What is Black Seed Oil?
Black Seed Oil otherwise known as Black Cumin Seed Oil is derived from Nigella Sativa (Love in a Mist)
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It is one of the most revered medicinal seeds in history and has even been dated back to the era of Tutankhamun. Black Cumin is native to Southern Europe, North Africa and Southern Asia, it thrives in temperate climates and is now even found in English Cottage Gardens. The seeds mature in inflated seed pods and are usually ready to be harvested after about 130 days. They are harvested by hand and when dry the seeds are isolated and cold pressed to extract the healing oil. Cold pressing is the ideal method of extraction as it results in minimal degradation of the medicinal components contained in the oil.
What makes it so amazing?
The main active ingredient in Black Seed Oil is a molecule called Thymoquinone (2-methyl-5-isopropyl-1,4-benzoquinone), it is now well known as powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory and also has anti-histamine activity. These activities make it a powerful ingredient in my natural skincare products. Studies have also shown that thymoquinone reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines, such as interleukins 6 and 12 (IL-6 and IL-12) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF-α). These compounds play a role in the onset of redness and inflammation and the appearance of acne pimples. There is also some evidence starting to show that thymoquinone also has some anti-cancerous activity. Interestingly Black Cumin Seed oil also contains the unique compounds Nigelline and Nigellone, these have been shown to further contribute to the anti-histamine activity of the oil.
Aswell as thymoquinone Black Cumin Seed oil is a rich source of vitamins A, B and C and minerals such as magnesium, calcium, potassium and zinc. These molecules and a range of essential fatty acids give skin cells all the components necessary to repair themselves and the skin barrier. This also helps to keep skin hydrated by reducing trans-epidermal water loss i.e. the skin cells can hold onto their water because they have an intact cell membrane.
Nigella seed pods are best harvested by hand and respond well to organic farming practices. This makes Black Cumin seed oil extremely sustainable, improving soil health and requiring minimal fossil fuel based harvesting practices.
At Dr Watkins Essentials I use black seed oil in most of my products to enhance skin health and preserve the skin barrier. The best selling Black Seed Balm
https://drwatkinsessentials.com/products/black-seed-balm-60ml?variant=47012027662585 contains a higher concentration of Black Cumin Seed oil along with Rosehip oil so it makes a great spot treatment for psoriasis and eczema. I would also recommend it as an everyday face Moisturiser used in conjunction with the Face Cream
https://drwatkinsessentials.com/products/face-cream?variant=47012026482937.
It is highly effective for eczema and psoriasis and super dry skin aswell as rashes and chaffing. The anti-histamine activity soothes and reduces itching meaning that you won’t further damage your skin by scratching.
We have also just launched the Eczema Bundle, a one box solution to help you eczema and psoriasis
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