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine and have a slightly bitter taste. It can also have the taste of black pepper. When using BSO as a liquid oil adding honey can improve the strong flavor that it has by itself.

There is scientific evidence to support some but not all uses for black seed oil. Thymoquinone (TQ) is the major active compound in black seed oil (BS0). Many pharmacological effects of TQ, such as anti-inflammatory, hypoglycemic, antioxidant, immune stimulator, and have been reported. TQ can be considered as a biomarker for BSO, but its content in the commercial products is rarely reported. TQ content varies based on the oil source and extraction method.

Black seed oil was used in folk medicine to treat several illnesses, such as cough, fever, diarrhea, and abdominal disorders, but only a few clinical trials were conducted either on the oil or its purified compound.

Be sure to research articles on the oil as it aids in diabetes, asthma control, arthritis, allergies, headaches, inflammation, blood pressure and weight loss.

When choosing an oil look for:

• Cold-pressed oil and organic. This ensures the oil is in its most natural state. Read labels carefully to make sure that other ingredients haven’t been added to the product you choose.
• Look for certified products. You may choose to look for familiar brands or products that have been certified by Consumer Labs, The U.S. Pharmacopeial Convention, or NSF International. They provide a certain level of testing for quality.