Kalonji Benefits and Side Effects

In case of a cold, kalonji seeds can be consumed by making a decoction with warm water and honey. Taking this decoction twice a day is said to help in killing the bacteria responsible for cough and cold. 

Kalonji is a bronchodilator and it possesses antimicrobial, anti-allergic and analgesic (pain relieving) properties as well. It has been reported to be resistant to harmful bacteria and viruses that attack the body.

Kalonji seeds can be roasted and tied in a muslin bag and smelt repeatedly to relieve cold and catarrh of the nose (buildup of mucus in the nose).

One of the most important components in kalonji is thymoquinone, which has been found to possess some antioxidant properties. Animal studies demonstrate that the antioxidant components of kalonji make it very effective against tissue damage caused by ischemia-reperfusion (return of blood in a tissue after a prolonged absence of oxygen. 

Recent studies have highlighted the role of flavonoids in improving one’s neurological health. Kalonji is a rich source of flavonoids. It is said to be helpful in boosting one's memorizing ability. It is especially helpful for elderly people as memory power tends to weaken with age. It also improves concentration and acts as a cure for many brain-related problems. Several animal and human-based studies suggest that regular consumption of  Nigella seeds can increase the retention power of the brain.

Traditionally, kalonji is known to be a natural painkiller. It can relieve pain quickly without showing any side-effects. Extensive research has been conducted on Kalonji which shows that kalonji has potent analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties which help relieve pain and swelling in the body.

To get rid of a headache, kalonji seed oil can be applied on the forehead. Kalonji oil can also be used to cure joint pains caused by arthritis.

Studies suggest that ingestion of kalonji seeds can lead to a significant decrease in body weight, body mass index, as well as waist and hip circumference. Additionally, kalonji contains an antioxidant enzyme, nigellone, which shows anti-obesity properties.

(Read more: Obesity treatment)

If you are tired of dieting and exercising and are not able to lose weight, then use myUpchar Ayurveda Medarodh Fat Burner Capsule, it has no side effects, order it today and avail the benefits.

Reactive oxygen species (ROS) and oxidative stress are known to be the major causes of liver injury. Thymoquinone, the main component present in kalonji seed essential oil, protects the liver from injury.

Kalonji also protects the liver from common microbial infections. Consuming kalonji with a spoon of honey helps strengthen vital organs and the bones.

Traditionally, kalonji is considered very useful for maintaining clear and glowing skin. Kalonji essential oil contains many useful chemical constituents such as thymoquinone, thymol, nigellicine, carvacrol, and alpha-hederin. These compounds impart antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties to Nigella seeds. Nigella seeds are thus beneficial against several skin problems like acne, scars, blemishes, pimples, etc. Adding kalonji oil to face packs or mixing it with lime juice makes the face feel fresh and relaxed. 

Kalonji is considered to be a “miracle” herb due to its effective therapeutic potential to alleviate signs and symptoms of many diseases including cancer. Studies have shown protective effects of Nigella seeds against tumour initiation and progression. It has also been found to have potent anti-metastatic (stops spread of cancer cells), anti-mutagenic (reduces cancer risk) and antiproliferative (inhibit cancer growth) properties that help to fight cancer.

A heart attack occurs when blood flow to a section of the heart muscle gets blocked. The main cause of this is the increased triglyceride (a type of fat) levels in the body. These fatty particles travel through the blood and can stick to the arterial walls causing obstructions and resulting in various cardiovascular problems. Kalonji seeds are said to be very good for the heart as it helps in controlling cholesterol levels in the body. Thus protecting it from various kinds of problems like heart attacks and blocked arteries. 

To get best results, kalonji oil can be had with milk every day. 

(Read more: Atherosclerosis treatment)

Kalonji aids in improving overall health by regulating the functioning of the heart, liver, and lungs. It is also useful in treating asthma. Kalonji oil is effective against hay fever and other kinds of allergies. 

Honey and kalonji form a very good combination in treating several diseases like – gastric Helicobacter pylori infection, cough and cold, constipation, absent-mindedness and lung problems. It can also be mixed with goat’s milk to improve heart functioning.