Black seed oil is extracted from Nigella Sativa, a small flowering plant that is native to Southwest Asia and the middle east. The seeds are commonly referred to as black seeds; other names include black cumin, black caraway, nigella, fennel flower and roman coriander. Black seed oil has been used as a traditional remedy for thousands of years due to its many therapeutic benefits. Historically, black seed oil was used to treat a variety of conditions such as asthma, diabetes and aiding weight loss. It is for this reason that sometimes it is referred to as a universal healer. The oil can also be applied externally on to benefit the skin and hair. This article will look into the potential health benefits of black seed oil for men.

Male infertility may be brought about by low sperm production, abnormal sperm function or blockages that may prevent the delivery of sperms. It may also result from chronic illnesses, injuries and lifestyle choices. Studies on infertile men have shown that regular consumption of black seed oil can increase sperm count and help sperm swim faster. This is attributed to the high amount of antioxidants in the oil which protects sperm from damage.

Infertility in men may also result from combination of factors and conditions which may prevent conception. Fortunately, black seed oil is a safe and effective way to significantly improve the chances of conception. The following are some of the conditions linked to male infertility which can be controlled by using black seed oil.

May help in weight loss.

Obese or overweight men have been shown to have lower quality sperm than men who have healthy weight. Being overweight can also cause hormonal changes that can make men less interested in sex. Studies have shown that black seed oil may help reduce body mass index in men with obesity, metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes. Taking the oil also improves the levels of triglycerides and bad low-density lipoprotein cholesterol.

May lower blood glucose levels

A high percentage of men with diabetes have low testosterone levels. This can negatively impact fertility by reducing sperm count, causing erectile dysfunction and reducing sex drive. Several studies in men with increased blood sugar levels indicate that taking black seed oil can significantly reduce fasting blood sugar levels.

Helps reduce blood pressure.

Existing data points to an association between high blood pressure and poor semen quality. Men suffering from high blood pressure have lower semen volume, sperm motility and total sperm count. Black seed oil has also been studied for its potential effectiveness in reducing blood pressure and cholesterol levels. High blood pressure and high low density lipoprotein(bad) cholesterol levels are important risk factors for heart disease. The oil may also help lower blood pressure.

Prevents oxidative stress

Oxidative stress is the imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body which can lead to cell and tissue damage. High levels of oxidative stress can negatively impact fertility in men. It can damage sperm DNA, RNA transcripts and telomeres and therefore provide a common underlying cause of male infertility. Black seed oil is rich in antioxidants, plant compounds that help protect against oxidative stress. The oil is particularly rich in thymoquinones which has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.