Black seed oil is extracted from the seeds of Nigella sativa, a plant native to southwest Asia. It is used by some for the treatment of asthma, diabetes, hypertension, weight loss, and other conditions. One of its key components is thymoquinone, a compound with antioxidant properties. There is scientific evidence to support some, but not all uses for black seed oil.
Although research on the health effects of black seed oil is fairly limited, there’s some evidence that it may offer certain benefits. Here’s a look at several key findings from available studies.