Kalonji, also known as Nigella sativa, black seed, black cumin, black caraway, or Roman coriander, is a flowering plant native to Asia and the Mediterranean. Growing to a height of 20 to 30 cm, it features finely divided, linear leaves and delicate pale blue and white flowers. The seeds of this plant have been used for thousands of years in traditional medicine and as a flavoring agent in various cuisines. This article explores the potential benefits of kalonji for weight loss, its other health advantages, and safety considerations.
What is Kalonji?
Kalonji (Nigella sativa) is an annual flowering plant that can grow 8-35 inches (20-90 cm) tall. Its fruits contain numerous black seeds traditionally used in Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern countries to treat diseases and conditions like diabetes, pain, and digestive tract problems. The seeds, often referred to as black cumin or onion seed, come from Nigella sativa, which is native to Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
Nutritional Composition and Bioactive Compounds
Kalonji seeds and oil contain active compounds called phytochemicals, including phytosterols. These compounds are responsible for many of the herb's therapeutic properties.
Historical and Traditional Uses
Black seed has been used to make medicine for thousands of years. Historically, the seeds have been used in ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Indian cultures for both medicinal and culinary purposes. The Prophet Muhammad believed the seeds to be a remedy for all diseases except death.
Potential Benefits for Weight Loss
Recent studies suggest that kalonji may aid in weight loss. A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled weight loss trials found that about a quarter teaspoon of black cumin powder every day appears to cause weight loss within a span of a few months. A study found that women consumed Nigella sativa oil or a placebo while following a low-calorie diet for eight weeks.
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Other Health Benefits of Kalonji
Beyond weight loss, kalonji offers a range of health benefits:
1. Improves Cholesterol, Triglycerides, Blood Pressure, and Blood Sugar Control
Systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomized controlled trials have found that daily black cumin consumption significantly improves cholesterol, triglycerides, blood pressure, and blood sugar control.
2. Lowers Cholesterol Levels
One study found that postmenopausal women randomized to a gram a day (less than a quarter teaspoon) of black cumin powder reduced their LDL cholesterol by 27 percent within two months, significantly better than placebo.
3. Reduces Allergy Symptoms
Taking black seed oil by mouth daily might improve allergy symptoms in people with hay fever. Black seed oil shows promise for treating allergies.
4. Improves Asthma Symptoms
Taking black seed by mouth along with asthma medicines can improve coughing, wheezing, and lung function in some people with asthma. But it seems to work only in people with very low lung function before treatment.
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5. Helps with COPD
Taking black seed oil by mouth helps to improve lung function in people with COPD who are also using prescribed inhalers.
6. Manages Diabetes
Taking black seed powder or black seed oil by mouth daily seems to improve blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. Researchers reviewed four randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trials with people who had taken black seed as oil, tea, or seeds. Participants had a decrease in their fasting blood glucose.
7. Treats H. Pylori Infection
Taking black seed powder along with standard therapies might help to get rid of a digestive tract infection that can lead to ulcers (Helicobacter pylori or H. pylori).
8. Lowers High Blood Pressure
Taking black seed powder or black seed oil by mouth might reduce blood pressure by a small amount in healthy adults.
9. Improves Lipid Profile
Taking black seed supplements by mouth can slightly lower total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL or "bad") cholesterol, and triglycerides, and increase high-density lipoprotein (HDL or "good") cholesterol in people with or without hyperlipidemia. Black seed oil may help lower lipid count in people with hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol and high triglycerides). Other studies have shown that black seed oil may be beneficial in helping to lower high blood pressure.
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10. Reduces Breast Pain
Applying a gel containing black seed oil to the breasts during the menstrual cycle seems to reduce pain.
11. Improves Acne
Applying a gel containing black seed extract to the skin might help to improve acne.
12. Provides Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects
Black seed oil has anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and anti-apoptotic (preventing cell death) properties. A 2016 comprehensive review of scientific reports concluded that Nigella sativa has many anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, and wound-healing effects, among other therapeutic properties.
13. Benefits for Thyroid Health
Data supports the potent benefit of using powdered Nigella sativa to improve Hashimoto's thyroiditis.
14. Helps with Metabolic Syndrome
Metabolic syndrome (a group of five conditions that can lead to heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and other issues) responds well to treatment with black seed oil.
15. Other Potential Benefits
Black seed oil has been studied in human, lab, and animal studies for headache and digestive disorders, in addition to the above conditions.
16. Strengthens Immune System
Black seed’s antioxidant properties help strengthen the immune system, making it more effective in combating infections, viruses, and diseases.
17. Relieves Digestive Issues
Black seed has been traditionally used to relieve indigestion, bloating, and gas.
18. Promotes Cardiovascular Health
The essential fatty acids in black seed help regulate cholesterol levels, lower blood pressure, and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
19. Enhances Skin and Hair Health
Rich in antioxidants and fatty acids, black seed promotes glowing skin and strong, healthy hair. Its anti-inflammatory properties can help with conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
20. Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
Research suggests that black seed may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
21. Supports Respiratory Health
Traditionally, black seed has been used to treat asthma, bronchitis, and other respiratory ailments.
22. Exhibits Antimicrobial Properties
Black seed exhibits antimicrobial properties that combat bacteria, viruses, and fungi.
Forms and Dosage
Black seed is available in various forms, including seeds, oil, powder, and capsules. Black cumin is used in Indian and Middle Eastern cuisines just like any other regular spice and has a peppery flavor. Black seed oil doses typically range from 1 to 5 grams by mouth per day for four to 12 weeks. Black seed oil has most often been used by adults in doses of 1-2.5 grams by mouth daily for 4-12 weeks. Black seed powder has most often been used in doses of 1-2 grams by mouth daily for 8-12 weeks. Typical doses used in studies are just one or two grams a day, which is only about a quarter teaspoon. It is best to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the most appropriate dose for a specific condition.
Safety and Side Effects
While black seed is generally safe for most people, it is important to be aware of potential side effects and precautions:
General Safety
Black seed is commonly consumed in foods and is generally considered safe. Black seed oil and black seed powder are possibly safe when taken in larger amounts for up to 3 months. However, there isn't enough reliable information to know if larger amounts are safe when used for more than 3 months.
Allergic Reactions
Black seed can cause allergic rashes in some people.
Gastrointestinal Issues
It can also cause stomach upset, vomiting, or constipation.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Though it is safe to add kalonji to food during pregnancy, taking amounts greater than those found in foods while pregnant is likely unsafe. Black seed can slow down or stop the uterus from contracting. There isn't enough reliable information to know if black seed is safe to use when breast-feeding. It is best to stay on the safe side and avoid use.
Children
Black seed oil is possibly safe for children when taken by mouth short-term and in recommended amounts by weight.
Bleeding Disorders
Black seed might slow blood clotting and increase the risk of bleeding. Black seed might make bleeding disorders worse.
Surgery
Black seed might slow blood clotting, reduce blood sugar, and increase sleepiness in some people. This can interfere with drugs used during and after surgical procedures and cause severe side effects. It is recommended to stop using black seed at least two weeks before a scheduled surgery.
Potential Interactions with Medications
Black seed can interact with several medications, so it is important to consult with a healthcare provider before use:
- Diabetes Medications: Black seed might lower blood sugar levels. Taking black seed along with diabetes medications might cause blood sugar to drop too low. Monitor your blood sugar closely.
- Immunosuppressants: Black seed can increase the activity of the immune system. Taking black seed along with these medications might decrease the effects of these medications.
- Anticoagulants: Black seed might slow blood clotting. Taking black seed along with medications that also slow blood clotting might increase the risk of bruising and bleeding.
- Antihypertensives: Black seed might lower blood pressure. Taking black seed along with medications that lower blood pressure might cause blood pressure to go too low. Monitor your blood pressure closely.
- Sedatives: Black seed might cause sleepiness and slowed breathing. Taking black seed with sedative medications might cause breathing problems and/or too much sleepiness.
- Cyclosporine: Black seed might decrease levels of cyclosporine in the blood. This might reduce how well cyclosporine is able to work.
- Diuretics: Black seed can decrease potassium levels. Taking black seed along with "water pills" might make potassium levels drop too low.
- Amlodipine: Amlodipine lowers blood pressure. Taking black seed with amlodipine might lower blood pressure too much. People taking black seed along with amlodipine should monitor their blood pressure.
- Serotonergic Medications: Black seed might increase a brain chemical called serotonin. Taking black seed along with these medications might increase serotonin too much, potentially causing serious side effects including heart problems, seizures, and vomiting.
- Clopidogrel: Clopidogrel can slow blood clotting. Taking black seed along with clopidogrel might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.
- Medications Changed by the Liver: Black seed might change how quickly the liver breaks down these medications, which could change their effects and side effects.
- Phenytoin: Taking black seed with phenytoin might reduce the effects or increase the risk of having side effects to phenytoin.
- Warfarin: Taking black seed with warfarin might increase the effects of warfarin, which could increase the risk of bleeding.
- Sildenafil: Taking black seed with sildenafil might reduce the effects of sildenafil.
- Prednisolone: Black seed might decrease levels of prednisolone in the blood, potentially reducing its effects.
- OTC Serotonergics: 5-HTP, L-tryptophan, SAMe, and St.
The Role of Fenugreek Seeds
Fenugreek seeds, derived from the herb Trigonella foenum-graecum, have been used for centuries in culinary dishes, traditional medicine, and wellness practices. Known for their distinctive aroma and slightly bitter taste, these golden-brown seeds are a staple in many cuisines, especially in Indian, Middle Eastern, and Mediterranean cooking.
Origin and History
Fenugreek is native to Southern Europe, the Mediterranean region, and Western Asia. Historically, the seeds have been used in ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Indian cultures for both medicinal and culinary purposes.
Nutritional Composition
Fenugreek seeds are rich in essential nutrients, making them a valuable addition to any diet.
Health Benefits of Fenugreek Seeds
- Manages Blood Sugar Levels: Fenugreek seeds are well-known for their ability to manage blood sugar levels. They contain soluble fiber that slows down carbohydrate absorption, helping to prevent spikes in blood sugar.
- Promotes Digestive Health: Rich in fiber, fenugreek seeds promote healthy digestion by preventing constipation and supporting gut health.
- Reduces Cholesterol Levels: Fenugreek seeds may help reduce cholesterol levels, particularly LDL (bad cholesterol), which lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
- Boosts Milk Production: Fenugreek seeds are a traditional galactagogue, helping to boost milk production in breastfeeding mothers.
- Aids in Weight Management: The high fiber content in fenugreek seeds can promote satiety, reducing overeating and aiding in weight management.
- Enhances Skin Health: Fenugreek seeds are often used in natural beauty remedies. Their antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties help combat acne, reduce signs of aging, and soothe skin irritation.
Safety and Side Effects of Fenugreek Seeds
While fenugreek seeds are generally safe, excessive consumption may lead to side effects such as gastrointestinal discomfort or mild allergic reactions.
Combining Black Seed and Fenugreek
Both black seed and fenugreek seeds are rich in proteins, vitamins, and other essential nutrients. Together, they can help strengthen hair roots and reconstruct the follicles. Black seed has also been shown to improve liver function and have beneficial effects on metabolic function and fatty liver.
Potential Side Effects of Combining Black Seed and Fenugreek
- Allergic rashes
- Stomach upset, vomiting, or constipation
- Risk of seizures in some people
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