Health

How Mushrooms Support Immune Function & Stress Resilience

From ancient Chinese medicine to modern wellness trends, there’s a reason mushrooms have earned a reputation as powerful allies in promoting resilience and vitality. But in recent years, their popularity has surged exponentially thanks to modern science finally discovering their real health benefits. These fungi are packed with bioactive compounds that support the immune system and help the body combat stress.  Here's all the reasons you shouldn’t be missing out on the benefits of these natural adaptogens, and how you can make sure to harness the best of them in your every-day life.  The Science Behind Mushrooms  It’s no secret that mushrooms are rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B, vitamin D, selenium, and potent antioxidants like ergothioneine. But what most people may not know is that they are also classified as adaptogens, as they help the body regulate stress and restore balance. They do this mainly by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis (the system responsible for managing stress and immune function). These compounds also contribute heavily towards cellular health, energy production, and overall immune resilience.  How Mushrooms Support Immune Function  Beta-Glucans And Anti-Oxidants: The Immune System’s Best Friend  Beta-glucans, found in Mushrooms, act as immunity modulators and naturally stimulate immune cells such as macrophages and white blood cells, which enhances the body’s ability to fight infections and other diseases that target your immune system.   Mushrooms also contain powerful antioxidants like ergothioneine and selenium, which help to combat oxidative stress (a condition where the body struggles to detoxify the effects of free radicals), which happens to be one of the largest factors behind a deteriorating immune system. These compounds from the mushrooms work towards repairing cell damage, reducing inflammation in your body and enhancing immune resilience.  Immune-Boosting Mushrooms  Reishi: Known as the "mushroom of immortality," Reishi supports immune balance and contains anti-cancer properties, as studies have shown that it inhabits the growth of cancer cells.  Shiitake: Rich in beta-glucans, Shiitake mushrooms enhance immune response and promote cardiovascular health. They are also a good source of vitamins, as they contain B vitamins (B2, B3, B5, B6), vitamin D, and even minerals such as copper, selenium, and zinc.  Maitake: These mushrooms are celebrated for their ability to stimulate white blood cell activity and fortifying the body's defence mechanisms.  How Mushrooms Enhance Stress Resilience  Most adaptogens help the body maintain homeostasis during stressful situations.    For example, chronic stress can lead to excess cortisol production, which can weaken the immune system and cause fatigue. Adaptogens help reduce cortisol in your body, which allows the body to recover more effectively from stress with no side effects. Lion’s Mane Mushrooms, Cordyceps and Chaga are all potent antioxidants that help reduce the side-effects of stress in your body and reduce overall fatigue levels too.   Nourishing Nutrients Organic Mushroom Powder  As amazing as mushrooms are, it’s not feasible to incorporate them in your diet. Some mushrooms are only available seasonally, and species like Shiitake and Maitake are hard to find outside speciality stores, which aren’t easy to come by. And even if you manage to source them, mushrooms take a lot of cleaning and preparation time.    However, organic mushroom supplements are a good option for those who are interested in taking full advantage of the benefits of mushrooms, without any of the hassle. Nourishing Nutrients’ Organic Mushroom Powder offers a potent blend of Reishi, Shiitake, Lion’s Mane, Cordyceps, Chaga, and Wood Ear mushrooms with maximized benefits to suit your needs.   High Potency: Contains over 30% Beta-D Glucans, making it significantly more effective than standard mushroom powders.  Pure & Organic: Sourced from wild mountain regions and select farms, free from fillers, chemicals, and GMOs.  Superior Extraction: The 14:1 extract ratio ensures maximum bioavailability, utilizing only the fruiting body of the mushrooms.  3rd Party Tested: Verified for purity and potency, ensuring a safe and effective product.       

The Power of Black Seed Oil for Immunity & Inflammation

In the realm of natural remedies, superfoods exist, and then there are the ancient,  time-tested elixirs. Black seed oil is one of them. Traditional medical practitioners have employed black seed oil for many centuries throughout global healthcare practices dating back to ancient Egyptian medicine and classical Ayurvedic practices. The black seed derived from Nigella sativa plants brings many valuable nutrients to humans as it holds both anti-inflammatory substances and antioxidants along with immune-stimulating properties. Historically known as the seed of blessing it brings invaluable compounds to the body.  Modern life factors such as stress and processed foods alongside environmental pollutants wear down our immune system resulting in persistent inflammation that triggers multiple health issues including joint pain and gastrointestinal distress alongside skin problems. Black seed oil allows natural body restoration that helps build protective mechanisms while supporting wellness in general. What is Black Seed Oil? The production of black seed oil originates from Nigella sativa seeds which are better recognized as black cumin or kalonji seeds of the southwest Asian plant species. Black seed stands as a tiny but mighty power source that contains antioxidants together with essential fatty acids alongside possibly active medical compounds called thymoquinone. Black Seed Oil for Immunity: Your Natural Defense Shield Your immune system is your body’s way of defending itself, and black seed oil keeps it working at peak capacity. Here’s  why: Black seed oil contains high levels of thymoquinone that decrease oxidative stress to minimize immune system suppression. Medical reports indicate that black seed oil possesses dual antiviral and antibacterial capabilities as well as immune-enhancing properties which helps fight flu and cold infections. Research indicates that black seed oil makes immune cells work better and this leads to a body system that fights off external infections more effectively. Whether you’re fighting seasonal sniffles or simply want to boost your system, black seed oil can provide your immune system with the boost it needs. Black Seed Oil vs. Inflammation: A Natural Remedy Chronic inflammation is the root of all the ailments of today—think joint pain, digestive issues, and even skin conditions. The natural anti-inflammatory characteristics of black seed oil create an appealing remedy for medical treatment. Black seed oil seems to provide relief from arthritis pain together with reducing muscle sore The anti-inflammatory compounds help solve digestive issues and provide relief from IBS symptoms as well as bloating. Black seed oil demonstrates its anti-inflammatory properties by naturally treating acne and eczema while fighting bacterial infections on the skin. Why Choose Nourishing Nutrients' Black Seed Oil When it comes to black seed oil, you should have the best—and Nourishing Nutrients' Black Seed Oil gives you the purest, most potent formula so you can realize its full potential. The natural goodness in our black seed oil stems from its abundance of antioxidants together with essential fatty acids and potent thymoquinone compounds. The extraction process uses a gentle cold-press method which preserves nutrients in their original state to achieve maximum strength without any additives or fillers. No heat, no chemicals—just pure natural goodness of black seed.  The multiple uses of our black cumin oil include consuming it orally for immune system enhancement and heart and digestion support while you can also apply it topically for skin smoothing and hair health and pain relief and use it in smoothies, tea and dressings for total health benefits.  All our batches undergo purity testing at the 3rd party laboratory because we strive to provide nothing less than pure toxin-free black seed oil to our customers with each serving. Small Seed, Big Impact  Black seed oil is more than an old wives' tale—it's a science-supported powerhouse with actual benefits to immunity and inflammation. Whether you want to give your body's defenses a boost, calm chronic pain, or get your skin glowing, this small seed is a big winner. The bad news? It costs money. The good news? A tried-and-true, all-natural solution that fits seamlessly into your routine. So why wait? A teaspoon a day might be the easy, efficient addition your routine has been missing.  

Mushrooms- Deliciously beneficial!

If you are aware of the trendy (yet beneficial) "Functional Foods," or if you want to get positive health benefits while also devouring your favorite foods, this article is just for you! As the name suggests, Functional Foods do not only excite your taste buds but also help your body function in a positive manner by giving you the right amount of nutrients that prevent your body from diseases and weaknesses. One such very common (not to mention, yummy) kitchen ingredient is the "Mushrooms." In addition, the fungi that are very fondly consumed along with steaks in many Italian dishes and as sauces to add that extra oomph to our meals also hold many medicinal benefits. Therefore, it's safe to say that this kitchen ingredient gives you the best of both worlds. When consumed the right kind, they can prove to be one of the richest sources of anti-cancer antiviral, antidiabetic, and immunomodulation agents. Moreover, as per functional food science, mushrooms are a good source of vitamins such as thiamine, riboflavin, ascorbic acid, niacin, and biotin. Although, as per studies, only 10% of mushrooms have been discovered so far, and out of which, not all are edible. We would like to mention some of the top medicinal mushrooms. 1. Anti-Cancer properties:  A wide range of purified biochemicals is obtained from mushrooms and used to combat diseases as well as improve the overall health of the body. The Reishi mushroom or the "Ganoderma Lucidum" grows in hot and humid habitats of Asia and has been very frequently used in Eastern Medicine. This type of mushroom gives a boost to white blood cells, resulting in increasing immunity of the body-the first and foremost requirement for the body to shield itself from all kinds of external virus attacks and fatal diseases. The *natural killer cells* boosted by the use of Reishi mushrooms can help fight against cancer and other infections in the human body. Although the most effective use of these mushrooms is supported by the already-infected bodies or in cancer patients, studies show that they can benefit healthy bodies too. While it is a magnificent and effective way of dealing with diseases, researchers recommend its use along with other medicines targeted for the disease instead of substituting them with this mushroom. Some studies also show that reishi mushrooms can help decrease anxiety and depression, control blood sugar level and heart health as well. However, more authentic research is being carried out to back this fact. 2. Anti-Diabetic properties: Dietary Fiber is a prominent source of controlling blood sugar levels in the body. Since mushrooms constitute a great percentage of dietary fiber, they help reduce the risk of diabetes as well prove to be effective in controlling blood sugar levels in already diabetic patients. Reishi mushroom alone has more than 400 nutrients and is a rich source of fiber. Blood Sugar Control is one of the major reason mushrooms were used in ancient medicine and are still widely used and cultivated all over the world for their tremendous health benefits. 3. Antioxidants Antioxidants present in natural food are a sought-after ingredient in preventive medicine. In general, antioxidants help neutralize the free radicals in the body- the molecules produced after your exposure to some sort of radiation, smoking, or just by the mere breakdown of food. These substances can potentially harm your body by developing cancer cells, heart problems, and a wide range of diseases. Mushrooms are a good source of antioxidants and hence help you maintain the Antioxidants-Free Radical order in the body.  It is essential for our body to balance the number of free radicals with antioxidants. If the count of our antioxidants is outnumbered, it results in oxidative stress, which leads to DNA destruction and eventually cell’s death. 4. Energy Boost and improvement of Bodily Functions: Some species of mushrooms are a very good nutritional source, providing selenium, potassium, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin D, proteins, and fiber while being low-fat, low-cal, and low in carbohydrates. These outstanding health benefits rank them as an overall healthy food staple, apart from being a culinary food attraction. Like the Reishi Mushrooms in Eastern medicine, Cordyceps Sinensis has been used in Chinese and Tibetan medicine. It is an exquisite hybrid composed of a caterpillar and fungus found in Sikkim at altitudes above 3,800 m. According to the Locals, it is believed to cure all known diseases by improving routine body functions such as sleeping patterns, endurance, and appetite. It’s also believed to provide an energy boost to the consumers. These mushrooms cater to a plethora of diseases, from cough to bronchitis to heart and liver problems, cholesterol to hepatitis, and fatigue to weakness-it has got you covered on almost all fronts. 5. Immunomodulatory agents As the current ongoing pandemic has schooled us all about the benefits of having a good immune system, it’s about time we start consuming organic substances that act as immunomodulatory agents and aid us in fighting a number of diseases, infections, and viruses. Mushrooms are one of the highly recommended food items proven to prepare a strong defence system for the body. A wide variety of fungi fall in the “mushrooms as medicine” category. Chaga, Reishi, Cordyceps, turkey tail, shiitake, lion’s mane, and maitake are all antioxidants and immunomodulatory agents. 6.  Source of Beta-D Glucan: If you are wondering why mushroom has been used in medicines for centuries, it is primarily because of its one very special component (among countless others) -Beta D Glucan. It is formed in the cell wall of mushrooms and has proven to be a strong agent against suppressing tumors in the body. The Mushroom Beta Glucans- MBGS, are also effective to be used for cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy. Many kinds of research proved Beta Glucan to effectively activate the immune response in order to defend the body from bacterial, viral, parasitic, and fungal infections. In simple terms, tumors spread further in the body by affecting surrounding tissues and hence forming secondary tumors in other parts of the body apart from the area where it originated. Beta-D Glucan prevents the cells from further harm by modifying the body's biological response and hence modulating the host immune system. Beta D Glucans are also widely used for treating heart diseases and high cholesterol levels in the body. 7.  Anti-Inflammatory Agents: Is there anything that mushrooms can’t bring to the table? No, we don’t think so! They also act as inflammatory agents for chronic inflammation, with the help of their constituents such as selenium, vitamin D, potassium and beta glucans. Most health experts advise to consume mushrooms alongside other medicines for achieving overall well-being of the body or just improve health conditions. Combating inflammation results in avoiding the risk of getting cancer, Parkinson's disease, and dementia. 8.  Remedy for Cough and Cold: Since mushrooms are widely used as medicines due to their antiviral properties, they happen to combat cough, common flu and cold. A cup of warm Mushroom tea can prove to be a quick remedy when you have attacked by the most common yet the most annoying virus, influenza or commonly known as “flu”. Mushrooms usually grow in the wild and while doing so, incorporate in them a number of compounds that can help them fight against the environmental bacteria and viruses. This property makes them an excellent immune-boosting food that is delicious yet effective against potential diseases. 8. Your guide to good skin: Mushrooms, as per studies, also help reduce acne and eczema due to their anti-inflammatory properties. Particularly, Reishi mushroom, helps cure acne alongside reducing stress, insomnia and fatigue. Due to its wide spectrum of health benefits, its medicinal benefits have been used since ancient times. Today, modern medicine considers mushrooms a staple when it comes to functional foods. Several varieties of mushrooms are used in anti-aging creams, face masks and other skin care products as they help minimize pores, hydrates the skin, exfoliates the skin, reduces blemishes and boosts vitamins giving you facial glow. 9. Stops hair loss: Stops hair loss: Mushrooms are high in iron and can meet your daily iron needs, preventing anemia and other health problems. A mushroom-rich diet can help prevent hair loss and promote the growth of new hair. Mushrooms are also known for their high copper content, which helps to slow down greying. Reishi mushrooms, which have been used in traditional Chinese medicine for centuries, can help to prevent balding and premature hair loss. Anti-inflammatory chemicals found in reishi mushrooms helps to protect damaged hair. They also increase hair growth by improving blood circulation in the scalp. Bottom Line: There are numerous methods to include mushroom medicine into your daily routine. Mushrooms are considered advantageous as a preventive treatment to promote immuno-stimulation against infections, as well as for their many other health benefits.

Food for Immune System Booster: 5 Foods That Strengthen Your Immune System

  In this unprecedented global pandemic, you may be wondering what you can do to naturally strengthen your immune system.   Did you know that you can use food for an immune system booster? Several nutrition-packed foods may help bolster your natural immunity, making it easier for your body to ward off harmful bacteria or viruses.   Although eating these foods can’t prevent COVID-19 or any other disease, they are rich in compounds that can naturally give your immune system a boost.   Here are 5 foods you can eat as immune system boosters. 1. Mushrooms Mushrooms have earned their status as a superfood. They have adaptogenic and nootropic properties, meaning they may help boost your brain function and your overall wellness.   In addition, they have several potentially immune-boosting properties as well. Mushrooms contain anti-inflammatory antioxidants, which can help ward off unstable free radical compounds and reverse some of the cellular damage caused by these compounds. They are also rich in vitamin D, which plays a key role in immune health (1).   In fact, one high-quality 4-week study of 52 adults found that eating 5-10 grams of shiitake mushrooms daily resulted in increased immune cell production and decreased inflammation (2).   Mushrooms can be added to a variety of dishes, but they’re excellent in stir-fries, salads, and soups. They can also be used as a meat substitute if you’re following a vegan or vegetarian diet.   If you dislike the taste of mushrooms, you could try using a mushroom powder, like Nourishing Nutrients Superfood 10. It's made from 10 different types of organic mushrooms and can be added to coffee or other drinks, allowing you to get the benefits of mushrooms even if you dislike the taste. 2. Sea Moss Sea moss, or Irish moss, is a type of red algae that grows on rocks on the coasts of Europe, North American, and the Caribbean Islands.   It’s rich in minerals that may help boost your immune health, like potassium and iodine.   Iodine is an essential mineral found in sea moss. It’s an essential component of your thyroid hormones and helps regulate thyroid health. It’s also a potent antioxidant, meaning it can help prevent and reverse some of the cellular damage caused by free radicals (5).   Potassium, another mineral, may help regulate the body’s resistance to tumor growth. However, more research is needed regarding this possibility (6).   Sea moss also contains a number of other compounds that may help your immune system, like antioxidants and vitamins.   Sea moss is used in some Irish and Jamaican recipes, but most people choose to supplement with it instead of eat it. It’s can be added to foods, drinks, or smoothies, or taken alone. To reap some of the benefits of sea moss, you can try a sea moss supplement. 3. Bone Broth Bone broth is a broth made from the bones of animals—usually chicken, pork, or beef bones. Unlike a regular soup stock, bone broth is cooked slowly—allowing all of the compounds found in the bone to infuse into the broth. The result is a rich, deep-flavored broth that is packed with nutrition.   Bone broth contains collagen, a type of protein found in your skin and connective tissues that can help promote healing (7).   It also contains three key amino acids—or building blocks of protein—that may boost immune health: arginine, glutamine, and cysteine. Glutamine in particular appears to increase the proliferation of immune cells, potentially promoting a stronger immune response to perceived threats (8, 9).   Finally, research may even support the idea that chicken soup can help when you’re sick. Homemade chicken soup is typically made from a broth using simmered chicken bones, so it provides some of the same benefits as bone broth. Homemade chicken soup may help you get over a cold faster and, according to a study from the 1970s, improve nasal congestion (10, 11).   You can buy bone broth at most stores or make it yourself using the leftover bones from meat you cook. 4. Black garlic Black garlic is a type of aged garlic that’s bursting with flavor. It’s also long been used in traditional medicine. The strictly-regulated aging process that it goes through over weeks or months caramelizes the natural sugars found in the garlic, turning it black and giving it a sticky texture and milder, sweeter flavor than raw garlic.   Black garlic contains a compound called allicin, which provides many of its potentially immune-boosting benefits. Allicin is antimicrobial—meaning it can kill certain disease-causing cells, at least in test-tube studies. It’s also anti-inflammatory, and may help improve heart health (3, 4).   Enjoy black garlic in any recipe you’d use raw garlic in. It’s got a great, rich flavor that meshes well with most types of food. 5. Strawberries Strawberries are a healthy and delicious fruit, low in sugar and high in fiber. They’re a great addition to any diet.    Strawberries are rich in vitamin C, an essential, anti-inflammatory nutrient that exerts many positive effects on the immune system. It can decrease inflammation and promote the neutralization of unstable free radical compounds, and promote the proliferation and effectiveness of your body’s immune cells (12).   Strawberries are great on their own, but also an excellent addition to smoothies and salads.   Conclusion  These foods—rich in antioxidants, nutrients, and other healthy compounds—may help equip your body to ward off infection and illness. They can serve as natural foods for an immune system booster.   If you’re strapped for time and unable to cook healthy meals regularly, you can also try the mushroom extract supplement by Nourishing Nutrients for all of the benefits of these foods in a super-convenient form.   References: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29146352/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25866155/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25153873/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30537531/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28103777/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30923211/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29601617/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17403271/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30360490/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11035691/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/359266/ https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29099763/

The Superfood Qualities Of Mushrooms And Why You Should Add Them To Your Diet

Author- Barbie Ritzman The term "superfood," depending on where you live has been around for a while. I see it everywhere in California, but locally I only see it at some of the Mom & Pop health food stores. But the wonderful thing is you can go online for these Superfoods, to places like Nourishing Nutrients, which makes it convenient. For 2019, I decided to go back to a trainer friend of mine. While I can’t drive to workout with him any longer in person, he did put together an excellent plan for me, and one of them included adding some Superfoods to my daily diet. Now I know you are probably wondering what the Heck Is A Superfood? Well to put it simply, the term Superfood refers to foods that offer maximum nutritional benefits with minimal calories, which is why they are great to add to other foods, especially a protein shake, smoothie, and soups. Not only do Superfoods have minimal calories, but the benefit is they are packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants and boy do I love me some antioxidants! The Antioxidant Benefits Of Superfoods Being a woman in her forties, I need as many rich antioxidants that I can get as they are amazing at helping to neutralize free radicals in our bodies. Free radicals can wreak havoc on the body especially the skin as they cause damage to the cellular structure. This damage can speed up the skin's aging, by breaking down the skin’s collagen, which can lead to premature aging with sagging, wrinkled skin and who the heck wants that? Antioxidant molecules found in superfoods, can decrease and in some cases reverse the effects of free radicals, which is one reason I am all about them! But it doesn’t stop there. Superfoods are great at basically supercharging your health, immunity boosting, and more! The Superfood Qualities Of Mushrooms And Why You Should Add Them To Your Diet One Superfood that I am implementing into my diet is a product from Nourishing Nutrients, SUPERFOOD 10 Organic Mushroom Powder Extract. The benefits of mushrooms are huge. They have a great deal of nutritional value, are full of micronutrients, are low in carbohydrates and sodium and high in fiber and potassium (more than a banana), oh and they have no fat! Nourishing Nutrients Superfood 10 Mushroom Powder Extract Blend This Superfood blend has 10 different mushrooms. The extract powder is derived from Ancient Chinese Medicinal Techniques. Dating back to 400A.D. This powder is: Hot water extract (no alcohol used) USDA certified organic Made in an FDA registered facility Gluten Free 100% WHOLE FRUITING BODIES, NO mycelium (grain) Free from fillers, grains & mycelium Vegan-friendly Mostly Wild mountain harvested mushrooms NOT genetically engineered mushrooms 10 PURE MUSHROOM EXTRACTS to include: Reishi, Chaga, Maitake, Cordyceps, Shiitake, Lions Mane, TurkeyTail, Oyster, Phellinus linteus, and Wood Ear Mushroom. What Are The Benefits And Uses Of Mushroom Powder Extract If you’re interested in adding more mushrooms to your diet, this powder is a fantastic way to do it. It can be mixed into your food in a variety of ways very easily. Mushrooms add a nutty taste and can be added to some of the below. Ways To Add More Mushrooms To Your Diet Coffee Tea Hot Cocoa Smoothie Breaksfast Superfood Bowls Protein drinks Oatmeal Add to food & broth to enhance their flavors As a meat substitute In soups, sautés, salad dressings and so much more! Click Here For Hot Cocoa Recipe Benefits Of Adding Mushrooms To Your Diet A diet rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants can help you live a longer, healthier life. The product from Nourishing nutrients has many benefits, helping with things such as… Obesity (Mushrooms are prebiotic, which means they nourish the healthy bacteria in your gut, which could also help treat obesity) Protects the cells from free radicals Improves mood- mental focus & lowers stress Immunity boosting & cell health supporting Detoxifying Energy & endurance Increase satiety and reduces appetite Packed with fiber Vitamin Rich: Vitamin C that can help to boost immunity and lower inflammation in the body. Vitamin A which can assist with detoxifying the body, improving skin and hair health. Excellent source of Potassium. Potassium works with sodium to help your body maintain a proper water and electrolyte balance. Hence helping with things like lowering your blood pressure, dehydration, muscle cramps, and much more! Overall consuming more superfood mushrooms may be one of the most important foods you can eat to improve your health and using a product like Nourishing Nutrients 10 Pure Mushroom Powder Extract makes it easier to consume! Author- Barbie Ritzman

9 Proven Black Seed Oil Benefits that Boost Your Health

If you take a look at the hundreds of scientific peer-reviewed articles that have been published about black seed oil benefits, one fact is clear: There are few issues that it cannot help the body overcome. With virtually no side effects, the healing prowess of black seed oil — back from black cumin seeds — is actually quite unbelievable, and it boggles the mind that most people have never even heard of it! Read on find out what black seed oil is all about, along with all the wonderful black seed oil benefits out there. What Is Black Seed Oil? Black seed oil is made from the seeds of the black cumin (Nigella sativa) plant, which belongs to the ranunculus family (Ranunculaceae). The black cumin plant is native to southwestern Asia, the Mediterranean and Africa. It has been grown for centuries for its aromatic and flavorful seeds that can be used as a spice or as an herbal medicine. (1) Black seed oil is also commonly called black cumin seed oil. Be careful, as black seed should not be confused with true cumin (Cuminum cyminum), black pepper, black sesame or black cohosh. Quite possibly, the most promising research has been done connecting Nigella sativa to multi-drug resistant bacteria. This is a really big deal because these so-called “superbugs” are becoming a significant public health risk. According to the National Institute of Health: (2) Strains of bacteria and viruses that are antimicrobial-resistant are becoming virtually impossible to treat, including HIV, staphylococcal, tuberculosis, influenza, gonorrhea, candida and malaria. Between 5 percent to 10 percent of all hospital patients develop an infection from superbugs. More than 90,000 of these patients die every year, up from 13,300 patient deaths in 1992. People infected with superbugs typically have longer hospital stays, require more complicated treatment and don’t recover as well. A study conducted by Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College researchers set out to determine just how potent black seed oil is against some of these superbugs and paired it against several antibiotics, such as Amoxicillin, Gatifloxacin and Tetracycline. According to the study, “Out of 144 strains tested, most of which were resistant to a number of antibiotics, 97 were inhibited by the oil of black cumin.” (3) Next to oregano oil, few things on the planet can boast this type of potency to microbes. The study uncovered that it was especially effective against multi-drug resistant strains of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. The key to understanding why black seed oils benefits the body in this way is because it’s rich in three key natural chemicals: thymoquinone (TQ), thymohydroquinone (THQ) and thymol. Let’s take a closer look at this amazing components of black seed oil. The Power Behind Black Seed Oil Benefits: Phytochemicals In an effort to offer a solution to the growing antifungal resistant problem people have with yeasts and molds, a recent study was conducted with the purpose of determining if Nigella sativa seed oil could help. Published in the Egyptian Journal of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, scientists tested thymol, TQ and THQ against 30 human pathogens and were surprised to discover that: (4) Each compound showed 100 percent inhibition for the 30 pathogens evaluated. Thymoquinone was the best antifungal compound against all of the tested dermatophytes and yeasts, followed by thymohydroquinone and thymol. Thymol was the best antifungal against molds followed by TQ and THQ. What this study tells us is that Nigella sativa oil carries a very unique chemical constituency that is not only effective individually, but more importantly also collectively. Essentially proving that fungus and molds cannot exist in the presence of these phytochemicals, it is no wonder why researchers are seeking to solve the superbug problem with black seed oil. Thymoquinone: An active ingredient in black seed, researchers have been investigating TQ since the 1960s. It is well-known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties that have been reported to help with encephalomyelitis, diabetes, asthma and carcinogenesis. (5) Interestingly, thymoquinone acts as a free radical or an effective superoxide radical scavenger, in addition to preserving antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase and glutathione-S-transferase. Both glutathione peroxidase and S-transferase are heralded for being major detoxifiers and greatly aid in cellular antioxidant defense systems because they protect the liver from toxins. (6, 7) Thymohydroquinone: Akin to thymoqinone, thymohydroquinone is one of the most potent natural acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors on the planet. (8) AChE inhibitors are chemicals that stop enzyme activity, which increases the amount of time and the amount of the neurotransmitter acetylecholine remains active in the brain. To give you an idea of their usefulness, pharmaceutical-grade acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are used medicinally to treat a wide range of conditions, including: (9) Apathy Alzheimer’s disease Autism Glaucoma Dementia Myasthenia gravis Neurodegenerative conditions Postural tachycardia syndrome Schizophrenia Parkinson’s disease Considering that the pharmaceutical approach to these diseases comes at a great cost to the patient, it offers much hope to literally millions to learn that safe, plant-based solutions are a viable alternative! Thymol: The active ingredient that gives thyme essential oil its medicinal properties, thymol is a natural monoterpene that holds a number of useful qualities. For example: (10, 11) It is commonly used as a tuberculocide and virucides to kill TB and various viruses. It is used as a medical and general-purpose disinfectant. It is a rapidly degrading, non-persisting pesticide. It is also used in food flavorings, perfumes, mouthwashes and even cosmetics. These incredible phytochemicals lead to all kinds of amazing black seed oil benefits — which I’m about to share with you now!   Top 9 Black Seed Oil Benefits Of the many ways that black seed oil benefits the body, the nine that stick out in the scientific literature tout its ability to help prevent cancer, diabetes, obesity, hair loss, skin disorders and infections like MRSA. 1. Helps Fight Cancer Thanks to its potent phytochemicals and antioxidant capabilities, black seed oil has been shown to help naturally treat cancer. Croatian scientists evaluated the antitumor activity of thymoquinone and thymohydroquinone using an animal model study and discovered that these two phytochemicals found in black seed oil resulted in a 52 percent decrease in tumor cells. (12) In vitro research in recent years also reveals that thymoquinone, the most abundant bioactive component in black seed oil, helps induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in leukemia cells, breast cancer cells and brain tumor cells. (13, 14, 15) Additionally, researchers from the Sidney Kimmel Cancer Center at Jefferson Health have shown that not only can black seed kill off pancreatic cancer cells, but it also appears to inhibit development of pancreatic cancer. This cancer preventative ability is attributed to black seed’s thymoquinone and its anti-inflammatory properties. (16) 2. Promotes Liver Health The liver is one of the most important organs in the body. Nearly every toxin gets processed through the liver, and the bile from the liver is the key to digesting fats and keeping your mind and body happy and healthy. For those that have struggled with poor liver function due to medication side effects, alcohol consumption or disease, black seed oil could greatly speed the healing process. In a recent animal model study, scientists discovered that black seed oil benefits the function of the liver and helps prevent both damage and disease. (17) 3. Combats Diabetes Explained in a recent article published by the Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, researchers from the Indian Council of Medical Research highlight that black seed oil “causes gradual partial regeneration of pancreatic beta-cells, increases the lowered serum insulin concentrations and decreases the elevated serum glucose.” (19) This is actually quite profound because Nigella sativa is one of the few substances on the planet that is suggested to help prevent both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In fact, according to the study, black seed “improves glucose tolerance as efficiently as metformin; yet it has not shown significant adverse effects and has very low toxicity.” This is huge because metformin, one of the most commonly prescribed type 2 diabetes drugs, can cause a wide slew of side effects, including: (20) Bloating Constipation/diarrhea Flushing of the skin Gas/indigestion Heartburn Headache Nail changes Metallic taste in mouth Muscle pain Stomach pain 4. Aids Weight Loss Black seed oil weight loss claims actually do have some science behind them. The Journal of Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders published a study systemically reviewing the literature for plants that have anti-obesity properties and discovered that black seed oil was among the most effective natural remedies on the planet. (21) Another systematic review and meta-analysis published in 2018 highlights the findings of at least 11 placebo-controlled clinical trials that reveal the ability of a black seed supplement to help lower body weight. Supplementation was also shown to decrease body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference. It’s also important to note that there were no serious side effects of black seed supplementation reported in any of the studies. (22) 5. Protects Skin In a study conducted by Iranian researchers, Nigella saliva was found as effective as the skin cream Betamethasone in improving quality of life and decreasing severity of hand eczema. (23) As long as you don’t have an allergic reaction to black seed oil, it does not come with a laundry list of terrifying side effects like conventional creams. Betamethasone, for example, may cause swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing, skin color changes, dark freckles, easy bruising, muscle weakness, and severe attention. Weight gain around your neck, upper back, breast, face or waist is also in the realm of possibility. (24) I don’t know about you, but I would much rather use something natural on my skin like black seed oil. 6. Benefits Hair In addition to being a natural skincare aid, there are also black seed oil benefits for hair. Not surprisingly, black seed oil is often featured on lists of natural ways to boost hair and scalp health in numerous ways. Since it contains nigellone, shown by research to be an impressive antihistamine, it may help with hair loss due to androgenic alopecia or alopecia areata. With its antioxidant, antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties, it can also help the health of the scalp in general, discouraging dandruff and dryness, and improve hair health at the same time. (25, 26) 7. Treats Infections (MRSA) Of all the superbugs that black seed oil can kill, methicillin resistant staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is one of the most important. MRSA is plaguing hospitals and nursing homes across the globe because ordinary staph infections are becoming resistant to generic antibiotics. The elderly population is especially at risk because it is generally associated with invasive procedures, such as surgeries, intravenous tubing and artificial joints. (27) Primarily due to weakened immunity, the growing population of senior citizens has made MRSA a global public health risk. Thankfully, one of the strongest black seed oil benefits may help. Pakistan scientists took several strains of MRSA and discovered that each one was sensitive to N. sativa, proving that black seed oil can help slow down or stop MRSA from spreading out of control. (28) 8. Improves Fertility In addition to possibly helping with hair loss, there are some other really impressive black seed oil benefits like its ability to naturally improve fertility. One randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial evaluated whether or not black seed oil could help infertile male subjects with abnormal sperm. The control group orally took 2.5 milliliters of black seed oil while the placebo group received the same amount of liquid paraffin twice a day for two months. What did researchers find? The results revealed that the black seed oil group had improvements in their sperm count as well as sperm motility and semen volume. (29) A systematic review published in 2015 in the Journal of Herbal Medicine also looked at the effects of black seeds on male infertility. The researchers reviewed studies that took place between 2000 and 2014, and overall, they concluded that black seed can “positively influence sperm parameters, semen, Leydig cells, reproductive organs and sexual hormones.” (30) 9. Balances Cholesterol Did you know that there may even ben black seed oil benefits for cholesterol? It’s true! A study using an animal model published in 2017 found that an aqueous extract of Nigella sativa not only had anti-diabetic effects on animal subjects, but also helped with cholesterol. After six weeks of given the diabetic animal subjects low doses of black seed, total cholesterol, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol and glucose levels all came down while HDL (“good”) cholesterol increased. (31) Another older randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial was conducted with human subjects who had mild hypertension. There was a placebo group, a group that took 100 milligrams of black seed twice a day and a group that took 200 milligrams twice a day. After eight weeks of this supplementation, researchers found that the people who took the black seed supplement had their systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure decrease in “a dose-dependent manner.” Additionally, the black seed extract supplement caused a “significant decline” in both total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. (32) So overall, it appears that black seed may help lower cholesterol as well as blood sugar and blood pressure. Black Seed Oil Uses With the long list of black seed oil benefits, you might think were were talking about multivitamins, but no, we’re just examining one simple yet incredible seed. Now, let’s talk about how to use black seed oil. Spoiler alert: There are so many ways! For starters, black cumin oil can be used topically, but always make sure to dilute it with a a few teaspoons of a carrier oil like coconut or almond oil. Once diluted, it can help with common skin concerns like acne and eczema thanks to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Some people also find it helpful for psoriasis and rosacea. It can easily be added to homemade massage oils and lotions to experience the many black cumin seed benefits. For a warming massage, simply add one drop to one tablespoon of a carrier oil. To boost hair and scalp health, a few drops of oil can be added to hair products like shampoo and conditioner. If you enjoy making homemade fragrances with essential oils, it’s good to know that black seed oil has a peppery scent and works well as a base note. With its spicy flavor, a high-quality (100 percent pure, therapeutic grade and certified USDA organic) black seed oil can be used in all kinds of recipes from meat main courses to soups and stews. You can also add it to beverages like chai tea latte and smoothies. A premium black seed oil option should always be 100 percent pure, therapeutic grade and certified USDA organic. Some companies also specify that their black seed oil is cold-pressed, which typically means that the oil is extracted from the Nigella sativa seeds without the use of heat from an external source resulting. Sometimes, cold-pressed oils are said to be more flavorful. If you don’t like taking liquid supplements, you can also find black seed oil capsules. The appropriate black seed oil dosage can vary by individual and health status. At this time, there is no standard dosage, but the following dosages by mouth have been studied in scientific research to date: (33) For diabetes: 1 tsp of black seed oil take twice a day for up to 12 months. For high blood pressure: 2 tsp of black seed oil daily for up to 12 weeks or 100–200 milligrams black seed oil twice daily for eight weeks. To improve sperm function: 2.5 mL black seed oil twice daily for two months. For asthma: 2 tsp of ground black seed taken daily for 12 weeks.  

Black Seed Oil benefits & how to choose the best type

Black Seed oil- A Natural Immune System Booster

  Black Seed, what is it? Nigella sativa or Black Seed herb is a flowering herb native to the Middle East and southwest Asia. The seeds of the fruit are used as a spice, in confectionery, in food, and in liquors. Also known as Black Cumin, Kalonji, Habbat Al-Barakah or Seed of Blessing, in the traditional healing systems of the region, Black Seed is used as a natural digestive aid. Why does it help boost your immune system? The immune system boosting properties of Black Seed was noted in (Ibn Sina) Avicenna’s 1025 A.D. Canon of Medicine, who used the seed for stimulating the body's energy and speed recovery from fatigue. Black Seed contains over 100 valuable components and is a significant source of fatty acids, proteins, carbohydrates and other vitamins and minerals. Today it is used as a good source of energy, to detoxify and rejuvenate the body, aid in digestion, boost the body’s natural immune system and ease cough and colds, to name just a few. Black Seeds anti-inflammatory properties for conditions such as rheumatism and inflammatory disease were studied in 1960 by a group of scientists from the Department of Pharmacy at Kings College in London. They tested black seed oil and its derivative thyomoquinone as an anti-inflammatory agent. What they discovered was that the Black Seed oil possessed antioxidant activity and it inhibited certain types of short lived local tissue hormone responsible for inflammation. The antioxidants in the oil helped to slow the cartilage degeneration. The inhibitory effect suggested to the researchers that other compounds in the oil might be responsible for the enhanced anti-inflammatory reactions in cells. They concluded that pharmacological properties of Black Seed and its derived products support the traditional use of Black Seed as a treatment for rheumatism and related inflammatory diseases. With all the benefits of Black Seed, incorporating it into your daily routine is easy. To make a warm healthy tea mix black seed (crushed) and pure honey with warm water. This tea can also help when you have a cough and cold and to help ease intestinal gas. While there is still more to be studied on the benefits of black seed, it seems as though it can be helpful for a wide variety of ailments. More importantly though, as with most nutritional and healthy substances it should be incorporated into an overall holistic approach to one’s everyday health so that its healing properties can help build the body's immune system over time, supplying it with the optimum resources it needs to help prevent and fight illness.

Top 7 Benefits of Black Seed Oil

Of the 630 scientific peer-reviewed articles that have been published about black seed oil benefits, one fact is clear: there are few issues that it cannot help the body overcome. With virtually no side effects, the healing prowess of black seed is actually quite unbelievable and it boggles the mind that most Americans have never heard of it! Better health. Zero side effects. Learn how to boost your health with black seed oil. Download the free guide now. Unique Black Seed Oil Benefits The uniqueness of the seeds from southwest Asia Nigella sativa is first realized by the many names that it is referred to: (1) Black cumin Black caraway Black sesame Onion seed Roman coriander “Black seed” is actually more of a description than a proper name, yet is preferred because it helps to distinguish it from caraway and cumin. Many health experts claim that it is, indeed, a true panacea; able to help treat everything from allergies to hypertension. Quite possibly, the most promising research has been done connecting Nigella sativa to multi-drug resistant bacteria. This is a real big deal because these so-called “superbugs” are becoming a significant public health risk. According to the National Institute of Health: (2) Strains of bacteria and viruses that are antimicrobial-resistant are becoming virtually impossible to treat; including HIV, staphylococcal, tuberculosis, influenza, gonorrhea, candida and malaria. Between 5–10% of all hospital patients develop an infection from superbugs. More than 90,000 of these patients die every year, up from 13,300 patient deaths in 1992. People infected with superbugs typically have longer hospital stays, require more complicated treatment and don’t recover as well. A study conducted by Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College researchers set out to determine just how potent black seed oil against some of these superbugs and pared it against several antibiotics, such as Amoxicillin, Gatifloxacin and Tetracycline. According to the study, “Out of 144 strains tested, most of which were resistant to a number of antibiotics, 97 were inhibited by the oil of black cumin.” Next to oregano oil, few things on the planet can boast this type of potency to microbes. The study uncovered that it was especially effective against multi-drug resistant strains of P. aeruginosa and S. aureus. The key to understanding why black seed oils benefits the body in this way is because it’s rich in three key natural chemicals: thymoquinone (TQ), thymohydroquinone (THQ) and thymol. The Power Behind Black Seed Oil Benefits: Phytochemicals In an effort to offer a solution to the growing antifungal resistant problem people have with yeasts and molds, a recent study was conducted with the purpose of determining if Nigella sativa seed oil could help. Published in the Egyptian Journal of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, scientists tested thymol, TQ and THQ against 30 human pathogens and were surprised to discover that: (3) Each compound showed 100% inhibition for the thirty pathogens evaluated. Thymoquinone was the best antifungal compound against all of the tested dermatophytes and yeasts, followed by thymohydroquinone and thymol. Thymol was the best antifungal against molds followed by TQ and THQ. What this study tells us is that Nigella sativa oil carries a very unique chemical constituency that is not only effective individually, but more importantly also collectively. Essentially proving that fungus and molds cannot exist in the presence of these phytochemicals, it is no wonder why researchers are seeking to solve the superbug problem with black seed oil. Thymoquinone – An active ingredient in black seed, researchers have been investigating TQ since the 1960s. It is well known for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties that have been reported to help with encephalomyelitis, diabetes, asthma and carcinogenesis. (4) Interestingly, thymoquinone acts as a free radical or an effective superoxide radical scavenger, in addition to preserving antioxidant enzymes glutathione peroxidase and glutathione-S-transferase. Both Glutathione peroxidase and S-transferase are heralded for being major detoxifiers and greatly aid in cellular antioxidant defense systems because they protect the liver from toxins. (4,5) Thymohydroquinone – Akin to thymoqinone, thymohydroquinone is one of the most potent natural acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitors on the planet. (6) AChE inhibitors are chemicals that stop enzyme activity, which increases the amount of time and the amount of the neurotransmitter acetylecholine remains active in the brain. To give you an idea of their usefulness, pharmaceutical-grade acetylcholinesterase inhibitors are used medicinally to treat a wide range of conditions including: (7) Apathy Alzheimer’s disease Autism Glaucoma Dementia Myasthenia gravis Neurodegenerative conditions Postural Tachycardia Syndrome Schizophrenia Parkinson’s disease Considering that the pharmaceutical approach to these diseases comes at a great cost to the patient, it offers much hope to literally millions to learn that safe, plant-based solutions are a viable alternative! Thymol – The active ingredient that gives thyme essential oil its medicinal properties, thymol is a natural monoterpene that holds a number of useful qualities. For example, (8) (9) It is commonly used as a tuberculocide and virucides to kill TB and various viruses. It is used as a medical and general-purpose disinfectant. It is a rapidly degrading, non-persisting pesticide. It is also used in food flavorings, perfumes, mouthwashes and even cosmetics. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, (9) Thymol is among those pesticides for which EPA believes a broadly reduced set of generic data requirements is appropriate for reregistration. The Agency, therefore, has waived most generic data requirements for thymol with the exception of studies that are considered essential, including additional information about chemical purity, and product chemistry studies. Top 7 Black Seed Oil Benefits Of the many ways that black seed oil benefits the body, the six that stick out in the scientific literature tout its ability to help prevent cancer, diabetes, obesity, hair loss, skin disorders and infections like MRSA. 1. Cancer Croatian scientists evaluated the antitumor activity of thymoquinone and thymohydroquinone in mice and discovered that the two phytochemicals in black seed oil can resulted in 52 percent decrease in tumor cells. (10) Being rich in both chemicals, black seed is unique in that it can help prevent and treat cancer through a variety of mechanisms: Anti-proliferation Apoptosis induction Cell cycle arrest Reactive oxygen species generation Anti-metastasis Anti-angiogenesis According to one study, The anti-tumor effects of thymoquinone have also been investigated in tumor xenograft mice models for colon, prostate, pancreatic and lung cancer. The combination of thymoquinone and conventional chemotherapeutic drugs could produce greater therapeutic effect as well as reduce the toxicity of the latter. (11) 2. Liver Health The liver is one of the most important organs in the body. Nearly every toxin gets processed through the liver, and the bile from the liver is the key to digesting fats and keeping your mind and body happy and healthy. For those that have struggled with poor liver function due to medication side effects, alcohol consumption or disease, black seed oil could greatly speed the healing process. In a recent study, scientists discovered that black seed oil benefits the function of the liver and helps prevent both damage and disease. (12) 3. Diabetes Explained in a recent article published by the Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism, researchers from the Indian Council of Medical Research highlight that black seed oil “causes gradual partial regeneration of pancreatic beta-cells, increases the lowered serum insulin concentrations and decreases the elevated serum glucose.” (13) This is actually quite profound because Nigella sativa is one of the few substances on the planet that is suggested to help prevent both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. In fact, according to the study, black seed “improves glucose tolerance as efficiently as metformin; yet it has not shown significant adverse effects and has very low toxicity.” (13) This is HUGE because metformin, one of the most commonly prescribed type 2 diabetes drugs, can cause a wide slew of side effects including: (14) Bloating Constipation/diarrhea Flushing of the skin Gas/indigestion Heartburn Headache Nail changes Metallic taste in mouth Muscle pain Stomach pain 4. Weight Loss The Journal of Diabetes and Metabolic Disorders published a study systemically reviewing the literature for plants that have anti-obesity properties and discovered that black seed oil was amongst the most effective natural remedies on the planet. (15) Not traditionally believed to treat obesity, Nigella sativa is a marvelous anti-inflammatory agent that is known to help people lose weight in the same way that it helps diabetics. Specifically, by decreasing these weight gain triggers, black seed oil has helped millions shed excess weight: (16) Appetite Glucose absorption in the intestine Liver gluconeogenesis Blood glucose levels Cholesterol Triglycerides 5. Hair Probably one of the most unique black seed oil benefits is its uncanny ability to help restore hair loss. No one quite understands why it happens, but it’s not too hard to guess that it has something to do with its powerful antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. By strengthening hair follicles, there is very good reason to see how black seed oil can help promote strengthened hair roots. 6. Skin Produced in the retina, choroid and epidermis, melanin are pigments that protect the skin from damage. You probably are most family with it being the main chemical responsible for giving our eyes and skin their individual color. Known to promote and inhibit melanogenesis (melanin production), black seed oil benefits on the skin and other cells are profoundly healing. (17, 18) For example, in a study conducted by Iranian researchers, Nigella saliva was found as effective as the skin cream Betamethasone in improving quality of life and decreasing severity of hand eczema. (19) When you consider that black seed oil has virtually no side effects, the benefits of Nigella, in fact, far exceed medical intervention! 7. Infections (MRSA) Of all the superbugs that black seed oil can kill, Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus (MRSA) is one of the most important. MRSA is plaguing hospitals and nursing homes across the globe because ordinary staph infections are becoming resistant to generic antibiotics. The elderly population is especially at risk because it is generally associated with invasive procedures such as surgeries, intravenous tubing and artificial joints. (20) Primarily due to weakened immunity, the growing population of senior citizens has made MRSA a global public health risk. Thankfully, one of the strongest black seed oil benefits may help. Pakistan scientists took several strains of MRSA and discovered that each one was sensitive to N. Sativa, proving that black seed oil can help slow down or stop MRSA from spreading out of control. (21)