Black seed oil, sometimes also known as black cumin seed oil, is an extract that is taken as a supplement for weight loss and can also be applied to the skin to help with itching, flaking, and psoriasis.
This little-known herbal extract is a powerful antioxidant with a broad range of uses, and if you are interested in trying it, you might be at a loss for where to start.
Fortunately, our researchers have come up with the ten best black seed oils on the market. We’ll take a look at those before checking out the science behind the benefits of black seed oil.
Research
Rankings
1. Mother Nature Black Seed
Madre Nature Black Seed is a cold-pressed black seed oil that has the added benefit of being certified organic.
That means there’s a far lower chance that there will be any trace of pesticides or synthetic fertilizers in it. The eight ounce bottle is made of amber glass, so your black seed oil will be protected from degradation from light and will last you a long time.
Moreover, it’s standardized to contain 1.08% thymoquinone, so there’s no lack of potency. Thanks to all of these advantages, it’s our top pick.
2. Zhou Black Seed Oil
Zhou Black Seed Oil is a 100% pure and organically certified black seed oil grown in Israel and processed only using cold pressing techniques, which preserves the antioxidant properties of the oil.
At eight ounces per bottle, it’s a great choice for regular or high-volume users who would go through capsule-based supplements too quickly.
3. Amazing Herbs Black Seed Oil
Amazing Herbs Black Seed Oil is a cold-pressed all-natural black seed oil that is standardized to contain at least 0.95% thymoquinone, the active ingredient in black seed oil.
The moderately-sized four ounce bottle is protected from visible light damage, and users find that it’s very effective at reducing inflammation and pain.
The natural processing and large volume make this one of the best liquid form black seed oils out there.
4. Healths Harmony Black Seed Oil
Healths Harmony Black Seed Oil makes a capsule-based black seed oil supplement that delivers 500 mg of pure black seed oil per capsule. The capsules are cellulose-based, making them vegan friendly.
Further, the only other ingredient is a small amount of vitamin E to prevent the oil from going bad, making this black seed oil supplement highly pure.
As far as capsule-based black seed oil products go, Healths Harmony Black Seed Oil makes one of the best.
5. Maju Superfoods Cold Pressed Black Seed Oil
Maju Superfoods makes one of the most potent black seed oils on the market. The black seed oil used in this product comes exclusively from Turkey, which is reputed to have nutrients that help the nigella sativa plant produce more of the biologically active compounds in black seed oil.
This careful growth process allows for Maju Superfoods Black Seed Oil to have over 1.5% thymoquinone, so if you are looking for the most concentrated form of black seed oil, this is what you should choose.
6. NusaPure Black Seed Oil
NusaPure Black Seed Oil makes a capsule based black seed oil that’s a solid option if liquid black seed oils aren’t your preference. The cellulose capsules make it easy to get a precise dosage of 500 mg, and supplement design is quite clean.
The downside with this product, which is shared with all capsule-based black seed oils, is that you can’t use it topically, and it’s less efficient for high doses.
7. Sweet Sunnah Black Seed Oil
Sweet Sunnah Black Seed Oil is a pretty standard liquid black seed oil product, though it does have a reputation as being a bit more mild than some other black seed oils, which can have a particularly distinctive taste to them. At 16 ounces, the bottle is also large enough for high volume users.
8. Best Naturals Black Seed Oil
Best Naturals Black Seed Oil comes in a giant 16 ounce container, making it well-suited for people who go through a lot of black seed oil on a regular basis.
It’s not organically certified, but it is standardized to contain at least 0.95% thymoquinone, so its potency is decent.
9. Alive Herbals Black Seed Oil
Alive Herbals Black Seed Oil comes in a large 16 ounce container, and is certified organic, making it a good pick if you care about purity and want a lot of black seed oil.
The only drawback is the fact that the bottle is plastic, which means it may not block as much light.
This could prove to be an issue with such a large bottle, as many people will be storing it for quite a while, meaning that there’s more of an opportunity for degradation of the active compounds.
10. Heritage Products Black Seed Oil
Heritage Products Black Seed Oil comes in an eight ounce amber glass bottle, and while it’s a decent product it doesn’t have any of the perks that other competitors offer.
The levels of its active ingredient aren’t standardized or reported, and it doesn’t have an organic certification, making it hard to rank this product any higher.
Category winners
Best black seed oil overall: Mother Nature Organics Black Seed Oil
Mother Nature Organics makes a fantastic black seed oil that’s great both for topical application and for taking as a supplement. The opaque bottle protects the delicate antioxidants inside, and the purity is excellent. For an all-purpose black seed oil, there’s no going wrong with Mother Nature Organics.
Best black seed oil for hair: Maju Superfoods Cold Pressed Black Seed Oil
Maju Superfoods is the perfect black seed oil for repairing and moisturizing dry, damaged hair thanks to its carefully-sourced Turkish-grown black cumin seeds and its cold-press processing. These properties preserve as much of the antioxidant capabilities of black seed oil as possible, which enhance the hair follicle repair capabilities of this oil.
Best black seed oil for treating acne: Mother Nature Organics Black Seed Oil
The minimal processing and extremely pure formulation of Mother Nature Organics make it our pick for using black seed oil to treat acne, whether on your face, shoulders, chest, or back. The simple formulation makes it ideal for moisturizing and fighting acne-related inflammation in your skin.
Best black seed oil for inflammation and pain: Zhou Organic Black Seed Oil
Zhou Organic Black Seed Oil is certified organic and 100% pure. Moreover, it’s got an excellent balance of omega 3, 6, and 9 fatty acids, which work together to combat inflammation and reduce pain.
Best black seed oil for joint pain: Zhou Organic Black Seed Oil
Zhou Organic Black Seed Oil works equally well as a topical treatment or as an oral supplement, and this versatility serves it well when it comes to treating joint pain. The high purity and high concentration of natural anti-inflammatories makes it an especially attractive pick for aching, painful joints.
Best black seed oil for weight loss: Healths Harmony Black Seed Oil
These black seed oil capsules make it easy to incorporate a solid dose of black seed oil into your usual routine, and this convenience helps garner our recommendation for weight loss. Two capsules twice per day are all you need to follow the same protocol used in some of the leading studies on black seed oil for weight loss.
Who should buy black seed oil?
Black seed oil is safe for most individuals and can help treat a wide range of conditions, including blood pressure, metabolic syndrome, and systemic inflammation. It also helps to treat skin conditions such as eczema when used topically.
Black seed oil may be safe for pregnant women, but more research is needed. This population should only use it under the supervision of a medical professional. Children should avoid black seed oil due to the lack of studies surrounding its efficacy and toxicity.
How we ranked
Heritage Products Black Seed Oil is a pretty simple product but lacks a lot of features like organic certification and testing reports, which is why it ranked last. Alive Herbals provides an organic black seed oil, but it comes in a plastic bottle leaving it open to light oxidation. Despite Best Naturals not providing an organic certification, it is standardized to contain at least 0.95% thymoquinone, which is why it ranked higher than the previous two.
NusaPure provides a potent black seed oil product with 500mg per serving. It didn’t rank higher because, like all capsule products, it’s limited to oral consumption and benefits. In 5th spot, Maju Superfoods provides one of the most potent black seed oil products on the market, containing over 1.5% thymoquinone. It is also extremely pure, coming from only Nigella sativa plants in Turkey. Healths Harmony Black Seed Oil is another high-quality capsule supplement that includes vitamin E to prevent the black seed oil from going bad. At 500mg, it delivers a solid dose for a fair price.
Zhou provided an organically certified black seed oil with the maximum amount of antioxidants thanks to the cold pressing extraction technique. Zhou’s commitment to purity is why it ranked in our top 3. Amazing Herbs Black Seed Oil comes in a dark bottle to prevent against oxidation and is standardized to contain at least 0.95% thymoquinone. It is also naturally processed, making it one of the purest products on the market.
Madre Nature provides a cold-pressed organic certified black seed oil to ensure purity and bioavailability. It comes in a dark glass bottle to prevent light oxidation and is standardized to contain 1.08% thymoquinone. With a competitive price, it’s really no surprise that it took the top spot.
Benefits
Black seed oil is a powerful antioxidant. Initial laboratory research into the potential therapeutic applications of black seed oil focused on its ability to capture free radicals and protect cells from oxidative damage.
A scientific study published in the journal Phytotherapy Research looked at the antioxidant potential of black seed oil under a variety of conditions (1).
The researchers found that black seed oil had protective effects against oxidative damage by hydrogen peroxide, a source of free radicals that is generated in the body on a regular basis.
These basic laboratory results suggested that black seed oil could prove useful for the broad range of chronic diseases linked to inflammation, and later work proved this hypothesis correct.
Black seed oil could help lower blood pressure. Many antioxidant and anti-inflammatory herbal extracts, like garlic and beet extracts, have proven useful for treating high blood pressure, and black seed oil is no different.
Systemic inflammation and oxidative damage has been linked to cardiovascular disease risk factors, including high blood pressure, so the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of black seed oil could explain the link.
A clinical trial published in 2008 in the journal Fundamental and Clinical Pharmacology examined the effects of two different doses of black seed oil, compared to placebo, on blood pressure in a group of subjects (2).
The subjects were randomized into one of three groups. The first group received a placebo oil to take, while the second and third groups received 200 mg and 400 mg of black seed oil per day, respectively.
The subjects were followed for two months and their blood pressure was measured throughout the study. The results showed that the black seed oil successfully reduced blood pressure compared to the placebo, and moreover, the effect was dose dependent.
In other words, the higher dosage brought about a greater decrease in blood pressure. The researchers also noted a decline in LDL cholesterol that was associated with the black seed oil supplement.
Black seed oil could help you lose weight. A number of studies have examined whether black seed oil could be a good natural supplement for weight loss.
The basic science supports this hypothesis: black seed oil is rich in healthy oils, and its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties bode well for controlling body weight.
A recent meta-analysis published in 2018 in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology aggregated the results of several studies on black seed oil and obesity (3).
Though the authors cautioned that many of the studies were small and were not all designed the same way, they found evidence for moderate effects of black seed oil on body weight, BMI, and waist circumference, all of which are metrics used to quantify weight loss.
Animal research also suggests that black seed oil could help treat some of the negative metabolic side effects of obesity as well. One study published in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology in 2004 in a group of rats that were overweight (4).
The researchers found a number of interesting effects. First, the rats decreased their food intake by 25%, which directly lead to weight loss. In addition, the rats given the black seed oil extract showed a decrease in blood lipids and an increase in insulin sensitivity.
High blood lipids are a known risk factor for cardiovascular disease, and poor insulin sensitivity is a hallmark for risk of type 2 diabetes.
Losing weight is one thing, but it appears that black seed oil could also help you improve your overall metabolic health, which is potentially an even bigger payoff.
Black seed oil can treat skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. Due to the fact that black seed oil is, after all, and oil, it lends itself well to topical application.
It functions well as a moisturizer, and given that it already has strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, it is a good candidate for treating skin conditions linked to dryness and inflammation.
A clinical trial published in 2013 by researchers in Iran compared the effects of black seed oil on hand eczema to two standard treatments, betamethasone and Eucerin hand moisturizer (5).
The subjects were randomly prescribed one of the three treatments and were followed for 28 days. The researchers found that black seed oil, applied to the hands twice per day, was more effective than Eucerin and equally effective compared to betamethasone.
Black seed oil has also been researched for its ability to treat psoriasis, in a study published by researchers based in India in 2012 (6). Their study used mouse skin cells with a mouse version of psoriasis to examine whether black seed oil could be a useful treatment for the itchy, scaling rashes caused by psoriasis.
The researchers found that black seed oil was able to increase the thickness and health of the mouse skin cells, suggesting that black seed oil could be used to treat psoriasis as well as eczema.
Side effects
Black seed oil appears to be quite safe, with no reported adverse effects among several clinical trials on black seed oil for weight loss (7).
Studies in rats have found that, even at high doses, black seed oil does not cause toxic damage to the liver, providing further evidence for its safety (8).
When used on the skin, it carries a small risk of contact dermatitis, which is an allergic reaction that can cause a rash. A case study in a dermatology journal describes this risk, which is a phenomenon observed in many plant-derived compounds (9).
Recommended dose
For the primary long-term health benefits of black seed oil, the necessary dose is fairly small: 200 to 400 mg of black seed oil appears to be effective, though the higher end of this dose range might be more effective.
Studies on weight loss have used somewhat higher doses of 2000 to 4000 mg per day. In both cases, doses are split into two equal portions taken in the morning and in the evening.
For treating skin conditions, a twice daily application is also used, and the proper “dose” is whatever amount of oil is necessary to lightly massage onto the affected area.
FAQ
Why is black seed oil called the “herb from Heaven”? Many Arab nations refer to black seed as the “Herb from Heaven” because it is said to be able to treat every illness but death. Since its initial discovery, it’s been used to treat just about any illness, from hypertension and inflammation to paralysis and diabetes (10). Black seed oil is also loaded with antioxidants and has been shown to have anti-cancer, anti-bacterial, and anti-diabetic qualities.
Does black seed oil help with obesity? Yes, there is some evidence that black seed oil may help people lose weight and combat obesity. A study involving rats show that black seed oil extract could increase insulin sensitivity and decrease blood lipids, which can ultimately help prevent cardiovascular disease (11).
Can black seed oil lower cholesterol? Black seed oil may lower cholesterol, but more studies are needed to confirm these effects.
Is black seed oil used topically? In terms of topical use, black seed has been used to help treat eczema and blisters. There’s also evidence that it can be used directly on the scalp to improve hair regrowth and soothe the scalp.
Does black seed oil help improve sexual health? Black seed oil has incredible potential when it comes to male sexual health, boasting the ability to possibly increase testosterone levels. More testosterone can improve sperm count, motility, fertility, and sex drive. There’s also some evidence that black seed oil can help regulate the menstrual cycle in women, which can also greatly improve sexual health and increase fertility rates.
Is black cumin the same as black seed oil? Black cumin and black seed oil are two entirely different products, though they both are capable of providing health benefits. Black seed oil comes from the Nigella sativa plant, which comes from a flowering plant that’s native to Asia. Black cumin comes from the Bunium bulbocastanum plant that’s native to Europe.
How much black seed oil should I take daily? If you’re taking black seed oil in liquid form, you should see benefits with one to two teaspoons per day. When it comes to softgels or capsules, you might need to start with two 500 milligram servings twice daily. Depending on the results you’re seeing, you can increase or decrease your daily intake accordingly. It’s important to start with the lowest dose in case there are any adverse reactions.
Can black seed oil lower blood pressure? Yes, black seed oil can help lower blood pressure by lowering systemic inflammation. One study even showed that blood pressure was lowered by subjects who consumed black seed oil over a period of 2 months. It also showed that people who took black seed oil, received great benefits, indicating a dose-dependent relationship.
Does black seed oil really work? While black seed oil seems to be effective in treating conditions, there are no guarantees when it comes to the widespread claims related to black seed oil.
Can I drink black seed oil? Yes, you can drink black seed oil, but only a few teaspoons at a time. More than this can cause side effects and adverse reactions.
What are the skin healing properties of black seed oil? When used directly on the surface of the skin, black seed oil can reduce the severity of acne, lower inflammation, unclog pores and improve the overall appearance and texture of the skin.
How should you test black seed oil on your skin? When using a new skincare product, it’s important to test the product on a small portion of your skin to determine if you’re allergic and whether or not the product causes a skin reaction. If no reaction occurs, feel free to use black seed oil as you please.
Can you make your own black seed oil? Though it’s probably possible to make your own black seed oil at home, it would take an extensive amount of time and effort to make the product. The best use of black seed oil at home is to combine with other products to enhance their benefits.
Is black seed oil dangerous? Black seed oil is toxic in large amounts, but in general, it is very safe. When used topically on the surface of the skin, black seed oil can cause blisters or a rash, especially in those with an undiagnosed black seed oil allergy.
Does black seed oil damage organs? When using black seed oil consistently and over a longer time, there is a potential risk for causing damage to your liver, kidneys, and other internal organs. That’s why it’s best that you consult with a healthcare professional to discuss the side effects of this substance and how they can impact you specifically.
Does black seed oil interact with medication? Though most medications won’t directly interact with products like black seed oil, there is an extreme risk of danger when medications do react. Consult your doctor before using black seed oil if you’re currently on any type of medication.
Where can you buy black seed oil? Black seed oil is popular worldwide, but there are limitations when it comes to locations where you can buy these products. The easiest and cheapest way to get your hands on these products would be through online retailers like Amazon. If you’re looking to buy these products in stores, you’ll most likely find them in health and nutrition-based stores like The Vitamin Shoppe.
Can you take black seed oil long-term? Since black seed oil is usually used to treat specific conditions, people rarely use black seed oil consistently. It is possible to use black seed oil long-term, but there are very few studies analyzing the long-term effects of using this product. Most professionals would recommend using black seed oil for three months or less.
Is black seed oil used for weight loss? Yes, black seed oil can be beneficial if you’re looking to lose weight because of its hypoglycemic and hypolipidemic characteristics. One study determined that when black seed oil is combined with a low-calorie diet, participants are more likely to lose weight. It also seems to be incredibly useful in treating metabolic syndrome and could ultimately help prevent the development of many cardiovascular disorders (2).
Can black seed oil cure depression? Some studies have demonstrated that those with anxiety and depression may benefit from supplementing with black seed oil daily. After triggering anxiety and depression in the rats and then treating them with black seed oil, the signs, and symptoms of both of these conditions were reduced significantly (3).
What is black seed oil? Black seed oil comes from the Nigella sativa plant that’s native to Asian countries. The oil itself is extracted directly from the seeds and can be used as a spice or a flavoring in food or as a treatment method for many health conditions and ailments. What makes black seed oil unique is the fact that it’s full of antioxidants. Based on anecdotal evidence, it appears that black seed oil can be beneficial in treating nearly any condition known to man. However, that’s heavily disputed by those in the scientific field.
What can black seed oil cure? Black seed oil is assumed to be beneficial when it comes to treating a wide assortment of diseases and ailments. This includes high blood pressure, diabetes, anxiety & depression, breathing disorders, skin inflammation, obesity, hair loss, eczema, and other skin conditions
Does black seed oil contain antioxidants? Yes, black seed oil contains powerful antioxidant capabilities, which is why it can help treat so many conditions.
Why is black seed oil effective when used topically? Black seed oil seems to be effective topically because of its moisturizing capabilities, antioxidant quality, and anti-inflammatory benefits. This helps to treat conditions such as eczema psoriasis fairly efficiently.
Does black seed oil cause contact dermatitis? While rare, black seed oil can cause an allergic skin reaction known as contact dermatitis. It should be noted that most plant based products have this property and it’s nothing to be worried about. You should always start with a small patch of skin to assess any possible adverse reactions before applying a generous amount.
What does black seed oil mainly treat? Black seed oil is a supplement used to treat joint and back pain, inflammation, and skin irritation. This oil is derived from pressing the seeds of the nigella sativa plant, which is native to the Middle East. Black seed oil (sometimes also called black cumin seed oil) has been the subject of extensive research scientific research into its potential as an herbal treatment. The dark amber oil contains potent antioxidants, including the compound thymoquinone.
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Recap
Black seed oil offers an interesting combination of antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and moisturizing properties. It’s been explored as a treatment for everything from skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis to obesity and the problems that come alongside, like high blood pressure, insulin insensitivity, and high cholesterol.
Scientific evidence indicates that it’s a low risk supplement with few adverse effects. The only reported problems are allergic reactions on the skin, but these are rare.
If you want an all-natural supplement that can do dual duty as a healing salve for skin conditions and as a way to fight weight gain and its long-term health effects, black seed oil might be exactly what you need.
For BodyNutrition’s #1 black seed oil recommendation, click here.
