Black seed oil is a natural oil extracted from the seeds of *Nigella sativa*, also known as black cumin. The oil has long been used in various traditional cultures and is currently popular in the world of natural nutrition and personal care.
But what exactly is black seed oil? What does TQ mean, and what is the difference between the oil and capsules? In this article, we explain it simply.

What is black seed oil?
Black seed oil is pressed from the small, black seeds of the *Nigella sativa* plant. The plant is native to regions including the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Asia.
The oil has a distinctive, herbal taste and aroma. Precisely because of this strong flavor, some people choose to use black seed oil in capsule form.
At Mediqalshop, you will find various types of black seed oil and black seed-based products, allowing you to choose the form that suits your preference.
What does *Nigella sativa* mean?
*Nigella sativa* is the botanical name of the plant from which black seed oil is extracted.
You may encounter various names for the same seed and its oil, such as:
Black seed
Black cumin
*Nigella sativa*
Although the names differ, they all refer to the same plant: *Nigella sativa*.

What does TQ mean in relation to black seed oil?
You will frequently come across the abbreviation TQ when looking at black seed oil. TQ stands for thymoquinone, a naturally occurring component of black cumin seeds.
Some products state the TQ percentage; for example, there are black seed oils with a specified content of 2.5% or 3% TQ.
A higher TQ percentage does not automatically mean that a product is better suited for everyone. It is particularly important to look at the full product specifications, the ingredients, and the method of production.

Black seed oil or capsules?
Black seed oil is available as a liquid oil as well as in capsules.
Liquid oil is a good choice if you want to easily measure your dosage or incorporate the oil into your daily routine. However, it does have a rather strong taste.
Capsules offer a practical alternative for those who find the taste of black seed oil unpleasant; you simply take the capsule with water.
The choice between oil and capsules therefore often comes down to personal preference.

What should you look for when buying black seed oil?
Not all black seed oils are the same. When comparing different products, there are several features to consider.
For instance, check for the botanical name *Nigella sativa*, the raw material used, the production method, and the list of ingredients.
The TQ content may also be listed, provided this information is available and substantiated for the specific product.
It is also wise to look at the product's origin, packaging, and the manufacturer's storage instructions.
Different varieties of black seed oil
At Mediqalshop, you will find a range of black seed products.
We offer liquid black seed oil, including a variety with a stated TQ content of 2.5% and an Egyptian black seed oil with a stated TQ content of 3%.
We also stock black seed oil capsules and various combination products, such as black seed with glucosamine or turmeric.
This allows you to compare different products and choose the form that best suits your personal preference.

How do you use black seed oil?
The method of use varies depending on the specific black seed oil product. Therefore, always follow the instructions on the product packaging.
Liquid black seed oil is usually consumed in small quantities. Capsules are taken with water according to the instructions on the packaging.
Are you using black seed oil for the first time? Start slowly and follow the recommended dosage.
Frequently asked questions about black seed oil

Is black seed oil the same as black cumin oil?
Yes. Black seed oil is also commonly referred to as black cumin oil. The oil is extracted from the seeds of *Nigella sativa*.

What is *Nigella sativa*?
*Nigella sativa* is the botanical name of the plant used to produce black seed oil.

What does 2.5% TQ mean?
TQ stands for thymoquinone, a naturally occurring compound in black cumin seeds. A specification of 2.5% TQ refers to the thymoquinone content in the product.

Is oil better than capsules?
That depends largely on personal preference. Liquid oil has a distinct taste, whereas capsules are easy to take without the taste of the oil.

How should black seed oil be stored?
Always follow the storage instructions on the product label. In general, it is advisable to keep the oil tightly sealed, away from direct sunlight, and stored according to the specified conditions.

Discover our black seed products
Curious which variant suits you best? Browse Mediqalshop’s range of black seed oil, capsules, and combination products, and compare the various options and specifications.
At Mediqalshop, we believe it is important to provide clear product information so that you can make a well-informed choice.