Kalonji, also known as black seed, black cumin, or Nigella sativa, is a small black seed that has been used in home made medicines and ayurvedic for its health benefits. From boosting immunity to weight loss, it has a lot of benefits. In this blog, we are going to explore the benefits, side effects, and uses of Kaloji in your daily life. So, let’s begin with the blog and learn about this powerful medicine.
What Is Kalonji?
It is a plant which is quite popular in Ayurveda for its large number of benefits. It is an annually growing plant that is found in South and Southwest Asia. Many people only use it as a medicine in Indian households, but they don’t know that it is more than that. It has been used for thousands of years and has also been mentioned in ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Indian medical texts. Many historical references have also been uncovered related to Kalonji like the discovery of Kalonji in the tomb of Tutankhamun.
Nutritional Values of Kalonji
Here is a detailed breakdown of the nutritional value present in 100g of Kalonji:
| Nutrient | Value per 100 g |
|---|---|
| Water | 8.06 g |
| Energy | 375 kcal |
| Protein | 17.81 g |
| Fat | 22.27 g |
| Carbohydrate | 44.24 g |
| Fiber | 10.5 g |
| Sugar | 2.25 g |
| Minerals | |
| Calcium | 931 mg |
| Iron | 66.36 mg |
| Magnesium | 366 mg |
| Phosphorus | 499 mg |
| Potassium | 1788 mg |
| Sodium | 168 mg |
| Zinc | 4.80 mg |
| Vitamin | |
| Vitamin A | 64 µg |
| Vitamin B-6 | 0.435 mg |
| Vitamin C | 7.7 mg |
| Vitamin E | 3.33 mg |
| Vitamin K | 5.4 µg |
| Fats/Fatty acids | |
| Saturated | 1.535 g |
| Monounsaturated | 14.040 g |
| Polyunsaturated | 3.279 g |
Benefits Of Kalonji
As it is packed with a lot of nutrients, nigella seed has a lot of health benefits to its consumers. So, here is a list of benefits which you can get from its consumption:
- Prevent Cell Damage
The first benefit that we get from it is that it is filled with antioxidants. These antioxidants help in neutralizing harmful free radicals and also protect the cells in the body from oxidative damage. Various studies also claim that these antioxidants cause several types of chronic conditions, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. The essential oil present in it also works as an antioxidant.
- Lowering Cholesterol
Having high cholesterol in your body can be a major reason for various heart related problems like heart attack and more. But, consumption of it has proven to be helpful to get Cholesterol in control. If you are thinking of consuming it for cholesterol then the oil is proven to be more efficient in the place of seeds.
- Properties of Fighting Cancer
Cancer, which is said to be one of the very few incurable diseases, has been tested many times with Kalonji. In various test tube experiments, it has been shown to be really beneficial in fighting against it. It is said to contain various potential anti-cancer effects. Various studies and experiments have also given some really great results of Kalonji against breast cancer cells.
- Weight Loss
The antioxidants present in it helps in reducing weight gradually over time and waist circumferences as it works as an antioxidant.
- Acts As A Natural Painkiller
Another very major benefit from its consumption is that it works as a natural painkiller. The seeds contain analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties which helps it in working as a natural painkiller.
- Better Digestion
The high fiber content in kalonji seeds helps in better digestion and helps relieve issues like bloating, gas, and constipation.
- Regulation Of Blood Sugar Levels
Kalonji is beneficial for diabetics as it helps regulate blood sugar levels. Various studies have also shown how with the help of Kalonji, patients can easily control their blood sugar level.
Potential Side Effects Of Kalonji
Just like every other remedy, Kaloji also has its own set of side effects along with benefits. So, here is a list of potential side effects from the consumption of Kalonji:
- Access Lowering Of Sugar Levels
Yes, we have already said that kalonji helps in regulating and lowering the blood sugar levels, but sometimes it can lower the blood sugar level so much that it can be dangerous for your health.
- Can Cause Low Blood Pressure
If you are a patient who suffers from the problem of low blood pressure then you should be cautious when consuming Kaloji as it can further reduce your blood pressure level which can lead to dizziness and fainting.
- Caution If Pregnant or Breastfeeding
Pregnant women should avoid excessive consumption of kalonji, as it may cause uterine contractions which would later become the reason for miscarriage. Also if you are a nursing mother then you should be cautious with its consumption.
- Allergic To Kalonji
Another potential side effect to its consumption is various allergic reactions after its consumption. Some of the allergic reactions include skin rashes, itching, and difficulty breathing.
Adding Kalonji to Daily Diet
If you want to consumer Kalonji properly to get health benefit from it then her are some proper ways of its consumption. This can also help you in adding it to your daily diet:
- Eating Raw Seeds
The most simple way to consume Kaloji is that you can chew a few kalonji seeds daily on an empty stomach with warm water. It can help in boosting your immunity and digestion.
- Mix It With Honey or Water
If you want to lose weight or want to have better digestion then you can try mixing Kalonji with warm water or honey. You can mix around one teaspoon of Kalonji.
- Mix With Food Items
Another really good way of consuming Kalonji is that you can mix it with food items when cooking. You can mix it with curries, breads, pickles, and salads. This can have both nutritional value and also enhance the taste of your food.
- Drink Kalonji Tea
You can also boil Kalonji seeds in water and make a tea out of it and drink it. This is a very basic and easy detoxification drink which you can consume everyday.
- Using Kalonji Oil
If you have issues with consuming Kalonji then you can apply the oil on skin. This can help in the growth of hair and keeps your skin healthy.
(Disclaimer: The Blog shared above is just for informational and Knowledge purpose only. Moreover, the article should not be considered as a Medical Advice. One can connect with a medical expert before following the above advices and tips. )
FAQs
Ans. Yes, Kalonji seeds contain antioxidants that aid in weight loss and reducing waist circumference.
Ans. Pregnant women should avoid excessive consumption as it may cause uterine contractions.
Ans. You can consume it raw, mix it with honey or water, add it to food, or drink it as tea.
Ans. Over Consumption may lead to low blood sugar, low blood pressure, or allergic reactions.
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