Black Seed Oil...Is it the cure for everything?
What is it used for?
It’s been a little over 10 weeks since I started taking black seed oil, or as some of you may know it as ‘kalonji’ oil, every morning, as part of my health regime. Black seed oil has a long history of use, which dates back over 2000 years. This ancient and somewhat magical oil can be used to treat different health conditions and has proven to aid those that are suffering. Some of the benefits are;
· Supports a healthy immune system
· Promotes healthy weight loss
· Improves digestion functions; gas and constipation
· Helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels
· Supports a healthy cardiovascular system
· Stimulates the body’s energy and known to improve sleep quality
· Improves eczema and psoriasis
These are just some of the conditions which can be improved from taking black seed oil. It is also known to clarify your skin and promote healthy hair and nail growth. The oil itself is extracted from the seeds of ‘Nigella Sativa’, a plant native to southwest Asia and known to be used for centuries in herbal medicine and help autoimmune diseases. The brand I looked into is called ‘The Blessed Seed’ which have researched and manufactured the oil since 2002. It is sold in four different strengths and I went for the ‘strong’ strength which typically contains 4.3-4.9% of volatile oil and is potentially 4-5 times more powerful than most oils on the market. According to the bottle it says, ‘start taking a few drops a day and gradually increase to two or three teaspoons daily.’ So naturally, me being me, I went in straight with a teaspoon a day. It tastes somewhat like burnt, bitter charcoal and a really strong, woody oud. But for many, who use the seeds in Middle Eastern or Mediterranean inspired cooking, describe it as bitter, cumin like taste. I haven’t increased my dose just yet because after that initial spoonful, there’s the after taste that lingers under the tongue.And it lasts anything from a couple to 15 minutes. I know what you’re thinking...but its not absolutely yuck! I’ve had worse tasting things in order to supplement my health. Trust me! I found taking a flat teaspoon of farm grown Manuka honey straight after, really lessens the blow!
Has it helped me?
As it is a natural based, herbal approach to curing things inside your body, I don’t think things will change overnight. But I must say, my overall immune and energy levels definitely seem somewhat ‘boosted’ and whether its mind over matter, that in itself provides healing of the human mind. In addition to that, the general quality of sleep throughout the night has definitely improved and I wake up in the morning, feeling more positive and energised right from the outset. This is difficult when you have young kids and always feel like you are carrying mountains on your shoulders as the day goes on. Due to its miraculous powers,studies have revealed that most of the therapeutic properties of this plant are due to the presence of thymoquinone,a major bio-active component of the essential oil. Although, I must add, it is also important to know that there is scientific evidence to support some, but not all uses for black seed oil against different health disorders.
Where do I purchase it from?
When choosing an oil,I like to buy a product that is cold-pressed and organic to make sure that the oil is in its most natural state. Make sure you read labels carefully to ensure that other ingredients are not added on top of the product you actually choose.It is widely available for purchase online and is sold in many natural food stores, which specialise in dietary supplements. Some of the other highly rated brands on the market today, include Heritage Black Seed Oil, Maju’s and Zhou Nutrition Organic. For 'The Blessed Seed' range you can purchase directly from the retail website itself and it comes with free postage as well. https://theblessedseed.com/ref/169/
Be healthy. Be beautiful. Be blessed!
