Black seed oil from Egypt: uses, safety and how to choose

Black seed oil comes from the seeds of Nigella sativa, a plant used in traditional remedies for centuries. You can use it as a cosmetic oil on skin and hair, but research on these uses is still limited. Test it on a small patch of skin first. This guide is for visitors who want to try it in Sharm or take it home.

What is black seed oil?

Nigella sativa is a small plant from the buttercup family, with pale blue and white flowers. Its tiny black seeds are used as a spice and in traditional remedies. Egypt is one of the countries where it is grown.

In English the seeds are called black seed or black cumin. In Arabic they are known as habbat al-barakah, the “seed of blessing”. The most widely studied active substance in the seeds is thymoquinone.

We stock Lotus black seed oil. Lotus is made by TNG, a cosmetics company founded in Egypt. The label says “100% Natural” and gives the Latin name, Nigella sativa.

Traditional and cosmetic uses

Black seed appears in old texts from many cultures, including ancient Egypt. Arabic, Unani and Ayurvedic traditional medicine used both the seeds and the oil.

Today black seed is also a cosmetic ingredient. For example, Emami makes a version of its 7 Oils in One hair oil with onion and black seed. On this page we cover cosmetic use on skin and hair only.

What the research says

Most research on black seed has been done in laboratories and on animals. Studies on human skin are few and small.

A 2015 review of black seed in dermatology found early signs of potential. Its authors said proper drug-development studies are still needed before black seed can be used as a skin treatment.

One study tested creams made with black seed cake, the part of the seed left after the oil is pressed out. Compared with a placebo cream, these creams improved skin hydration and reduced irritation.

We found very little research on black seed oil for hair. So use it as a cosmetic oil, not as a treatment for any skin or hair problem.

Safety: what to know first

Natural does not mean risk-free. Doctors have reported allergic skin rashes after people applied products made with black seed oil. One woman had a severe blistering reaction after she both applied and swallowed it.

• Patch test. Put a little on the inside of your elbow for 7 to 10 days before using it on your face.
• Eyes and damaged skin. Keep it away from your eyes. Do not use it on broken or sunburnt skin.
• Children. Ask our pharmacist before using it on a child.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Ask your doctor first.
• By mouth. Only take black seed oil by mouth if the label says it is for food use. Ask a doctor first, especially if you take any medicines. Supplements can interact with medicines, and many have not been tested in pregnancy or in children.

If a rash or itching starts, wash the oil off with soap and water and stop using it.

How to use black seed oil on skin and hair

On skin

1. Do a patch test first.
2. Warm a few drops between your palms.
3. Massage the oil into clean, slightly damp skin, for example after a shower.
4. If you find the smell strong, mix a few drops into your usual body lotion. You can also mix it with a milder oil, such as coconut oil.

On hair

1. Massage a small amount into the scalp or onto dry ends.
2. Leave it on for a while, then wash it out with shampoo.
3. Use a little at a time. Too much oil can make hair look greasy and heavy.

Black seed oil is not a sunscreen. In Sharm’s strong sun, use a sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher.

How to choose and store it

When you buy black seed oil, check the label for:

• the Latin name Nigella sativa;
• an ingredients list with black seed oil only, if you want a pure oil;
• the extraction method, such as cold-pressed, if it is given;
• an expiry date and an unbroken seal;
• whether it is labelled for food use. If it is not, use it on skin and hair only.

Store the bottle closed, in a cool, dark place. Do not leave it in direct sun, on a balcony or in a hot car. If the oil starts to smell sour or different, stop using it.

Need help in Sharm?

Ask us about black seed oil on WhatsApp or call +20 120 344 2201. Our pharmacists speak English, Russian, Ukrainian and Italian, and can read the label with you. See all our Egyptian natural oils, or order with free hotel delivery on orders from $30.