One of the fertility benefits of black cumin seeds is shown in its libido-boosting property, there is more to that, including its sexual benefits you shall uncover as you dig deeper.
Black cumin is scientifically called Bunium Persicum, Nigella Sativa from a plant family known as Ranunculaceae.
Black Cumin Seeds Benefits
Black cumin seeds are a potential herbal remedy that has been proven effective and helpful in treating several health conditions [1]. such as headaches, back pain, high blood pressure, infections, inflammation, and many others discussed in this post.
It may equally interest you to know that despite these fertility benefits of black cumin seeds, it may be detrimental to pregnancy if an overdose is taken by pregnant women.
The fertility benefits of black cumin seeds as well as their harmful effects on pregnancy form the basis of this post. Let us consider the chemical composition of this plant in other to appreciate why it is good for fertility and harmful for pregnancy.
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Seeds, Fruits, Roots, and Seed Oil are all useful and have therapeutic properties which makes them important ingredients in modern and Ayurvedic medicine. The nutritional value [ 2, 3 ] of black cumin seeds is detailed here
Black Cumin Seed Nutrition Facts
- Protein — 20.85%
- Fat — 38.20%
- Moisture — 4.64%
- Ash — 4.37%
- Crude Fibre — 7.94%
- Carbohydrates — 31.94%
Major Minerals
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Sodium
- Iron
Minor Minerals
- Zinc
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Manganese
- Copper
Major Unsaturated Fatty Acids
- Linoleic fatty acids
- Oleic fatty acids
Major Saturated Fatty Acids
- Palmitic Acid
Major Amino Acids
- Glutamic Acid
- Arginine
- Aspartic acid
Minor amino acids
- Cystine
- Methionine
Fertility benefits of black cumin seeds
Considering the nutritional value of black cumin seed, you will discover that it contains several fertility-boosting nutrients are detailed below.
1. Boost Testosterone Levels In Male
As fertility boosting plant black cumin seeds are packed with complex proteins compound such as Aspartic acid which has been confirmed to increase testosterone levels in males.
A 28 days fertility study on overweight and obese inactive men indicated that Aspartic acid that was fed to them as a supplement was able to increase their testosterone level even more than 20 %.
Another 12 days study on active men of different age ranges late 20s and later 30s, also revealed about 95% of the total of them given aspartic acid as a supplement recorded an average of 42% increase in testosterone levels.
Black cumin seeds are high in amino acids such as aspartic acid which can increase testosterone levels in males.
2. May Increase Chances Of Conception
Glutamic Acid is one of the major amino acids found in black cumin seeds which may help in preimplantation embryo development.
According to a randomized, controlled, study of 138 normally fertilized and non-transferred human embryos, it shows that Glutamic Acid (Glutamine) is helpful for human preimplantation embryo development in vitro, boosting the promo of embryos that develop to the morula and blastocyst stages. [ 4, 5 ].
In vitro test shows that Glutamine an amino acid found in black cumin seed may boost preimplantation embryo development.
3. Boost Libido In Male
Black cumin seed is enriched with numerous complex amino acids such as Arginine that have a libido-boosting property [6].
Libido is the energy of the sexual drive an important part of our sex life, when this energy is insufficient it may result in a lot of problems.
Black seeds are also fortified with other minerals like zinc needed for healthy sperm.
Another related study also suggests that Arginine may help in treating Hypoactive Sexual Desire Disorder HSDD in Women.
Arginine an important compound that can boost libido (sex drive) is found in black cumin seed.
Libido is the energy for sexual desire without which our sex life may be affected.
Black Cumin Seeds For Pregnancy
Now let’s consider black cumin seeds’ side effects on pregnancy or the disadvantages of consuming black cumin seeds during pregnancy.
May Prevent Uterus Contraction: A test-tube study reveals that an overdose is likely unsafe during pregnancy, and may influence blood clotting, and even prevent uterus contraction, hence consumption should be regulated.
May Trigger Miscarriage: according to speculation, an overdose of Black cumin seeds should be avoided during early pregnancy due to its Abortifacient property which may cause Abortion. However, solid evidence is needed to affirm this.
Black Cumin Seeds Side Effects
May cause allergic rashes: A study suggests that the use of black cumin seeds oil may cause allergic rashes in some people when used for a long time.[7, 8]. A more decisive study is needed to affirm this.
Additionally, other side effects of black cumin seed include stomach upset, constipation, or vomiting.
Evidence that affirms the harmful effects of black cumin seeds on pregnancy is not solid, however, it is better safe than sorry by avoiding an overdose or usage over a month if you are pregnant.
Consult medical experts if you notice any of the named side effects.
JC is passionate about finding the impact of foods (feeding habits) on human fertility and reproductive health and a way to improve fertility.
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