Black Cumin, a Plant that Strengthens and Cleanses Hair
What is Black Cumin Oil?
Black cumin is a plant native to Asia, related to the anemone. Its nickname “black cumin” comes from its culinary use of the black seeds. Their flavor is quite strong and pungent. In India, black cumin is often used as a spice to enhance curries or chutneys, for example.
But these seeds are not only a culinary ingredient; they are also used for therapeutic purposes because of their many benefits. Black cumin oil is said to soothe skin problems like acne. But it is also a valuable ally for hair health! The oil is obtained after the seeds are crushed and pressed.
The Benefits of Black Cumin Oil on Hair
Much like spirulina or fenugreek oil, black cumin oil has benefits for hair health. This oil exhibits strong antioxidant activity, protecting the body against the effects of free radicals. One of its components, thymoquinone, has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties as highlighted by this study. Therefore, black cumin oil could be a natural remedy to soothe scalp conditions like eczema or psoriasis.
Among other components of the plant are omegas 6 and 9. This content in fatty acids combined with its cleansing action makes it particularly interesting for relieving scalp issues.
Black cumin oil may have a beneficial effect on hair loss. This study shows that a vegetable oil based on black cumin reduced hair loss by three-fourths among the participants.
Black cumin oil could be interesting for fighting dandruff as it might help maintain a well-hydrated scalp. However, clinical studies are awaited to confirm this.
Also read How to Choose a Hair Supplement
This other study highlights the effect of a preparation with black cumin oil on Telogen effluvium. This is a temporary hair loss often resulting from a period of intense stress. Larger-scale studies are awaited to confirm this effect.
Black cumin oil can be recommended in cases of psoriasis, as evidenced by this study. This inflammatory skin condition can affect the scalp and result in itching and increased dandruff. This other study highlights its potential effect on atopic eczema.
How to Use Black Cumin Oil for Hair?
Choosing Black Cumin Oil
Black cumin oil has a yellow-orangish color, and its scent is quite strong and aromatic. It is available in bottles or capsules. It can be found in stores specializing in phytotherapy, most organic stores, and some pharmacies. It can also be ordered online.
- One may choose “unfiltered” black cumin oil, which has a lovely black color. It is generally recently pressed, which may be a sign of quality.
- Ethiopia is known for the quality of its black cumin seed cultivation. It is important to opt for quality oil to fully benefit from its properties.
- One should choose 100% pure and organic oil whenever possible.
- Favor oil obtained from first cold pressing. Cold pressing, without heating, helps preserve the active ingredients in the seeds as much as possible.
Is Black Cumin Oil Dangerous?
Check with a specialist to make sure you have no contraindications to the use of black cumin oil or if there is no risk of drug interactions. Since it contains essential oils, it is not recommended for pregnant women and children.
It poses no danger if these recommendations are followed, but be careful not to apply it to the eyes and mucous membranes, and discontinue use if any allergic reaction or irritation occurs.
Black Cumin Oil for Hair in Topical Use
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, it can help relieve certain scalp conditions like psoriasis.
As we have seen previously, it can stimulate hair growth and strengthen hair. Additionally, some claim its richness in omegas could hydrate the hair and make it more supple.
Due to its benefits, black seed oil is used in cosmetics in care formulations or shampoos. Some preparations are certified organic, and there are even solid shampoo formats.
For those who wish to make their own homemade care, here are some examples of hair care recipes with black seed oil.
Ideas for hair care with black seed oil
It is recommended to use black seed oil mixed with other oils in a 30% maximum proportion because its essential oil content remains relatively high. It can be diluted in a more neutral vegetable oil like avocado oil. In terms of dosage, one to two external applications per day are recommended.
Treatments to soothe irritated scalps
- You can simply apply a black seed oil bath on your scalp by combining it with other vegetable oils. Massage the scalp to ensure the preparation penetrates well.
- It can be combined with jojoba oil, which would have a beneficial effect on dandruff. Add a few drops of an essential oil suitable for irritated scalps, such as geranium or lavender essential oil.
Hair care for falling hair
- To promote growth and strengthen hair, a fortifying preparation can be made with fenugreek oil and mustard vegetable oil.
- Or it can be combined with castor oil, well known for making hair supple and less brittle.
- You can, for example, mix a tablespoon of black seed oil, a tablespoon of castor oil, a tablespoon of avocado oil, and a teaspoon of honey. Mix all the ingredients and apply the preparation to the hair, starting with the scalp. Leave it on overnight with a hair cap.
