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Is black seed oil safe during pregnancy?

The Safety of Black Seed Oil During Pregnancy
As the popularity of natural remedies continues to rise, many expectant mothers are turning to herbal supplements like black seed oil, known for its purported health benefits. However, the question of whether black seed oil is safe during pregnancy remains a contentious topic among health professionals and researchers.
Current Understanding and Precautions
Black seed oil, derived from the seeds of the Nigella sativa plant, is celebrated for its immune-boosting properties and potential therapeutic effects. However, its use during pregnancy is met with caution. According to recent discussions, there is no definitive consensus on the safety of black seed oil for pregnant women. Some sources suggest that while it may be safe in small amounts, particularly when used as a food ingredient, larger doses could pose risks.
Experts warn that black seed oil can influence the immune system, which is particularly concerning for pregnant women. A strong immune response could potentially lead to complications, especially in those with transplanted organs or other underlying health issues. Additionally, there are indications that high doses of black seed oil might interfere with uterine contractions, which could be problematic during pregnancy.
Potential Risks and Recommendations
While some anecdotal evidence suggests that black seed oil may help with fertility and overall health, its effects on pregnancy are less clear. Pregnant women are advised to avoid consuming black seed oil in significant quantities. Instead, topical application is often recommended as a safer alternative, allowing for the benefits of the oil without the risks associated with ingestion.
Moreover, pregnant women with conditions such as diabetes should exercise caution, as black seed oil can affect blood sugar levels. The lack of extensive research on the long-term effects of black seed oil during pregnancy adds to the uncertainty, making it crucial for expectant mothers to consult healthcare providers before incorporating it into their routines.
Conclusion
In summary, while black seed oil may offer health benefits, its safety during pregnancy is not guaranteed. The prevailing advice is to avoid high doses and to consider topical use instead. As always, pregnant women should prioritize discussions with their healthcare professionals to ensure the safety of any supplements they consider during this critical time.

What does black seed oil do to the female body?

Taking black seed oil as a supplement may help manage obesity and metabolic disorders. Recent studies suggest that its use as a supplement may reduce body weight and BMI, but more research is needed.

Why do I feel bad after taking black seed oil?

Black seed can cause allergic rashes in some people. It can also cause stomach upset, vomiting, or constipation. When applied to the skin: Black seed oil or gel is possibly safe when used short-term. It can cause allergic rashes in some people.

Who should avoid black seed oil?

Avoid black seed oil if you take blood thinners or have a history of bleeding, hypoglycemia, hypotension, or advanced kidney or liver disease. Pregnant women should avoid products from the seeds of the Nigella sativa plant.

Which seeds to avoid when trying to conceive?

Other than these food items you have to avoid the intake of fennel or fenugreek seeds because it can affect a baby’s development in a negative way. Not only this, but fenugreek seeds also contain phytoestrogens which probably induce uterus wall contraction.

What happens to your body when you start taking black seed oil?

  • Black seed oil is rich in antioxidants
  • It may help in treating asthma
  • It may aid in weight loss
  • It may help to lower blood pressure and cholesterol level.
  • It may protect brain health
  • It may be good for your skin and hair
  • It has anti-cancer effects
  • It may help to treat male infertility.

Why do I feel weird after taking black seed oil?

Black seed might increase a brain chemical called serotonin. Some medications also have this effect. Taking black seed along with these medications might increase serotonin too much. This might cause serious side effects including heart problems, seizures, and vomiting.

What does black seed oil do for pregnancy?

Pregnancy: Black seed is commonly consumed in foods. But taking amounts greater than those found in foods while pregnant is likely unsafe. Black seed can slow down or stop the uterus from contracting. Breast-feeding: There isn’t enough reliable information to know if black seed is safe to use when breast-feeding.

Is black seed good for female fertility?

Black seed have an active effect on reproductive functions and infertility treatment demonstrated significant improvements in respective factors, including sperms, semen, leydig cells count, follicular development, corpus luteum and gonadotropic hormones like testosterone and progesterone (Darand et al., 2020).

Does black seed oil cause hair growth?

While a few small-scale studies have found that black seed oil may promote hair growth and address issues like eczema, psoriasis, and dandruff, the research is still relatively sparse. Below, we’ve explained what black seed oil is and how it may help to treat hair loss.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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