Nigella sativa (or Black Seed) has a prominent place in traditional folk medicine especially in the Middle East and Asia. However, it is not for its leaves, flowers or fruits. It is in fact for the little black seeds that can be found in its fruit. They were referred to in The Canon of Medicine, a text that was published in 1025 A.D. They have also been mentioned in various other Ayurvedic texts. The seeds were ingested for improved wellness and health.
Black seeds have become popular today for their aromatic and flavorful contribution to many culinary delights. They are also popular for the oil that is extracted from them. This is especially after studies revealed many potential health benefits of black seed oil.
Black seed oil and the immune system: Researchers are still studying the effects of black seed oil on the immune system. However, research so far indicate that taking a black seed oil supplement may help to support your immune system. There are two major ways that have so far been identified.
Anti-inflammatory action: Black seed oil is a rich source of thymoquinone. This bioactive compound has been shown to have anti-inflammatory effects. Inflammation is the body's normal response to bacteria, infection or injury. While this response is normal and healthy, chronic inflammation can have damaging effects on the body. Chronic inflammation occurs when the body's normal response goes out of control. It has been linked to conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and arthritis. Studies on black seed oil have shown that it inhibits the excessive production of nitric oxide. This helps to reduce inflammation. It has also been shown to target T cells. These actions have the potential to improve immune response in the body.
Antioxidant effects: Taking black seed oil tablets daily may help to reduce oxidative stress on your body. Black seed oil is a rich source of antioxidants. Thymoquinone in particular is a potent antioxidant that neutralizes free reactive oxygen species (ROS). Oxidative stress results in the body when there is an imbalance between the production and accumulation of ROS in the tissues of the body. ROS are a common byproduct of oxygen metabolism. Exposure to pollutants such as heavy metals as well as to UV rays can also result in the production of ROS. Oxidative stress occurs when the body is unable to detoxify by getting of these reactive by-products.
Black seed oil has been shown to help restore balance by restoring levels of heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). Restoring HO-1 levels allows immune cells including macrophages and monocytes to function better. Black seed oil therefore has the potential to help the cells of the immune system function better in their roles.
Thymoquinone has also been noted to inhibit the production of cytokines such as interleukin-6 and TNF-alpha, which are known to cause inflammation. This aids in phagocytosis. It enables the immune cells to consume invading pathogens and destroy them more effectively.
Where to buy black seed oil: Black seed oil has many potential health benefits including boosting the immune system. It is therefore worth including in your daily nutritional supplement schedule. However, not just any black seed oil product will do. You must ensure that you choose the best quality black seed oil in order to truly experience its benefits.
Orzax is a reputable manufacturer of organic nutritional supplements. Their black seed oil soft gel capsules contain cold pressed black seed oil. This method of extraction ensures that the bioactive compounds in the oil are not damaged. You get 2 percent thymoquinone in each capsule of black seed oil from the brand. Visit their website to learn more and to purchase blacks seed oil supplements.