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The oil you keep in your kitchen contributes to the overall nutritional profile of your diet. For decades, many have known the health benefits of olive oil. Lately, some have turned to coconut oil as a healthy alternative. But increasingly, health-conscious people are choosing black seed oil as their go-to oil, kept in a place of pride on the kitchen counter.
What Is Black Seed Oil?
Black seed (also called kalonji and black cumin) is native to Southeast Asia and grows on the Nigella sativa plant. It’s related to the coffee plant. Its spicy flavor has been used in kitchens in the Middle East, North Africa, and Asia Minor for countless generations for both its health benefits and the pungent, piquant taste it adds to food.
Benefits Of Black Seed Oil
Let’s explore the benefits of black seed oil and find out why it’s showing up in kitchens everywhere.
It’s A Rich Source of Antioxidants
Antioxidants in food are substances that work to combat the harmful effects of free radicals. Free radicals are harmful compounds capable of causing a negative impact to your health at the cellular level. So, naturally, you need to get as many antioxidants into your diet as possible, and black seed oil is the perfect way to achieve that.
Pre-eminent in the antioxidant content of black seed oil is thymoquinone. While modern research continues to explore the nutritional power of black seed oil, the value of thymoquinone is becoming clearer with each study. There is even emerging research suggesting that thymoquinone holds out hope for arresting the growth of tumors caused by cancer and may also reduce the incidence of tumors forming.
Black Seed Oil Has Powerful Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Inflammation in the human body is at the root of many health conditions, but the anti-inflammatory power of black seed oil can help with that too. When your body picks up on the presence of a harmful compound or is injured, your soft tissue will warn you by becoming inflamed. When inflammation becomes chronic (not resolving over time), it can lead to serious conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
The anti-inflammatory effect of thymoquinone derives from its ability to inhibit the production of nitric oxide (NO), which is an inflammatory agent. By mediating the influence of NO on inflammatory processes, black seed oil reduces inflammation. This makes it an ideal complementary treatment for illnesses like:
- rheumatoid arthritis
- lupus
- dysentery
- asthma
- allergies
- bronchitis
- COPD
- GI tract conditions
- Osteoarthritis
Related: Avocado Oil Spray [The New Pam Cooking Spray]
It Has A Myriad of Health Applications
In its region of origin, inhabitants have used black seed oil to treat numerous health problems for centuries. Producing balanced inter-organ function and strengthening the immune system, black seed oil improves vitality, battles free radicals, and reduces inflammation. This tremendously helpful oil also impacts:
- digestion
- circulation
- respiratory function
- liver function
- kidney function
Black seed oil is also used to treat:
- eczema
- psoriasis
- high blood pressure
- acne
- high cholesterol
But some of the most compelling research findings with respect to this amazing seed concern diabetes. Especially for type 2 diabetes, black seed oil has been identified as a complementary treatment to oral pharmaceuticals. Improving serum insulin levels and reducing blood glucose significantly, black seed oil may also work to prevent diabetes.
Black Seed’s Muscular Nutrition
As you’ve seen by reading this far, black seed oil is a powerhouse of health benefits. But its nutritional profile is enviable in so many ways. Following are only some of the most compelling:
Sterols
Also known as phytosterols, these compounds regulate cholesterol levels. While cholesterol in food is no longer considered the culprit for heart disease (genetics has now been identified in that role), those with genetic predispositions to cardiovascular conditions can benefit.
Amino Acids
These building blocks of protein are present in black seed oil, specifically glutamate, arginine, and aspartate. They’re what your body uses to build muscle mass that’s so essential to long-term health.
Minerals
There are a number of key minerals found in black seed oil, including iron, phosphorus, zinc, copper, and folic acid. This tasty combo of macrominerals and trace minerals joins forces with folic acid (key to healthy pregnancies) to keep your bones strong and your brain ticking along effectively.
Omega-6
The omega-6 fatty acids in black seed oil benefit your complexion by not only moisturizing your skin but by sealing in that moisture. This effect also creates a barrier between your beautiful face and free radicals when applied topically or consumed.
Related: Salmon Skin Chips [A New Healthy Snack]
The Healthy Kitchen
It’s a great idea to add black seed oil to your kitchen as a boost of health. But the boost of this amazing oil’s nutritional value is further enhanced when you start with a solid foundation. Especially for readers struggling with hypertension, high cholesterol, or inflammation, your diet is key to your health.
There are no truly “good” or “bad” foods, but eating in a balanced, mindful manner is proven to support robust health. So before you add black seed oil, check your kitchen. What’s lurking in there that might be exacerbating a problem with inflammation, high cholesterol, or hypertension? It’s time for a parting of ways!
A healthy diet that’s balanced among the food groups is the start of something transformative. And when you add black seed oil to that solid foundation, you’re on the right track.
Best Practices For Using Black Seed Oil
Because of its high nutrient content, heating black seed oil is not advised. Food rapidly loses its nutrients when heated, and oil is no different. Therefore, it’s best to consume black seed oil raw by treating it like a health supplement or adding it to foods you don’t cook.
Any black seed oil you purchase will be accompanied by dosage directions. These will depend on the thymoquinone content of the product, which should only be sourced from a reputable black seed supplier.
The pungent, spicy flavor of black seed oil can be combined with aromatics like balsamic vinegar or other vinegar to create a dressing for salad. You’ll find this balances the flavor, especially if you add a little extra virgin olive oil. Or try it in vegetable smoothies, using veggies like beet, radish, and celery. You might even whip a few drops into sauces once they’re off the fire and cooling.
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Black seed oil offers tremendous health benefits that we’re only beginning to understand in the West. Now’s the time to add a boost of health to your kitchen. Enjoy!
You might also be interested in: 5 Reasons To Add Osmanthus Tea To Your Routine
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