Black seed oil has been used for many years for medicinal and cosmetic purposes. The oil has antioxidant compounds which prevent cell damage from oxidative stress. It is anti-inflammatory and can help treat allergic reactions and other inflammatory conditions. Studies have shown that taking black seed oil can boost sperm count and help protect sperm from damage. Infertility in men is largely attributed to several underlying conditions which can have a negative effect on their reproductive health. Here are some of the risk factors which can be significantly reduced by using black seed oil.
High Blood Pressure
Studies have shown that there is a great link between hypertension and the quality of semen. Antihypertensive medications have also been shown to impair semen production leading to reduced fertility in men. Regular consumption of black seed oil can lower blood pressure in people who suffer from high blood pressure. Is also reduces the levels of bad low density lipoprotein which can cause high blood pressure.
Diabetes
Men with diabetes are at a higher risk of having low testosterone levels. This can lead to problems of reduced fertility such as low sperm count, erectile dysfunction and reduced sex drive. Diabetes is also linked to ejaculation problems and inflammation of the foreskin. Taking black seed oil has been shown to help reduce diabetic symptoms such as high blood sugar levels and insulin resistance. It is therefore a great alternative strategy for controlling blood sugar levels particularly for people with type-2 diabetes. The oil also improves sensitivity of muscles to insulin and activates energy balance pathways.
Inflammation
Proper production of sperms is essential for male fertility. This spermatogenesis process involves various factors including pro-inflammatory cytokines which have certain physiological functions. However, excessive amounts of these inflammatory cytokines may negatively impact sperm production. Studies on male fertility indicate that acute or chronic inflammation of the genitourinary tract can cause infertility. Black seed oil contains potent but non-toxic compounds that suppress excessive inflammatory molecules while at the same time stimulating the normal, acute inflammation we need to fight infections and kill cancers. Studies have emerged showing that black seed oil critically rebalances the body's inflammatory factors.
Anxiety
Studies have shown that men who suffer from both short-term and long-term anxiety or stress ejaculated less semen and have reduced sperm counts. High anxiety levels also increases the probability of having deformed or less active sperms. Taking black seed oil has been shown to reduce anxiety and improve general mood as well as cognition. It is a great remedy for anxiety as it increases the levels of serotonin in the brain. It can also reduce fatigue while increasing thyroid function.
Antioxidant Defense
Oxidative stress is known to cause infertility in men as it impairs sperm function. It is particularly harmful in sperm production as it damages sperm DNA and causes apoptosis in sperm. Studies show that black seed oil acts on antioxidant pathways increasing antioxidant enzymes in the liver such as glutathione. It also protects various body tissues from oxidative stress as well as lowering homocysteine, a high risk factor for heart disease.