The benefits and harms of black cumin — 6 properties and how to take it

Black cumin or black seed is a popular plant, most often used as a spice. The seeds are commonly used in cooking and for the production of beverages.

It is rich in proteins and omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals necessary for the smooth functioning of all organs.

In recent years, the medicinal properties of black cumin have attracted great interest from evidence-based medicine.  Scientists have identified the plant's ability to fight male infertility and diabetes mellitus, reduce body weight and improve skin condition.

Top 6 useful properties

Let's look at 6 facts about the benefits of using black cumin (based on evidence).

1. Helps to lose weight

Scientists from Iran installed that taking black cumin seeds promotes weight loss. The data were measured by determining the body mass index (BMI) and abdominal circumference.

The oil of the plant is no less effective. It not only prevents the gain of muscle mass, but also allows you to reduce it even in the absence of proper physical exertion. Similar information lead Experts from Tehran Medical University.

The medicinal plant can be considered as a natural remedy for the treatment and prevention of obesity and overweight.

Against the background of normalization of lipid metabolism, the risk of developing atherosclerosis and type II diabetes mellitus also decreases. The product does not interfere with hormonal mechanisms and is equally effective in men and women.

Black cumin is an effective natural weight loss remedy.

2. Improves the condition of the skin

Black cumin oil and extracts have been used in folk medicine since ancient times to treat skin diseases, they are part of some cosmetics.

It has been established that the medicinal plant inhibits inflammatory processes in the skin and can be used for the treatment of certain chronic and autoimmune skin diseases (for example, eczema).

High efficiency also marked and with regard to psoriasis.

American specialists discovered antibacterial and antiviral properties of cumin. It can be used to prevent and eliminate acne ("pimples"), as well as to prevent scarring.

The use of blackberries has a positive effect on the condition of the hair, eliminating greasy shine and preventing excessive brittleness.

The plant is useful for skin and hair, as it improves their condition, fights inflammation and pathogenic microbes (bacteria, viruses).

3. Reduces the risk of developing cancer

Specialists of the Ohio State University (USA) proved the ability of cumin to cause apoptosis (death) of malignant cells.

The anticancer property is associated with the presence of a special biologically active substance – thymoquinone, which has a pronounced antioxidant, immunomodulatory and antitumor effect.

Confirmed effectiveness in the treatment and prevention of brain tumors, blood cells and mammary glands . Research is being actively conducted in other areas, in particular, to combat bowel and kidney cancer.

Cumin is recommended to be included in the diet for people with burdened heredity or who already have malignant processes in the body.

Cumin has antitumor effect and can be used to prevent and slow down the development of cancer.

4. Supports kidney and liver function

Cumin seed oil normalizes metabolic processes at the cellular level, supporting the throughput of cell membranes and the functioning of enzymes. Similar information lead employees of the Dokki National Research Center (Egypt).

Scientists believe that the plant Protects liver tissue and kidneys from any damage by toxic substances, as well as from fibrous transformation in autoimmune and dystrophic diseases (chronic glomerulonephritis, amyloidosis, cirrhosis, etc.).

Black cumin improves liver and kidney function, protects these organs from damage.

5. Reduces blood sugar levels

Active ingredients of black cumin, according to research data, possess pronounced antidiabetic effect.

In particular, the plant is able to increase the sensitivity of peripheral tissues to insulin, enhance the production of insulin by beta cells of the pancreas and even slow down the absorption of carbohydrates from the intestinal lumen.

The ability of the product to initiate the regeneration of pancreatic beta cells has been revealed, which is very important for the treatment of type I diabetes mellitus.

The plant can be used for the prevention and therapy of type I and II diabetes mellitus.

6. Good for men's health

Studies carried out under the supervision of Iranian experts, demonstrate the ability of black cumin to increase the number and motility of spermatozoa, the volume of secreted seminal fluid, as well as to improve the internal structure of male germ cells.

To achieve the effect, it is necessary to take 5 ml of seed oil for 60 days.

Cumin, due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, can be used to improve potency, as it increases the sensitivity of the glans and arterial blood flow.

The plant increases the volume of sperm and improves its properties, has a positive effect on the quality of sexual life in men.

Possible harm

Despite all the beneficial properties, in isolated situations, black cumin can be harmful to health.

The main side effects are:

  1. Enhancement of the action of drugs metabolized in the liver. Some medications (metoprolol, warfarin) undergo transformation in hepatocytes through the enzyme cytochrome P.
  2. Allergic reactions. Cases of rashes on the skin and mucous membranes, lacrimation, swelling of the mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract have been reported. If there is a history of allergies, the product is contraindicated.

Black cumin can be taken during pregnancy, as well as given to children. The conducted studies have not revealed significant undesirable effects of the plant on these categories of citizens.

Cumin is a safe product, but it has contraindications and can cause side effects. It should be carefully considered for its inclusion in the diet.

Application

Black cumin is used in cooking as a substitute for black pepper. It does not irritate the mucous membranes of the mouth and stomach and is considered safe for inflammatory processes. It gives a special taste and aroma to any fish or meat dish.

In Russian cuisine, the plant perfectly harmonizes with sauerkraut, pickles, watermelons. It is added to flour or mixed with grain before grinding, bread and other pastries are prepared.

Let's look at some promising folk recipes based on spices:

  1. To strengthen the immune system. Mix 1 tsp each of black cumin seeds and honey, add 2-3 tablespoons of water. Take 1 time a day in the morning (30 minutes before breakfast). It is recommended to wash down the mixture with a small amount of tea without sugar.
  2. For colds. Chop the seed of the plant (1 tsp), add 1 liter of boiling water. Insist for 10-15 minutes. Inhalations should be carried out with this composition. The multiplicity is 1 time per day. The duration is about 15 minutes.
  3. From coughing. To prepare the broth, you need: 1 tsp cumin, 400 ml milk, ½ tsp baking soda. Mix the ingredients, boil and simmer for about 5 minutes. Use it in a warm form 4 times a day for 100 ml.
  4. For male infertility. Chop 1 tbsp. l. blackberries, pour 200 ml of water, boil for about 15 minutes. Cool and strain. Take 50 ml 3-4 times a day, on an empty stomach.
Black cumin has become firmly established in cooking and traditional medicine. To get only benefits from the plant, it is necessary to carefully follow the technology of recipes and use them for their intended purpose.

Conclusion

  1. Black cumin is a valuable medicinal plant, the fruits of which are reflected in folk and evidence–based medicine, culinary business.
  2. It improves the condition of the skin, reduces the risk of cancer, improves the course of type I and II diabetes mellitus, fights male infertility and helps to normalize body weight.
  3. The product has no age restrictions and is allowed to be consumed even during pregnancy.
  4. In order to get exclusive benefits from the plant, it is recommended to normalize consumption, and when using folk recipes, follow the cooking technology.