The black seed is often referred to as kalonji and black cumin. It comes from Nigella sativa, a flowering plant native to Southern Europe, North Africa, and Southwest Asia. This annual blooming plant can reach heights between 8 to 35 inches (20 to 90 cm).
Studies have showcased the use of black seeds in herbal therapy for years. It can treat many illnesses and disorders like diabetes, pain, and digestive issues. The presence of thymoquinone is a primary cause of this plant’s medicinal effects.
Thymoquinone is a crucial bioactive component of essential oil with additional beauty benefits. Black seed oil is a popular natural medicine used to cure several ailments, such as headaches, back discomfort, high blood pressure, infections and inflammation.
How Does Black Seed Help in Weight Loss?
Studies have found that the active ingredients in black seeds can reduce fat by changing the expression of specific genes related to hunger. Therefore, it can be a helpful supplement in the treatment of obesity.
Additionally, thymoquinone (TQ), a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent, is present in black seed oil and can aid in weight loss. Given that TQ fights off infections and decreases inflammation, it has the potential to prevent the development of obesity.
Studies have shown that black seeds can yield weight loss results when combined with dietary and lifestyle changes. However, taking herbal supplements alone will not deliver the same results.
The active phytochemicals in black seeds work to modify the expression of specific genes which control hunger and fat loss, thus promoting weight reduction.
Unfortunately, there is not enough evidence to support the direct method through which black seed aids in weight loss.
The HealthifyMe Note
Some evidence suggests that black seeds, also known as black cumin seeds or Nigella sativa, may have weight loss benefits. Black seeds contain compounds that may help regulate metabolism, reduce inflammation, and improve insulin sensitivity, which can boost weight loss. However, it’s important to note that more research is needed to confirm the weight loss benefits of black seeds.
How to Use Black Seed for Weight Loss?
Black seed oil is available in soft gel and oil forms. You can also find them in many healthy foods and vitamin supplements. According to experts, taking a daily dose of 1-2.5 grams of this oil is safe. However, one must start with a small dose and gradually increase it as part of their diet.
Since some of the active compounds in black seed oil may interact with prescription medications, consult your doctor before using the supplement.
Alternatively, you can consult a coach at HealthifyMe to get the right advice along the road while you make the essential dietary adjustments.
Ways to Consume Black Seeds for Weight Loss
There are different ways you can consume black seed. Some of them are listed below:
Black Seed Powder
- Dry roast seeds lightly and grind them coarsely. Store in airtight container.
- Consume black seed powder daily once with warm water( can add lemon, raw honey to it too) or add it to bread, oatmeal, smoothies, or anything else you eat.
Black Seed Oil
- Try mixing one cup of kefir, yogurt, plain curd or buttermilk with half teaspoon of black seed oil. Have this daily once.
HealthifyPro Tip
To use black seeds for weight loss, you can try adding them to your diet by sprinkling them on top of salads, smoothies, or other dishes. You can also try taking a black seed supplement, although it’s always a good idea to speak with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement.
As with any weight loss strategy, it’s important to remember that black seeds should be part of a healthy diet and lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet, regular exercise, and sufficient hydration.
Other Benefits of Black Seed
There are several potential health advantages associated with the usage of black seed oil, including:
Nutritional Value
One of the valuable advantages of black seed is that it is a source of vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids. Our body utilises these nutrients for bodily tasks, including cell development and repair.
Helpful for Asthma Patients
One can use black seed oil to treat asthma by easing breathing muscles and lowering inflammation.
Regulates Blood Sugar
Black seed oil and black seed supplements may help persons with type 2 diabetes regulate their blood sugar levels. After just 1-3 months of usage, several studies have revealed statistically significant changes in blood sugar and haemoglobin levels.
Preventions of Heart Diseases
Significant risk factors for heart disease and associated disorders include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high triglyceride levels. After 6–12 weeks of usage, black seed oil may be able to lower all three.
Rich in Antioxidants
A substance with high antioxidant capabilities known as thymoquinone is particularly abundant in black seed oil. It stops free radicals from generating and damaging our cells.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The black seed oil lessens inflammation and calms muscles all over the body, most likely owing to thymoquinone.
The HealthifyMe Note
Black seed and its many variations can benefit skin, hair, and overall appearance. For example, applying black seed oil directly to hair can help moisturise and ease skin irritation. It also reduces inflammation and has antibacterial properties. Moreover, one can use it to treat several skin conditions, including psoriasis, eczema, and dry skin.
The Conclusion
Black seeds, valued for their many culinary and therapeutic applications, have been linked to several health benefits. People use it as a traditional remedy used to treat various ailments. While some animal and in-vivo studies show its weight loss effects, more research is still needed.
People may sometimes experience minor side effects such as nausea, digestion issues, or bloating when consuming black seeds or black seed oil. It is always best to consume them in small doses. Finally,, combining black seed consumption with a low-calorie diet may help you lose weight.
The Supporting Sources
1. Yimer EM, Tuem KB, Karim A, Ur-Rehman N, Anwar F. Nigella sativa L. (Black Cumin): A Promising Natural Remedy for Wide Range Illnesses. Evid Based Complement Alternat Med. 2019 May 12;2019:1528635. DOI: 10.1155/2019/1528635. PMID: 31214267; PMCID: PMC6535880.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6535880/
2. Hasani-Ranjbar S, Jouyandeh Z, Abdollahi M. A systematic review of anti-obesity medicinal plants – an update. J Diabetes Metab Disord. 2013 Jun 19;12(1):28. DOI: 10.1186/2251-6581-12-28. PMID: 23777875; PMCID: PMC3914705.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23777875/
3. Namazi N, Larijani B, Ayati MH, Abdollahi M. The effects of Nigella sativa L. on obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Ethnopharmacol. 2018 Jun 12;219:173-181. doi: 10.1016/j.jep.2018.03.001. Epub 2018 Mar 17. PMID: 29559374.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29559374/
4. Ahmad A, Husain A, Mujeeb M, Khan SA, Najmi AK, Siddique NA, Damanhouri ZA, Anwar F. A review on the therapeutic potential of Nigella sativa: A miracle herb. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed. 2013 May;3(5):337-52. doi: 10.1016/S2221-1691(13)60075-1. PMID: 23646296; PMCID: PMC3642442.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3642442/
