Black seed oil is sometimes called black cumin oil. It is derived from nigella sativa seeds, which are normally cold-pressed to produce the oil. Black seed oil can be applied externally or it can be consumed. Both methods are said to offer significant health benefits.

The use of black seed oil is believed to date back centuries. Nigella sativa is a flowering plant. Its seeds are often called black cumin seeds. Nigella sativa seeds, which grow in pods, are edible.

About 30 percent of the composition of the seeds is oil. These seeds are commonly pressed so that that oil can be obtained. Black seed oil is literally black, but it is not generally too heavy.

Black cumin seeds were said to have been found in the tomb of King Tutankhamen. This can be very believable since today the source of many of the best seeds is Egypt. It is also commonly quoted that the Prophet Muhammad attested to the healing power of black cumin seeds.

Black seed oil has a complex chemical structure. It contains more than 100 components of which some have not yet been identified. Some of the essential fatty acids that have been found in black seed oil include stearic acid, linolenic acid, and plamitoleic acid. Nutrients contained in the oil include zinc, calcium, and niacin.

It is believed that all of these components work together to make this oil a highly effective cure for many ailments. These include headaches, toothaches, and autoimmune diseases. Many Muslims hold deep beliefs about the effectiveness of this oil.

Essential fatty acids are building blocks for human cells. This may explain why black seed oil is commonly regarded as excellent for such a wide range of health and beauty concerns. This oil is often applied directly to the skin or mixed with other topical products such as body creams or shea butter. This form of application is used to treat wounds, psoriasis, and joint pains.

Black seed oil is also available in capsule form. Regular internal consumption has reportedly produced many positive effects. These include strengthening the hair and the nails, relieving skin conditions such as eczema and wrinkles, and eliminating intestinal worms.

There are several places where people can purchase this essential oil. It is commonly found in health food stores and at flea markets with natural remedy vendors. It may also be available in traditional markets in some places. Another source where the oil is widely available is on the Internet.