Today, we're taking a closer look at black seed oil. Most of us are familiar with black seed as a culinary addition (in the form of seeds) to bread, cheeses, or meats. Others are impressed by its health properties when used as a dietary supplement in the form of oil. In Krayna, we've incorporated it as an ingredient in our cosmetics.
So, what should we know about it? This plant, naturally occurring, is found in Southern Europe, North Africa, and Southeast Asia. It has long been used in traditional Indian and Arab medicine. Its seeds have a slightly sharp, spicy taste and are used to extract oil.
Black seed in Krayna cosmetics, why? When designing and formulating our cosmetic compositions, we turned to black seed oil because of its rich nutritional properties. The seeds are abundant in biologically active substances—those that are produced in the plant's metabolic processes to help it survive and protect against external factors. For the more advanced, these include thymoquinone, alkaloids, saponins, flavonoids, and amino acids.
How does it work on the skin? It has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties on one hand and moisturizing and strongly regenerative properties on the other. Additionally, it soothes acne symptoms, which is why black seed oil is found in creams like AY 2 [link to AY 2 Water Pepper] and AY 3 [link to AY 3 Chestnut], recommended for individuals with particularly demanding skin (acne, atopic dermatitis, sensitive skin). The creams differ in consistency. AY 2 is a lightweight balm for special tasks, especially suitable for oily and problematic skin. On the other hand, AY 3 is a heavier, more moisturizing formula for skin with atopic dermatitis or visible blood vessels, among other characteristics. Despite AY 2 and AY 3 having different purposes, due to the broad range of applications of black seed oil, we decided to add this rich ingredient to both creams. In the company of other ingredients, they create two unique compositions, and everyone will find something for themselves.