What is black seed oil?
Black seed oil is made from tiny black-colored seeds that are commonly known as “black cumin” but are scientifically called nigella sativa. It has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and is used in the natural hair community to help with hair growth. It is dissimilar from popular natural hair oils you may have used like coconut and olive oil because it is an essential oil. Essential oils are a popular tool in many naturalistas’ hair and skin routines, but it’s important to always dilute an essential oil with carrier oil before applying it to your hair or skin. Here’s a list of common carrier oils to try.
Other common names for black seed oil
- nigella sativa oil
- black cumin
- Roman coriander
- fennel flower
- nutmeg flower
- black caraway
Black Seed Oil benefits
When it is 100% pure, unrefined, and cold-pressed, black seed oil is sourced from Indian or Turkish seeds made up of powerful Nigellone, and Thymoquinone–two antihistamines. Since it has anti-inflammatory properties, black seed oil is great when diluted with a carrier oil to soothe scalp conditions that cause inflammation, flakiness, and sensitivity. It also kills viruses and fungal infections, so those with lice can benefit. Like lavender, citrus, and rosemary essential oils, black seed oil is an adjuvant, meaning it works well with other ingredients to provide therapeutic effects. These antifungal and anti-inflammatory properties suggest that it could be effective in regrowing certain thinning areas on your scalp. So far studies have had relatively small sample sizes and there have been few studies that actually examine the direct link between black seed oil and hair growth, but Healthline reports that “A 2014 study indicated that a mixture of coconut oil and black seed oil was effective enough in promoting hair growth to justify further study. Also, a 2017 study indicated that an herbal hair oil containing Nigella sativa resulted in hair fallout reduction of up to 76 percent.”
If you are suffering from hair loss it is always best to consult a doctor first to explore underlying health conditions and the best course of treatment. Ask your doctor about black seed oil to determine if this is a viable option for you, and to confirm that it won’t interact with any medicines or supplements you’re currently taking.
DIY Black Seed Scalp Massage
Giving yourself regular scalp massages is an excellent way to stimulate blood flow to the scalp, in turn promoting healthy hair growth. Many curlies use this ritual as a stress relieving treat in their curly hair routine.
To use black seed in your next scalp massage, try massaging 1 part black seed oil with 2 parts olive oil (or a carrier oil of your choice”> vigorously onto your bald patches to encourage hair growth. Rinse out afterwards with a cleansing conditioner.
DIY Black Seed Hair Loss Remedy
Try this recipe from The Blessed Seed to regrow your thinning edges using black seed oil.
- Add 2 handfuls of black cumin seeds to 5 cups of water.
- Boil for 10 minutes. Let it cool down.
- Strain the seeds.
- Pour the black cumin water into a glass jar.
- Add 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil.
- Massage this mixture to your scalp at least twice a week.
- Let it stay on your scalp for 30 minutes to 1 hour and then wash your hair.
- Keep the mixture in the refrigerator for 2 weeks maximum (without preservatives”>.
Black Seed Oil Hair Products
Here is what reviewers have to say about these popular black seed oil products.
Sweet Sunnah Organic Black Seed Rosemary Carrot Hair Oil, $11.99
“This oil is truly amazing, I have hair loss and a bald area on the top of my head. I have been using this oil for 2 weeks, there is new growth in that area already. And my hair is getting thicker also. I am amazed and so happy with these results, when I researched this oil at the manufacturer’s website its stated that it would accelerate hair growth. But products don’t always live up to their hype. This is a genuine hair growth oil. The smell is a little strong, but I don’t mind it and it really moisturizes.” – M. Barth on Amazon
“I use this product when I do hot oil treatments and i will oil my scalp with it at night. I use it every other night to moisturize my edges before applying my scarf. I have not seen any additional or extraordinary hair growth. I think that it is a good moisturizer and very healthy addition to my regimen. Unsure if i will continue to repurchase, The container is small.” – D. Taylor on Amazon
As I Am Pure Oils Virgin Black Seed Oil, $9.99
“Nice light oil. Doesnt weigh hair down. I use this on my kids hair. The smell isnt fruity, just smells like an oil. I love the AS I AM line so this was nice to add in. Bonus, you can just rub it in to your skin as a moisturizer!” – Yahira B. on Amazon
Carol’s Daughter Goddess Strength Hair & Scalp Oil, $11.99
“2nd bottle already. I love this product! I have really dry scalp with dandruff’s when am in braids. This product has helped with dandruff, itching and hair growth.” – Nkone on Target
“Would definitely recommend this! My child had very dull, dry hair and scalp and within hours of the first use her hair was much shinier and hydrated. Also super easy to apply, just sectioned her hair and rubbed it into her scalp/roots. She appreciated how easy it was.” – Grace on Target
Would you try black seed oil?
This article and the products mentioned have been updated.
