Black Seed Oil Side Effects: Safety Comes First!

As a company committed to providing top-quality black seed oil products, we believe in transparency and honesty regarding your health and wellbeing.
 
And while we wholeheartedly believe in the benefits of black seed oil, it is essential to shed light on its side effects too. Like any natural supplement, black seed oil can cause some side effects, although generally rare and mild.
 
So, let's make sure you have the complete picture and can confidently navigate your wellness journey!
 
Related article: The Ultimate Guide to Using Black Seed Oil For Health & Beauty!
 

 

What is Black Seed Oil Used For?

Black seed oil, made from the seeds of the Nigella sativa plant and also known as black cumin oil, has been used for a wide range of medical and culinary purposes throughout history. Recently, it has gained incredible popularity due to new discoveries about its health benefits.
 
Related article: Discover 8 Amazing Health Benefits of Black Seed Oil!
 
While scientific research is still ongoing, here are the most common and diligently backed-up uses of black seed oil:

• General health: Black seed oil is an efficient, all-natural dietary supplement to support overall health and well-being. It contains numerous vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and antioxidants. 

• Inflammation: Nigella sativa seeds contain potent anti-inflammatory compounds, especially thymoquinone. It is a natural remedy for rheumatoid arthritis and other chronic inflammatory conditions. 

• Immune system: Research has found that consuming black seed oil enhances the immune system and protects against infections, including Covid-19[1].

• Respiratory health: The oil has been used in traditional Ayurveda and Islamic medicines as a natural remedy for respiratory conditions, such as asthma, bronchitis, and allergies. It helps reduces inflammation and supports lung function[2]. 

• Digestion: Black cumin oil is a potent digestive support supplement that aids digestion, relieves discomfort, reduces bloating, gas, and indigestion, and improves gut health. 

• Skin and hair care: Nigella sativa oil is also commonly used for its skin and hair benefits. It moisturizes, soothes irritation, and promotes a healthy skin complexion. It can also be used to treat skin conditions like acne, psoriasis, and eczema. In addition, it nourishes the scalp and supports hair growth. 

• Weight management: Black seed oil is one of the most efficient weight loss support supplements. It plays a major role in weight management by reducing body mass index, waist circumference, and appetite while boosting metabolism.

Related article: How to Use Black Seed Oil For Weight Loss Efficiently?

Is Black Seed Oil Safe?

Black seed oil is generally considered safe when used in moderation. It is made from a natural plant and is well-tolerated by most individuals. It has a low risk of toxicity.
 
Besides, black cumin oil has been used for centuries, and no significant adverse effects have been reported.  
 
However, like any product, black seed oil can cause some side effects, such as allergic reactions or gastrointestinal disorders (detailed below).
 
Additionally, remember that black seed oil is not a substitute for medical treatment. Always ask for a doctor's advice before using it for specific medical purposes. It's a powerful ingredient that may be contraindicated for particular conditions and interact with some of your medications.
 
Related article: The Truth About Sea Moss’s Side Effects!

Possible Side Effects: Oral Consumption

Most people choose to consume black seed oil orally, whether pure or in soft-gel capsules. Although rarely, black seed oil may cause some mild side effects when ingested, including:

Gastrointestinal discomforts

Some people may experience mild gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, upset stomach, constipation, or diarrhea, especially when taking black seed oil for the first time.
 
However, these side effects are usually temporary and resolve on their own once the body gets used to it.

Allergic reactions

Allergic reactions to black seed oil are very rare but can occur in some individuals.
 
If you have known allergies to plants belonging to the same family as Nigella sativa (Ranunculaceae family), consult a healthcare professional before using black seed oil.

Low blood pressure

Black seed oil has blood pressure-lowering effects. That's why it's used as a natural remedy for hypertension. So, while it can be beneficial for some, it may not be recommended for everyone, especially those with low blood pressure.
 
If you have low blood pressure or are taking medications to lower your blood pressure, consult with a healthcare provider before consuming black seed oil daily.
 
Related article: Why is Sea Moss So Good For Heart Health & Blood Pressure?

Possible Side Effects: Topical Application

Black seed oil is excellent for the skin and hair. Most people apply it directly onto the skin as a facial oil or use it as a deeply nourishing hair mask. It’s actually on the ingredients list of many skincare products.
 
When applied topically, black seed oil is safe for most individuals. Still, you should be aware of the following possible side effects:

Skin irritation and allergic reactions

Like any natural skincare, black seed oil may cause skin irritation or allergic reactions. Each skin is unique, and individual responses to topical applications may vary.
 
Always perform a patch test on a small skin area before applying black seed oil all over your face or body. Then, wait at least 24 hours and check for any adverse reactions. If you notice any redness, itching, rashes, or irritation, stop using black seed oil and ask for a doctor’s advice.

Sensitivity to sunlight

In rare cases, black seed oil may increase skin sensitivity to sunlight. Therefore, if you regularly use black seed oil on your skin, it is advisable to protect your skin from excessive sun exposure and use sunscreen.

Interaction with other topical products

In natural skincare products and homemade skincare recipes, black seed oil is often combined with other carrier oils, essential oils, plant extracts, etc.
 
Consider any potential interactions between black seed oil and other skin ingredients. If you are using multiple products, consult a dermatologist or an aromatherapist to ensure compatibility and avoid adverse skin reactions.
 
Related article: What Are Sea Moss Benefits for Your Skin?

Who Should Not Take Black Seed Oil?

As seen above, black seed oil is an all-natural, gentle ingredient that causes only rare and mild side effects. However, certain people should approach its use cautiously or avoid it. We recommend the following groups seek medical advice before using black seed oil in significant amounts: 

People who take medications  

Black seed oil may interact with certain medications, particularly those metabolized by liver enzymes. Known interactions between black seed oil and medications include, but are not limited to:

• Blood pressure medications
• Blood thinning, anticoagulant, antiplatelet drugs
• Anti-diabetes drugs
• Immunosuppressants
• Sedative medications
• Diuretic drugs
• Cyclosporine (Neoral, Sandiummune)
• Serotonergic drugs 

Ask professional advice if you are undergoing long-term treatments or taking medications to ensure there are no potentially dangerous interactions.

Pregnant and breastfeeding women

As a measure of precaution, pregnant and breastfeeding women should also ask for their doctor’s advice before including black seed oil in their daily routine or taking black seed oil supplements.
 
While no specific risks have been identified, the safety of black seed oil during pregnancy and breastfeeding hasn’t been sufficiently studied yet.
 
Related article: Can You Take Sea Moss While Pregnant or Breastfeeding?

People with scheduled surgery

Because of its potential blood-thinning and anticoagulant effects, it's best to stop using black seed oil at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery. If you’re taking black seed oil supplements, inform your doctor about it before surgery.

Chronic health conditions

Black seed oil can be used to efficiently prevent, manage, and treat numerous chronic health conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, obesity, respiratory diseases, and even cancer[3].
 
But always keep in mind that, while 100% natural, it is a powerful ingredient that significantly impacts your body. Therefore, if you have any chronic health condition, we recommend asking for a doctor’s advice before adding black seed oil supplements to your daily routine.

Benefits vs. Risks: Is Black Seed Oil Worth it?

So, what’s the bottom line? Like any health supplement, the key to using black seed oil safely and efficiently is to weigh the benefits against the potential risks.
 
The numerous and powerful properties of Nigella sativa make its oil an appealing choice for those seeking natural and holistic solutions.
 
Besides, for most people, black seed oil is a safe, risk-free, gentle ingredient that easily incorporates into your lifestyle, causing very few and mild side effects.
 
That said, remember it's a potent ingredient (that’s why it works!). So, if you have any chronic health conditions, take medications, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have doubts about the safety of black seed oil for you, do not hesitate to ask for your doctor’s advice!
 
Organics Nature offers the highest-quality, cold-pressed, pure, and carefully sourced black seed oil supplements. Tap into its natural properties and experience its health benefits now!

Trusted Sources:
[1] Kulyar MF, Li R, Mehmood K, Waqas M, Li K, Li J. Potential influence of Nagella sativa (Black cumin) in reinforcing immune system: A hope to decelerate the COVID-19 pandemic. Phytomedicine. 2021 May;85:153277. doi: 10.1016/j.phymed.2020.153277. Epub 2020 Jul 10. PMID: 32773257; PMCID: PMC7347483. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7347483/
[2] Al-Azzawi MA, AboZaid MMN, Ibrahem RAL, Sakr MA. Therapeutic effects of black seed oil supplementation on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients: A randomized controlled double-blind clinical trial. Heliyon. 2020 Aug 13;6(8):e04711. doi: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2020.e04711. PMID: 32904114; PMCID: PMC7452452. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7452452
[3] Khan MA, Chen HC, Tania M, Zhang DZ. Anticancer activities of Nigella sativa (black cumin). Afr J Tradit Complement Altern Med. 2011;8(5 Suppl):226-32. doi: 10.4314/ajtcam.v8i5S.10. Epub 2011 Jul 3. PMID: 22754079; PMCID: PMC3252704.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3252704/