It’s suggested that the active components in kalonji seeds boost weight loss by affecting the expression of specific genes related to appetite control and fat loss ( 3, 4, 5). Bamosa A O, et al. (2010). Effect of Nigella sativa seeds on the glycemic control of patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Thus, while kalonji is likely ineffective for weight loss on its own, it may aid weight loss when combined with a low calorie diet. Many of the benefits of kalonji come from its oil. This oil is rich in thymoquinone, a compound that has strong antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer properties. The seed is very healthy, but it can be burnt easily, so be sure to use a good quality cooking oil when you prepare kalonji. It also has beneficial effects on digestion, which makes it great for those with digestive problems. Oral Health Benefits Oxidative stress can lead to low or abnormal sperm production. It can result in infertility in males. Evidence suggests that herbs like kalonji can reduce oxidative stress and prevent male infertility. The seeds of N. sativa are used as a spice in many cuisines. [6] In Palestine, the seeds are ground to make bitter qizha paste. [10]Other test-tube studies suggest that kalonji and its components may also be effective against several other types of cancer, including pancreatic, lung, cervical, prostate, skin and colon cancers.

Muralidharan-Chari V, et al. (2016). Thymoquinone modulates blood coagulation in vitro via its effects on inflammatory and coagulation pathways. Kalonji has been used as an antidiabetic herb in traditional medicine for a long time. Evidence shows that kalonji reduces high blood sugar levels in diabetic rats. Nigella sativa extract and oil contain a plant chemical called thymoquinone. It helps increase insulin levels and decrease blood sugar levels. Nigella seeds can be used as a functional food to control and prevent diabetes.Another review of 17 RCTs found that kalonji oil was effective at significantly reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol, while the powder increased HDL (good) cholesterol in healthy participants and in people with conditions like diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure ( 12). Unlike many other remedies, kalonji is a natural cure for hemorrhoids and is highly effective for treating constipation.

Hyam, R. & Pankhurst, R.J. (1995). Plants and their names: a concise dictionary. Oxford: Oxford University Press. ISBN 978-0-19-866189-4. p. 341.

Prevention & Wellness

Another benefit is that kalonji can help to improve the health of your digestive system. It contains selenium and other minerals that are important for maintaining the health of your body. Kalwanji seeds can also be beneficial for your digestive health when combined with other spices, such as ginger and cardamom. It is very easy to add a handful of raw or cooked kanji seeds to your diet and start seeing results. You won’t have to worry about your weight again.

Adding nigella seeds to your diet can help control your blood pressure and prevent heart problems and stroke.

Diet & Weight Management

These doses have also been shown effective for heart health and managing blood sugar levels ( 12, 15). It should be noted that physical activity levels weren’t assessed in many of the studies, which potentially also influenced the results. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of kalonji help prevent your cells from becoming cancerous. Studies show that thymoquinone and other plant bioactive compounds from kalonji help prevent breast cancer, bone cancer, skin cancer, and pancreatic cancer. Including kalonji seeds in your diet can be a natural way to keep long-term illnesses like cancer away. Similarly, a test-tube study showed that thymoquinone, the active compound in kalonji, helped reduce inflammation in pancreatic cancer cells. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration classifies Nigella sativa as Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS) for use as a spice, natural seasoning, or flavouring. [12] History [ edit ]