Black Seed Oil is a natural medicine that has been used for centuries in traditional medicine for its numerous health benefits. This oil has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immune-boosting qualities since it is derived from the seeds of the Nigella sativa plant. In addition to these benefits, recent studies have shown that black seed oil can also be effective in controlling cholesterol levels.1
Black seed oil may be beneficial in controlling cholesterol levels due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. High cholesterol is exacerbated by oxidative stress and inflammation, all of which are mitigated by the active components in black seed oil, such as thymoquinone and nigellone.
Studies have shown that consuming black seed oil for several months can lead to a decrease in total cholesterol levels, as well as a reduction in low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, also known as "bad" cholesterol. It can also increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, also known as "good" cholesterol.2
In addition, black seed oil has been shown to improve the lipid profile, reducing the levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. This may be due to the ability of black seed oil to regulate the metabolism of lipids in the body and enhance the excretion of cholesterol from the liver.3
While black seed oil has been shown to improve heart health, further study is required to determine the best way to take it to reduce cholesterol. Always visit your doctor before start taking a new supplement program, as is the case with any other kind of medication.4
Black Seed Oil and Benefits
Cardiovascular disorders, such as heart attacks and strokes, have high cholesterol as a primary risk factor. Untreated high cholesterol may raise the risk of heart disease by leading to a buildup of plaque in the arteries, which narrows and hardens the arteries. To our relief, black seed oil has been validated as a harmless and efficient means of controlling cholesterol levels.5, 6
Researchers in another research revealed that black seed oil helped lower levels of oxidative stress and inflammation. These two characteristics are major contributors to the onset of cardiovascular disease. The study also showed that black seed oil improved the lipid profile, reducing the levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.7
Risks with Black seed oil in controlling cholesterol
While black seed oil is generally considered safe, there are some potential side effects that should be considered when taking it for cholesterol control. These can include:
Digestive issues
Some people may experience digestive symptoms such as nausea, bloating, and diarrhea when taking black seed oil. This may be due to its strong taste or the high doses needed for cholesterol control.
Allergic reactions
Black seed oil can cause allergic reactions in some individuals, including skin rashes, itching, and difficulty breathing. Stop taking black seed oil and visit a doctor right away if you suffer any of these side effects.
Interactions with drugs Blood thinners, blood pressure drugs, and diabetes drugs are among those that might be affected by black seed oil. It is important to discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
Pregnancy and breast-feeding
There is limited information on the safety of black seed oil during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It is best to avoid taking black seed oil or consult with a healthcare provider before using it.
In conclusion, while black seed oil may be beneficial in controlling cholesterol levels, it is important to be aware of its potential side effects and to consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.
Conclusion
In conclusion, black seed oil is a healthy and efficient method of lowering cholesterol and protecting against heart disease. Black seed oil may be a useful natural remedy for those looking to improve their cholesterol levels, but more research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms by which it does so. A doctor should be consulted before beginning a new supplement regimen, as is the case with any new health regimen.
References:
- Sahebkar, A., Beccuti, G., Simental-Mendía, L.E., Nobili, V. and Bo, S. (2016). Nigella sativa (black seed) effects on plasma lipid concentrations in humans: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized placebo-controlled trials. Pharmacological Research, 106, pp.37–50. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.phrs.2016.02.008.
- Alyami, H.H. and Al-Hariri, M.T. (2023). Synergistic Effects of Nigella sativa and Exercise on Diabetic Profiles: A Systematic Review. Diabetes Therapy: Research, Treatment and Education of Diabetes and Related Disorders, [online] pp.1–12. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s13300-022-01362-5.
- Abdollahi, N., Nadjarzadeh, A., Salehi-Abargouei, A., Fallahzadeh, H., Razmpoosh, E., Lorzaedeh, E. and Safi, S. (2022). The effect of Nigella sativa on TAC and MDA in obese and overweight women: secondary analysis of a crossover, double blind, randomized clinical trial. Journal of Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders, 21(1), pp.171–179. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s40200-021-00954-5.
- Farhangi, M.A., Dehghan, P. and Tajmiri, S. (2018). Powdered black cumin seeds strongly improves serum lipids, atherogenic index of plasma and modulates anthropometric features in patients with Hashimoto’s thyroiditis. Lipids in Health and Disease, [online] 17(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s12944-018-0704-x.
- Bamosa, A., Lebda, F., Al Elq, A., Al-Sultan, A. and Kaatabi, H. (2012). Favorable impact of Nigella sativa seeds on lipid profile in type 2 diabetic patients. Journal of Family and Community Medicine, 19(3), p.155. doi:https://doi.org/10.4103/2230-8229.102311.
- Asgary, S., Sahebkar, A. and Goli-Malekabadi, N. (2015). Ameliorative effects of Nigella sativa on dyslipidemia. Journal of Endocrinological Investigation, [online] 38(10), pp.1039–1046. doi:https://doi.org/10.1007/s40618-015-0337-0.
- Salama, R. (1973). STEROLS IN THE SEED OIL OFNIGELLA SATIVA. Planta Medica, 24(08), pp.375–377. doi:https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0028-1099512.
