Have you ever seen tiny black seeds in your kitchen? You might have seen them in various foods, including bagels, naans, or other baked goods. But have you ever wondered what are those tiny black seeds? If you are curious about them, we have the answer for you!
Those small black seeds that have a slightly sharp and bitter taste are known as Nigella seeds. They come from an annual flowering plant from the family Ranunculaceae. They are primarily native to Asia, Africa, and the Mediterranean.
Nigella sativa grows to 20-30 cm in height and produces large fruit with several seeds. These seeds are extracted and used as Nigella seeds for flavoring agents in various cuisines.
Other than culinary uses, these seeds have also been used for medicinal purposes.
From bronchitis to diarrhea, it has been used for several centuries as a natural remedy.
In this blog, we will unveil what we call Nigella Seeds in Urdu, explore their various benefits, and also look into their side effects.
Nigella Seeds in Urdu
Nigella Seeds in Urdu کلونجی. In Roman, it is written as Kalonji.
Some other common Names of Nigella Seeds are as follows:
- Unani/Tibbi name: Kali ziri, Gandna, kalonji
- English Names: Small Fennel, Black Cumin, Black Seeds
- Hindi: Kalonji, Kala Jira
- Persian: Siyah danah, Shuniz
- Sindhi: Kalonji
- Bengali: Kala Jira, Mugrele
- Pashto: Orawanza
- Sanskrit: Kunchi, Knishana Jirka
- Arabic: Kamune-Asvad
Read More: Black Seed Oil Benefits, Dosage and Side Effects
10 Top Nigella Seeds Benefits (Kalonji Benefits)
1. Lower Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that is required in small quantities. However, if it is present in high amounts it can accumulate in the blood and arteries and can increase the risk of heart diseases.
If you want to have a balanced cholesterol level or want to lower it, then Kalonji is the ingredient to rely on.
Many studies have shown that kalonji supplementation is linked with a major drop in total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol and blood triglycerides. This eventually lessens the risk of heart disease.
Did You Know? It is also reported that Kalonji oil had a greater effect than Kalonji seed powder. However, only seed powder can increase good “HDL” cholesterol levels.
A study conducted on 94 diabetics reported that taking 2 grams of Nigella seeds daily for 12 weeks can reduce both total and LDL cholesterol levels.
2. Excellent Source of Antioxidants
Antioxidants are compounds that combat free radicals and prevent oxidative stress that can damage the cells of the body. Research reports that antioxidants can have a significant effect on the overall health.
Some studies have reported that antioxidants can protect against several chronic conditions like diabetes, cancer, obesity, and heart disease.
Nigella seeds have several compounds, like Thymoquinone, T-anethole, carvacrol, and 4-terpineol, which are responsible for their potential antioxidant properties.
Moreover, kalonji essential oil also functions as an antioxidant.
Read More: 9 Health Benefits of Kalonji You Should Know!
3. Fights Bacteria
Disease-causing bacteria cause a range of infections, ranging from throat infections to ear infections and pneumonia.
If you want to fight off the bacteria and prevent infections, then you can rely on kalonji.
Some test tube studies have reported that nigella seeds have antibacterial properties and are effective against some strains of bacteria.
In a study, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), a strain of bacteria is isolated which is also resistant to antibiotics. Kalonhi killed that bacteria in a dose-dependent manner in over half of the samples.
In another study, Black seeds when applied topically to infants having staphylococcal skin infection, found that it was effective as an antibiotic.
However, more research on humans is required to study the effects of kalonji on bacterial strains in humans.
4. Alleviates Inflammation
Inflammation is a normal immune system response that helps the body against infections. Chronic inflammation can cause several diseases, including cancer, heart disease, diabetes, etc.
Studies have reported that nigella seeds have significant anti-inflammatory effects on the body.
In a study, inflammation was induced in the spinal cord and brain of rats. In the other group, a placebo effect was given. As compared to the placebo, Kalonji was effective in protecting and suppressing inflammation.
A test tube study reported that Thymoquinone (an active compound in kalonji) helped in reducing inflammation in pancreatic cancer cells.
5. Have Anti-Cancer Properties
Nigella seeds being rich in antioxidants can neutralize the free radicals and prevent diseases like cancer.
Many test-tube studies have reported positive results regarding the potential anti-cancer effects of nigella seeds and thymoquinone (an active compound in kalonji).
A test tube study showed that thymoquinone induced cell death in blood cancer cells.
In addition to this, another study reported that the extract of Nigella seeds helps to inactivate breast cancer cells.
Kalonji and its compounds are effective against several other types of cancer, like lung, pancreatic, prostate, cervical, colon, and skin cancers.
کلونجی سے وزن کم کرنا ، 6 ایسے طریقے جو ناممکن کو ممکن بنادیں
6. Protects Liver
The liver removes toxins, processes nutrients, metabolizes drugs, and produces chemicals and proteins that are important for overall health.
Several animal studies have reported that nigella seeds can protect the liver against damage and injury.
In a study, rats were administered with a toxic chemical with or without Kalonji. The chemicals to which Kalonji was added reduced the toxicity of the chemicals and protected against kidney and liver damage.
A review also supported the protective effects of Kalonji due to its antioxidant content and ability to reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.
7. Helps in Blood Glucose Regulation
High blood sugar can cause symptoms like unintentional weight loss, increased thirst, fatigue, and difficulty in concentration. If high blood sugar is left unchecked, then it can cause serious complications, including vision changes, nerve damage, slow wound healing, etc.
Nigella seeds can also regulate blood sugar levels and prevent these serious side effects.
Moroever, a review showed that Kalonji supplementation improves levels of fasting and average blood glucose.
8. Prevents Stomach Ulcers
Stomach ulcers are painful sores in the stomach, formed due to stomach acids that eat the protective mucus layer that lines the stomach.
Some research reports that Nigella seeds can preserve the stomach lining and prevent ulcer formation.
An animal study reported that black seeds and their active compounds prevent ulcer development and also protect the stomach lining against the effects of alcohol.
However, you should keep in mind that current research is limited to animal studies. More research is needed to look at how kalonji can affect stomach ulcer development.
9. Treats Skin Conditions
Small-scale studies showed that it can help with various skin conditions, including acne, eczema, vitiligo, and psoriasis.
You can apply black seed oil on the skin to overcome skin-related issues.
However, it is suggested to perform a patch test before directly applying the oil all over the body parts.
کھجور کی اقسام کتنی ہیں؟سپر فوڈ کے فوائد اور حیرت انگیز حقائق
10. Helps in Weight Loss
Kalonji oil has phytochemicals (phytosterols) that can impact the gene’s expression, causing appetite control along with faster weight loss.
A study having 783 overweight people showed that Kalonji seed oil and powder can decrease 4.6 pounds average weight in comparison to the placebo group.
Another study showed that women taking a low-calorie diet with 3 grams of Kalonji oil reported a weight loss of 4.6 pounds as compared to the placebo.
How Much Black Seed Oil to Take Daily?
It is better to take 1-2.5 grams of black seed oil orally regularly. However, talk to a doctor before taking the oil as the doctor can recommend you the correct dosage.
What is the Best Time to Eat Kalonji Seeds?
You can take kalonji at any time of the day. However, taking them on an empty stomach in the morning can be beneficial for their health.
Nigella Seeds Side Effects
Nigella seeds also known as black seeds are safe in small quantities; however, some people may face a few side effects. Some of the rare side effects of eating kalonji in large quantities are as follows:
- Nausea
- Bloating
- Skin irritation
- Indigestion
- Constipation
- Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar)
- Abdominal cramps
Here are some conditions in which you should take Nigella seeds with great caution:
- Digestive Problems:
After eating black seeds in large quantities, some people face bloating, nausea, or other digestive problems.
- Pregnancy:
You can eat foods having black seeds during pregnancy, but taking additional black seed powder or oil is not recommended. In pregnant women, black seeds can slow down uterus contractions or even stop the contractions if consumed in large quantities.
- Medicinescva Interactions:
Kalonji can affect the metabolism of the body which means it may interfere or interact with some prescription medicines. Therefore, it is better to talk to your doctor if you are taking any medicines.
- Bleeding Problems:
Nigella seeds can make you more prone to bleeding and slow blood clotting. It can also worsen symptoms in people with bleeding disorders.
- Kidney Health:
Although black seeds can protect kidney health. However, some older studies report that taking black seed oil in excess, approximately 2000-2500 milligrams daily, can affect the kidneys. Therefore, it is better to talk to the doctor before taking black seed supplements, oil, or powder.
- Surgery:
Black seed oil can interact with medicines taken during or after surgery. It can cause potentially serious side effects. Do not take black seeds at least 2 weeks before surgery.
- Allergic Reaction:
If you apply black seed oil directly on the skin, you may get severe acute contact dermatitis (a serious itchy rash).
Key Takeaways
You might have been using and consuming Nigella seeds for years; however, you are not aware of its potential benefits and side effects.
From aiding in weight loss to preventing kidney, liver, heart, and skin diseases, kalonji benefits are innumerable.
It is good to consume nigella seeds in moderation to reap its benefits. But, if you eat these seeds in any form in excessive quantities, then you might end up facing its side effects.
Moreover, if you have any underlying condition, then it is better to consult the best nutritionist in Pakistan via Marham before eating nigella seeds on your own.
Download Marham’s Application
You can also download the Marham application to book your in-clinic and video consultation. Apart from that, you can also avail special discounts on medicines and lab tests.
To download Marham’s application, click here:
| Android | IOS |
|---|---|
 |
 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is kalonji called nigella seeds?
Yes. Kalonji in English is known as Nigella seeds.
3. Are nigella seeds the same as black jeera?
No. Nigella seeds are Kalonji where as black jeera are black cumin seeds. Nigella seeds belong to the Ranunculaceae family which is different from the black jeera family.