2. Pre and Post-Natal Medicine
The active ingredient found in black seeds (thymoquinone) is a phytochemical compound that enhances survival and activity of T-cells in vitro (5). Not only does it help with fertility, it also helps new mothers overcome lactation difficulties.
3. Anti-Tumor Agent and Brain Protection Agent During Radiation
Thymoquinone oils can be used as an antibacterial, anti-tumor agent (6). Thymoquinone shows promise in inducing unhealthy cell death and preventing cancerous tumors from spreading. This oil can reduce the need for chemotherapy in patients with early-stage cancer.
Thus far, it has been used to very effectively fight leukemia, colon cancer, brain cancer, breast cancer, and even oral cancer.
Cell studies show that the seed works similarly to the chemoagent 5-fluoruracil in suppressing of colon cancer growth, although it’s much safer. They also found that black seed oil did not have side effects when used to treat colon cancer (7).
In addition, the active ingredient in black seeds has been shown to even help protect the brain from damage during cancer radiation treatments (8).
4. Lowers High Cholesterol and Blood Pressure
Black seed oil helps reduce LDL cholesterol, control blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart attacks and stroke. In fact, black seeds have been shown to be highly effective at lowering overall cholesterol, especially LDL, and raising good HDL cholesterol levels (9).
As far as blood pressure goes, taking 100-200 mg of black seed extract twice daily for two months is beneficial for people who suffer from mild hypertension (10).
5. Treats Diabetes
Those with Type II Diabetes or pre-diabetic symptoms can use black seed oil to improve insulin resistance, increase glucose sensitivity in liver cells, deter the absorption of too much glucose in the intestinal tract, and help with glucose intolerance and boosts pancreatic health.
Research shows that taking two grams of black seeds daily also reduces fasting glucose, increases beta-cell function, and reduces glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c) (11).