Black cumin

What’s behind black cumin

Black cumin oil is extracted from the seeds of the black cumin plant. This is also known as Nigella sativa. The plant is not related to the common caraway we are familiar with. They share no similarities other than their name.
Black cumin belongs to the buttercup family. Its use dates back a long way in history and still plays a major role today in the fields of food preparation and medicine.

Black cumin throughout history

Black cumin and its use have been part of history for many thousands of years. It was already used in ancient Egypt as a spice and a remedy. It was utilised from an early stage for its healing properties as a remedy for all manner of ailments. Owing to its historical significance, the oil extracted from it is often referred to as the ‘oil of the pharaohs’.

Its special properties

The oil extracted from black cumin seeds has a particularly good reputation. It is said to possess many healing properties.
It contains unsaturated fatty acids, which have beneficial effects on our bodies. We need these so that, for example, the heart and brain can function properly.
In terms of flavour, black cumin can be described as slightly peppery. Its spicy, pungent flavour works particularly well in Middle Eastern dishes and is also frequently used as an additive in bread.

Black cumin is said to have the following properties: (these are not medically proven claims)

• anti-inflammatory
• histamine-reducing
• aids digestion
• cholesterol-lowering

The various areas of application

Black cumin oil is known for its versatility. Whether used externally or internally, it is renowned for its health-promoting properties. The most obvious use is in the kitchen. Its spicy, slightly pungent flavour adds that special something to your dishes. However, it should be used sparingly, as the flavour can be very intense. The oil is used in food preparation particularly in Middle Eastern and Asian countries.
Another possible use is as a dietary supplement. To do this, simply place the oil on a spoon and swallow it. If you don’t like the taste, you can also take black cumin oil in capsule form, thereby avoiding the flavour. Simply take these with plenty of liquid. When using the oil as a dietary supplement, always follow the recommended dosage.
The oil is also popular in skin and hair care. In skin care, its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties are particularly valued. It also moisturises the skin.
For hair care, you can apply the oil directly to your hair. It enhances shine and stimulates keratin production.

Where black cumin is found

Black cumin is mainly cultivated in the regions of West Asia and North Africa. Key countries of origin include, for example, India, Turkey, Iran and Pakistan. Some of it also comes from the regions around the Mediterranean.

How black cumin oil is produced

Black cumin oil is extracted from the seeds of the black cumin plant. To do this, the seeds are first cleaned, then dried and finally cold-pressed. The cold-pressing process ensures that the valuable nutrients are largely preserved.

Possible side effects

As a rule, no dangerous side effects occur when taking or using the oil. In some cases, however, overdoses and intolerances may occur. The consequences of this include nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.
It is more common to experience belching, as the stomach lining may become irritated.
During pregnancy, you should avoid taking black cumin oil, as it may induce labour.

Black cumin oil for dogs

The oil is beneficial not only for us humans, but also for our four-legged friends. Dogs benefit from black cumin oil in that it supports coat care. Another key reason to give your dog the oil is protection against ticks. Ticks are repelled by blood containing the oil and will no longer bite.
As it can help not only you but also your dog, it’s a real all-rounder.

Buy black cumin oil from Vitalove

You can buy black cumin oil from us either as the oil itself or in capsule form. It’s a real all-rounder and can be used for cooking, as a dietary supplement and for external application. It has been tried and tested for thousands of years and certainly deserves its excellent reputation.