DESCRIPTION
The black cumin ( Nigella sativa ), also known as "the blessed seed", has been appreciated for millennia for its many phytotherapeutic properties, being rich in substances such as fatty acids, beta sitosterol, calcium, folic acid, iron, oleic acid, linoleic acid, palmitol, phosphorus , stearic acid, vitamins B1, B2, B3 and zinc. Black cumin oil , obtained by cold pressing the seeds, has been used since ancient times to treat several ailments due to its antimicrobial, antifungal and anti-inflammatory abilities. Among the Egyptians, oil was considered the elixir of youth: amphorae full of black cumin oil are present in almost all tombs of the great pharaohs . In some studies, the beneficial effect of black cumin oil on human health regarding the immune system has been evaluated. The results achieved demonstrate how the oil contains essential fatty acids (e.g. gammalinoneic acid) whose synthesis produces important immunoregulatory substances. Linoleic acid stabilizes the cell membrane, thus preventing the immunological reactions that cause many chronic diseases. Furthermore, thanks to the substances contained in cumin oil, the exaggerated immune response typical of many allergic reactions is normalized and brought back within limits. The oil has been successfully tested in the prevention of colds and flu. Some of these properties can be traced back to the presence of nigellone, a bronchodilator, antispasmodic which also has an effect in respiratory conditions such as asthma, whooping cough etc. Another key component is thymoquinone which is antioxidant in nature (recent studies have shown that this substance is able to reduce the synthesis of some cytokines such as TNF-alpha and IL-1, responsible for the inflammatory cascade, therefore behaving as an anti-inflammatory and painkiller) . Black cumin seed oil contains many essential vitamins and minerals in well-balanced quantity so as to act as a natural dietary supplement. Under normal conditions of use, no side effects are known for nigella oil and it can therefore be safely taken at all ages, regardless of the clinical condition.
For external use (skin and hair) cumin oil can be used in the presence of dermatitis, eczema, acne, psoriasis and in case of irritation, thanks to its soothing and anti-inflammatory capacity. The oil can also be applied to particularly sensitive skin types. It can also be useful for combating fungal diseases at a dermatological level (antibacterial and antifungal activity) and dandruff. For brittle and weakened hair, black cumin oil repairs the damage caused by dehydration generated by heat by restructuring the hair. Applied on the hands it demonstrates high emollient properties, creates a non-greasy film and provides nutritional factors that the skin needs, making it particularly useful for eczema and reducing its symptoms. It is also a natural "antihistamine", ideal for the treatment of skin conditions linked to allergic reactions and useful for regenerating damaged skin. Due to its antiviral action, it may be able to counteract and alleviate the symptoms caused by the virus of cold sores, genital herpes, herpes zoster and ophthalmic herpes and can be used in sunburns thanks to its soothing and anti-inflammatory properties.
CONDITIONS OF USE
PRECAUTIONS FOR USE
As a precaution, its use during pregnancy is not recommended.