Black seed oil may have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that could help with conditions like psoriasis, asthma, hair loss, and acne. But more research is needed to confirm these potential benefits.

Black seed oil is an herbal ingredient derived from the tiny black seeds of a flowering plant called Nigella sativa (N. sativa). This plant grows in hot places like Eastern Europe, Northern African, and Southwestern Asia.

These seeds have been used in traditional medicine for thousands of years. Preliminary evidence supports a few of its medicinal properties, primarily due to the seed’s high content of antioxidants and other bioactive compounds.

Other common names for the black seeds from N. sativa include black cumin, black caraway, and nigella.

Keep reading to learn more about the potential health benefits of black seed oil.

Some research shows that external applications of black seed oil could benefit skin conditions like acne due to its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory propertiesTrusted Source.

A 2020 study found that using a topical gel made with black seed extract twice daily for 60 days reduced acne severity by 78%Trusted Source. Researchers also noted a significant improvement in the number of acne lesions in study participants compared to those in a control group.

Research suggests that Nigella sativa extract has anti-inflammatory benefits, and animal studiesTrusted Source suggest that black seed oil could reduce skin inflammation and other symptoms of psoriasis.

A 2017 reviewTrusted Source also found that combining oral and topical forms of black seed extract reduces symptoms of psoriasis and improves skin lesions.

That said, it’s important to remember that more human studies are needed.

Black seed oil contains a compound called thymoquinone, which, when applied directly to the skin, may stimulate tissue growthTrusted Source and facilitate wound healing.

Animal studies have found that thymoquinone may help treat burns, excisions, and other types of wounds due to its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial effects. The oil seems to increase collagen production and have moisturizing effects, both beneficial to wound healing.

Black seed extract may be good for the hair. It’s often added to hair care products, including masks and shampoos.

A 2020 review highlighted a small study in which the daily use of a Nigella sativa extract lotion for 3 months significantly increased hair density and thickness in people with telogen effluvium, a common form of hair loss.

The same review found a study with 90 participants using different seed oils for hair loss. Nigella sativa oil was the most effective at reducing hair loss.

A note on herbs and supplements

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)Trusted Source doesn’t regulate or standardize the quality, purity, and dosages of supplements.

As a result, many nutritional supplements have not been tested for safety.

Consider speaking with a healthcare professional before buying and using any supplement. They can recommend the best dosage for you or suggest alternative remedies.

When buying supplements, look for third-party verification from companies like NSF International or USP to ensure they’re from a reputable source.

A 2020 review found a small study indicating that inhaled boiled black seed extract has a potential bronchodilatory effect on people with asthma, improving all markers of lung function and respiratory rate (i.e., helping them breathe better).

A 2021 meta-analysisTrusted Source of four randomized controlled studies also found that black seed supplements may help manage asthma through the seed’s anti-inflammatory effects.

More clinical data is needed to confirm the potential benefits of black seed oil for lung health.

Some research suggests that black seed oil could be beneficialTrusted Source for treating vitiligo, a condition that causes loss of pigmentation in the skin.

A 2019 studyTrusted Source of 33 people with vitiligo found that twice-daily skin application of a cream made with black seed oil improved pigmentation in the hands, face, and genital region after 6 months.

Researchers suggest that black seed oil’s benefits for vitiligo may be due to its ability to spread melanin within the skin. Melanin is a natural pigment found in hair, skin, and eyes. More research is needed.

StudiesTrusted Source have shown that black seed oil has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. This may benefit multiple aspects of health, as researchTrusted Source suggests that inflammation contributes to the development of chronic conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.

A 2021 study of 45 women with overweight or obesity showed that taking 2,000 mg of black seed oil daily for 8 weeks decreased appetite and reduced body mass index, body weight, waist circumference, and body fat.

That said, few studies have examined the long-term use of black seed oil, so caution is advised when taking the supplement in large quantities and for a long time.

Some research shows that black seed oil could be beneficial for stabilizing blood sugar levels. A 2019 reviewTrusted Source, for example, found that black seed may improve multiple markers, including insulin levels and blood sugar levels during fasting and after a meal.

Research suggests that black seed oil could help reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that can increase the chance of developing heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

A 2021 studyTrusted Source involved 55 participants with high blood pressure. Half the participants took 2.5 mL of black seed oil twice daily for 8 weeks, while the others took sunflower oil.

At the end of the study, most of the participants who took the black seed oil experienced reductions in:

However, it’s important to remember that having a well-rounded, whole-food diet and an active lifestyle are the best prevention methods against metabolic syndrome. Supplements like black seed oil may add to a healthy lifestyle.

Black seed oil is an herbal remedy available in several forms, such as shampoos, skin lotions, and oral supplements.

The dosage may vary widely depending on the intended use. For instance:

  • A 2019 review examining the effects of black seed on blood sugar management found that some studies used daily oil doses of 0.7 g, 3 g, and 5 mL.
  • A 2021 study found that taking 2,000 mg of black seed oil daily helped promote weight loss.
  • Another 2021 studyTrusted Source found that taking 2.5 mL of black seed oil daily for 8 weeks helped reduce blood lipid markers.

Before using any form of black seed oil, speak with a healthcare professional to avoid allergic reactions or other adverse effects.

Is it OK to take black seed oil every day?

Black seed oil is likely safe when consumed in small amounts, such as when used in cooking or as a supplement for less than 3 monthsTrusted Source. However, more research is needed on the safety of taking it in larger amounts and for longer.

Who cannot take black seed oil?

Consider limiting your intake of black seed oil if you have functional dyspepsia, liver disease, or kidney disease. As with all supplements, speak with a healthcare professional before taking black seed oil, especially if you’re pregnant.

Does black seed oil grow hair?

Black seed oil is often an ingredient in shampoos and hair masks, as it has antimicrobial and antioxidant properties that may helpTrusted Source support your overall hair health. Some evidence suggests that it may help with hair loss associated with inflammation or telogen effluvium.

Black seed oil may be a promising natural remedy for conditions such as vitiligo, hair loss, psoriasis, metabolic syndrome, and asthma. It may also help with inflammatory conditions and weight management.

It’s important to speak with a healthcare professional before taking any supplements or natural remedies, especially if you take prescription medications. Black seed oil may interact with other supplements and drugs or not work for your individual needs.