Here’s the science behind black cumin seed oil’s
immune-supporting properties
Our immune system plays a vital role in our body. This complex network of cells, proteins, organs and organ systems is responsible for supporting optimal health and wellbeing. [1]
When harmful substances enter our bodies, the various components of our immune system -- particularly our immune cells -- work together to keep us healthy.
The major organs of our immune system produce different types of immune cells. These cells comprise two broad categories of immune response, namely, our innate (non-specific) and adaptive (specific) immune responses. [2]
Cells that belong to our innate immune system are the first responders in our body. They are not governed by specificity and work quickly and reliably to stop any threat from moving and causing widespread damage. Examples of innate immune cells are neutrophils, macrophages and natural killer (NK) cells. [3]
Unlike innate immune cells, those that belong to our adaptive immune system – namely, our T cells and B cells – require “training” so that they can eliminate threats without harming healthy cells. This is why they are the last to respond. In turn, the protection they provide is long-lasting as they are sustained by memory.
Some B cells and T cells have the ability to commit foreign invaders to memory. This function is what allows the immune system to mount a stronger and more effective response to reoccurring threats. [4] Some immune cells are also programmed to fight a diverse number of different threats. [5][6]
When your body detects invaders, immune cells called cytotoxic T cells jump into action. These cells are equipped with toxic proteins that can support healthy cells. Cytotoxic T cells share this important job with innate immune cells called NK (natural killer) cells.
One of the main goals of NK cells is to limit the spread of threats. [7] One way they do this is to attack abnormal or stressed cells. [8]
What’s more, NK cells play an important role in driving and suppressing inflammation.[9] Inflammation is a crucial part of the immune response because it is the body’s way of telling the immune system to start repairing damaged tissues. [10]
However, inflammation isn’t meant to last for too long. If it persists unnecessarily, inflammation can damage healthy cells. Studies have linked chronic inflammation to a wide range of serious health issues.
In order to prevent chronic inflammation, it is important to support the healthy functions of regulatory immune cells like NK cells. While these cells serve as immune promoters and release pro-inflammatory molecules upon activation, studies show that they also play a major role in controlling T cell responses and maintaining homeostasis. [11][12]
In fact, according to a study published in the journal Immunology, NK cells produce a regulatory protein called interleukin-10 (IL10). [13] This immunomodulator helps limit your immune response to threats in order to prevent damage to normal tissues. [14] [15]
Most people’s immune system should be able to support their optimal health and wellbeing. However, sometimes your immune system can use some support from superfoods such as black cumin seed oil.
Black cumin seed oil offers incredible immune support
and a wide range of health benefits
Black cumin (Nigella sativa) is a versatile plant with a long history of use as an ancient natural remedy. Its earliest use can be traced back to the time of the ancient Egyptians. Hippocrates, an ancient Greek physician now widely known as the father of modern medicine, also prescribed black cumin as a natural remedy for various issues. [16]
In old religious and medical texts, black cumin, particularly its seeds and the oil extracted from them, is referred to as a “cure-all.” Black cumin seeds are featured prominently in Traditional Chinese Medicine and Ayurvedic Medicine, where it is used to support healthy skin, respiratory system, digestive system and reproductive system. [17][18]
Today, black cumin is known by many other names, such as black caraway, kalonji, Roman coriander and fennel flower. Its little black seeds are still widely used as a spice and as a natural herbal remedy. [19] Black cumin’s rich history and widespread use have also attracted the interest of modern researchers, hence the abundance of literature on its chemical properties and medicinal benefits.
One of the many things black cumin is known for is its ability to support healthy immune function. Black cumin contains an active compound called thymoquinone, which can help maintain optimal immune health. [20]
According to a study published in the journal International Immunopharmacology, thymoquinone can support the healthy functions of T cells and NK cells. [21] This means that supplementing with black cumin seed oil is a great way to support optimal immune health.
A study published in the journal Frontiers in Cell and Developmental Biology also reported that thymoquinone supports the healthy production of immune-regulating proteins. [22] This is one of the main reasons why thymoquinone is so effective at maintaining a healthy immune system.
Another way that black cumin seed oil helps protect healthy cells is by supporting your body’s natural antioxidant defenses. Black cumin seed oil contains a wide range of potent antioxidants, such as alkaloids, flavonoids and saponins. [23] These phytonutrients can neutralize harmful free radicals, which are known to cause oxidative stress and damage healthy cells.
According to a study published in the journal Free Radical Research, thymoquinone can also support your antioxidant defenses by reacting with glutathione, a potent antioxidant produced in your liver, to form glutathionyl-dihydrothymoquinone. [24]
This compound is a more powerful antioxidant than thymoquinone
and has a greater potential for scavenging free radicals.
Aside from your immune system, black cumin seed oil can also support a healthy cardiovascular system. According to chemical analysis, black cumin seed oil is rich in healthy fats like linoleic acid and oleic acid, which are known to support healthy blood cholesterol levels that are already within the normal range. [25][26] A study published in the journal Nutrients also noted that oleic acid can support the healthy functions of your liver and pancreas. [27]
Meanwhile, the presence of another healthy fat in black cumin seed oil makes it a great supplement for people who are physically active. Eicosadienoic acid, a rare omega-6 fatty acid, is used by the body to form arachidonic acid. According to a study published in the Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition, this essential fatty acid can support healthy muscle recovery after strenuous exercise. [28]
Black cumin seed oil can also support healthy hair, skin and digestive function. A study published in the journal Phytomedicine looked at the nutrient content of black cumin seeds and found that they contain an abundance of B-vitamins and vitamin E, which are essential nutrients that support healthy hair, skin and nails. [29][30]
When it comes to your digestive health, studies show that black cumin seed oil can support your body’s natural production of gastric mucin. [31] Mucin is a large protein that serves as part of your intestinal barrier. It helps protect the lining of your small intestine against the damaging actions of digestive enzymes, abrasion by food particles and other threats. [32]
In addition, research suggests that black cumin seed oil is an excellent tool to support sensible weight management plans. According to a study published in the journal Food & Function, black cumin seed oil can support your journey to achieve sensible weight management goals when combined with a well-balanced diet and regular exercise. [33]
To recap, here are the wonderful health benefits offered by black cumin seed oil:
- Supports a healthy immune system
- Supports a healthy cardiovascular system
- Supports a healthy digestive system
- Supports a healthy liver and pancreas
- Supports healthy skin and hair
- Supports healthy muscle recovery
- Supports your body’s natural antioxidant defenses
- Supports sensible weight management plans when combined with healthy diet and exercise
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