Kalonji – Nigella Sativa Uses, Side Effects, Research
Kalonji – Nigella sativa – Small fennel, a promising spice against cancer and chemotherapy side effects, useful to lower cholesterol, useful in asthma, diarrhea, nephrotoxicity (toxins in Kidney) and Hepato toxicity (toxic liver). It is a good anti-inflammatory, analgesic, relieves pain, fever and inflammation.
Botanical Name- Nigella Sativa Linn.
Family- APIACEAE/RANUNCULACEAE (Vatsanabha kula)
Table of Contents
Vernacular names
Names in different languages:
Hindi name- Kalounji, Kalonji
Tamil & Malayalam name- Karun Jeeragam
Telugu name- Jeelakarra
English name- Small fennel, Black onion seeds, onion seeds, Kalonji, Black seed, Simple Nigella.
Confusing names such as Black caraway, Black cumin, which is actually Bunium bulbocastanum is also used to indicate this.
Sanskrit synonyms
Sanskrit Synonyms of Kalonji:
Kalajaji, Kalika, Karavi, Pruthvi, Pruthvika, Upakunchika, Sushavi, Bashpika, Kunji, Upakunjika
Classical categorisation
Classical categorisation of Nigella sativa:
Kaiyadeva Nighantu – Oshadi Varga, Jeerakatraya
Dhanvantari Nighantu – Shatapushpadi Varga
Chemical constituents
Major chemical constituents of Nigella sativa:
Kalonji seeds contain fixed and essential oils, proteins, alkaloids and saponin.
Nigellin, Essential oil etc. Essen oil contains Cymine, Nigellone, Carvone, Limonene, Nigellimine.
Thymoquinone is the major chemical component of the essential oil.
Varieties, distribution
Varieties
There are two herbs used in the name of Black cumin.
Carum bulbocastanum / Bunium bulbocastanum – Black cumin, Black caraway
Nigella sativa – small fennel / Simple nigella / Kalonji
There are two herbs used in the name of Black cumin.
Carum bulbocastanum / Bunium bulbocastanum – Black cumin, Black caraway
Nigella sativa – small fennel / Simple nigella / Kalonji
Distribution: Found in central Europe, Spain, Portugal. In India, found in Jammu and Kashmir and Nilgiris.
Medicinal properties
Kalonji medicinal Properties:
Guna (qualities) – Rooksha (dryness), Laghu (lightness)
Rasa (taste)- Katu (Pungent), Tikta (Bitter)
Vipaka- Katu – Undergoes pungent taste conversion after digestion
Veerya- Ushna – Hot potency
Effect on Tridosha: Pacifies Kapha and Vata Dosha. Increases Pitta.
Part used, dosage
Part used:Seed, seed oil
Dosage: Powder 1-3 gm.
Dosage of Kalonji oil – 3 – 5 ml, once or twice a day after food.
How to use it?
Seed powder in 1 – 3 grams quantity is mixed along with honey and administered.
How long to use?
It can be used in 1 – 2 grams daily. For therapeutic purposes, it is usually administered for a period of 2 – 3 months.
Sanskrit verse
Kalonji Benefits
Rochana – improves taste, appetizer
Deepana – improves digestion strength
Vatahara – Balances Vata, useful in neurological disorders such as paralysis, hemiplegia, neuropathy etc
Daurgandhyanashana – relieves bad breath, bad odor
Pachana – digestive
Pravartati Artavam – Induces menstruation, useful in amenorrhea
Sangrahi – absorbent, bowel binding, useful in IBS, diarrhea
Medhya – Brain tonic, improves intelligence
Jwaraghna –useful in fever
Vrushya – aphrodisiac
Chakshushya – useful in improving eye sight
Adhmanahara – relieves bloating
Gulmahara – useful in abdominal tumor
Chardihara –relieves vomiting
Atisarahara – useful in diarrhea, dysentery
Vatahara – Balances Vata, useful in neurological disorders such as paralysis, hemiplegia, neuropathy etc.
Jantughni – useful against intestinal worm infestation
In folklore remedies, Small fennel is used in treating asthma, diarrhea and high cholesterol levels.
It is useful in nephrotoxicity (toxins in Kidney) and Hepato toxicity (toxic liver)
It is a good anti-inflammatory, analgesic, relieves pain, fever and inflammation. Useful in headache, toothache, conjunctivitis.
Widely used in the Unani system of medicine as well.
Kalonji for hair growth
Kalonji seed powder and carrot juice together is made into paste and is applied on the scalp. It is also taken orally to fight against hair loss.
Kalonji during pregnancy
Due to its excess hotness, it is best to avoid it during pregnancy. If at all, to be used for any specific disease, it should only be used for a very short period of 1 – 2 weeks, in as small a dose as possible (less than 3 grams per day)
Taking it in large quantities, especially after the 6th month of pregnancy may cause uterine muscle contraction in the mother, which is not desired.
Kalonji oil
Onion seed oil / Kalonji oil decreases blood pressure and increases respiration, useful against cholesterol. It is also a good antioxidant.
It is applied externally for the treatment of vitiligo.
Kalonji seed
Use of kalonji seed in PCOS:
Kalonji is useful both in obesity and to fight insulin resistance / diabetes.
Hence, it is very effective in PCOS also. It helps to shorten the lengthy menstrual cycle, which is a common problem with women suffering with PCOS.
Dose can be half a teaspoon per day, with water, at any time of the day. It can be continued for 2 – 3 months
For belly fat
How to take Kalonji powder for belly fat burning?
1 teaspoon of Kalonji powder is mixed with 1 teaspoon of honey. Swallow this paste with a cup of water, at night, after food.
This can be continued for a period of 2-3 months
Use after delivery
Use of Kalonji after delivery:
Bhava Prakasha has used the term Garbhashaya Vishuddhi krut to explain use of black onion seeds. It indicates cleansing of the uterus.
In South Indian custom, after delivery, A water decoction made with black cumin or Kalonji is administered to the mother from day 2 to day 10. In a dose of 15 ml in the morning, empty stomach. It is done to fight post delivery infection and to strengthen the mother’s internal system.
External application
Its paste is applied over male genitals to treat erectile dysfunction.
In toothache, its seed is given for the patient to chew for 3 – 5 minutes.
Research
Anti-cancer activity
Seed extract against hypertension
Cardio-protective activity
Side effects
People with Pitta body type, who cannot tolerate hotness and spiciness may find it difficult to use this spice.
It may cause or worsen gastric burning sensation in people with sensitive stomach or gastritis.
Because it can induce menstruation, it is not ideal for patients with heavy periods, short menstrual cycles.
It is best to avoid this during pregnancy. Can be taken in limited quantities in children and lactating mothers.
Because it can lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels, people with high BP and diabetes medication need to take precaution.
One person reported an increase of migraine attacks following use of Kalonji. Because Kalonji can increase Pitta dosha and because migraine is also associated with Pitta dosha, migraine patients should exercise precaution while taking Kalonji. Or they can take it along with ghee, if at all needed.
Interaction with medicines, supplements
Can this be used while taking Homeopathic medicine?
Yes. This product does not react with homeopathic medicine.
Can this medicine be continued while taking supplements like multivitamin tablets, Omega 3 fatty acids etc?
Yes. Generally, this product goes well with most dietary supplements. However, if you are taking more than one product per day, please consult your doctor for an opinion.
With western
medicines
Seek your
doctor’s advice if you are taking this product along with other western
(allopathic / modern) medicines. Some Ayurvedic herbs can interact with modern
medicine.
If both Ayurvedic and allopathic medicines are advised together, then it is
best to take Allopathic medicine first, wait for 30 minutes and then take the
Ayurvedic medicine.
Systemic Action (Sthanika Karma)
External – Analgesic, Anti inflammatory, and scraping action on dhatus. External application of seed paste is indicated in Alopecia, skin diseases etc. Powder nasya is indicated in headache and in jaundice. fumigation can be done in conditions like hemorrhoids, rhinitis etc. External application of Kalongi oil and its paste is beneficial in joint pain and in diseases of vata origin.
Nervous system – Stimulant and pain relieving action on the nervous system.
Digestive System – Appetizer, increases digestive fire, Antispasmodic, facilitates movement of vata dosha in normal direction, Absorbent, Anthelmintic. indicated in loss of appetite, anorexia, diarrhea, Colic pain, Malabsorption syndrome, indigestion, helminthiasis (gandupada krimi) . It can be given along with other other purgative medicines.
Respiratory system – Expel out vitiated kapha dosha from respiratory tract. Indicated in cough, Asthma
Excretory System – Induce urine production. Indicated in dysuria.
Reproductive System – Increases breast milk production. Helps to contract uterine muscles to expel out the debris after delivery. Also indicated in Dysmenorrhea, Amenorrhea etc.
Skin – it is indicated in skin disorders.
Tapakrama – Indicated in fever (vishamajvara) – Seed powder along with jaggery can be given
66 comments on “Kalonji – Nigella Sativa Uses, Side Effects, Research”
Sudhakar Bhat
Prophet Mohamed has said that Kalonji can cure all types of diseases except Death. Cheers!!! :o)
mahesh
Death is not a disease
It is trueth.
Muhammad Salman Riaz
Yes, but the underlying meaning here is ‘disease leading to death’.
manwinder
Very true sir
Vidhyadharan
Is this any kalonji tablets. Pls let us know where will we get this
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Kalonji oil capsules are available online.
kuljeet singh
Amazed and very informative.
surjit
Can kalonji oil be used in cooking ?If so,what is the best method to use it in cooking ?
BERRYKK
Very informative
Kunwar Singh
Kalonji and onion seeds resemble same but both come from different plants. Readers should not get confused over this issue.
kaleemullamohamedali632
Its amazing to know that Prophet Mohamed who died in 632Ad. knew the enormous benefits of Kalonji.
Quaid johar
Kalonji seeds have been found in several sites from ancient Egypt, including Tutankhamun’s tomb. Although its exact role in Egyptian culture is unknown, it is known that items entombed with a pharaoh were carefully selected to assist him in the after life.
The earliest written reference to N. sativa is thought to be in the book of Isaiah in the Old Testament where the reaping of nigella and wheat is contrasted (Isaiah 28: 25, 27). Easton’s Bible dictionary states that the Hebrew word ketsah refers to without doubt to N. sativa (although not all translations are in agreement)
In Islam, it is regarded as one of the greatest forms of healing medicine available. Muhammad (S.A.W.) once stated that the black seed can heal every disease-except death-as recounted in the following hadith:
[Sahih Muslim: Book 26 Kitab As-Salam, Number 5489]
It is also included in the list of natural drugs of ‘Tibb-e-Nabavi’, or “Medicine of the Prophet (Muhammad)(S.A.W.)”, according to the tradition “hold onto the use of the black seeds for in it is healing for all diseases except death” (Sahih Bukhari vol. 7 book 71 # 592).
Nina
Dr. Kalonji/ black seed oil should be avoided if one has chronic Gastrist ? . Though it seems it will help with hemorides and endro gland thyroid etc?.
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Its tolerance varies from person to person. Some with even gastritis tolerate it well, some do not. It needs to be tried in low dose for a week to look for any stomach disturbances.
Dr Malini Bhat
Sir, Kalonji can be used just as an adjuvant and not for the permanent cure of epilepsy. For the cure of Epilepsy consult a ayurvedic physician for treatment.
Sudershan Chennaboina
Valuable information and also having multi-purpose uses on human health.
Dr Malini Bhat
Thank you so much for your appreciation sir.
Pranahitha
Hi sir, I have severe bad breath problem, plz suggest me some solution. Thnku
Pranahitha
Thnku sir, but what is gandusha??
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Oil pulling / mouth gargling. Read more here – https://www.easyayurveda.com/2013/08/16/how-to-do-oil-pulling-in-genuine-ayurvedic-way-9-tips/
Dr.J.S.Makkar
Good Morning Dr.Hebbar,
An siddha prepration name Seemai Agathi paste (fungiwin oint) by SKM COMPANY,
Contains Nigella sativa as 10%of its incredients.
So it is widely use in Fungal/bacterial infections
So clarify about how it is useful in skin infections.?
Its not mentioned, if i am not wrong
Thanks
With regards
Dr.J.S.Makkar
Deep Ayurved clinic
+919501066933
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
3 – 5 ml, can be used as part of diet.
Rohit Borgade
Is kalonji harmful to throat? When taking it daily…
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
No.
Kiran
Onion Seeds are same as Kalonji Seeds?Please tell
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Hi, kalonji seeds are also called as onion seeds.
nooreen
Hello. Thank you for the informative article. I have recently purchased Kalonji Oil. I have ulnar nerve neuropathy that makes my hands hurt, tingle and burn. How do I use this oil for my hands?
(Ps. I also eat 7 kalonji seeds with 1tsp of honey everyday)
cheelianderson
siis kalonji an answer for a breast cancer too?
Faraz
Sir, Kalonji seeds and onion seeds both are different things.
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
They are one and the same.
Tina
Does Kalonji seeds need to be heated before grinding to be effective or just grind the seeds and no need to heat/ roast them before grinding them ?
Also if taken with food is it still effective .
Any harm taking 1/2 tsp seed powder daily ?
Mimi
Dr. In artical mentioned above dose 1-3 gm with honey is seed powder or seed 1-3 gm ? . Is honey use with it must does honey makes it more effective and should take after food with honey ?.
Lot of talk of taking Oil on the net . If it’s Oil instead of seed podwer how much oil can be taken daily ? After food or away from food also with honey ?
Which is more effective Oil or seed podwer
Mimi
Can the podwer be added over the food while eating the food
or have
to take after the food ? Is one way is more effective than the other method ? Thanks
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Powder can be added over the foo.
Prashant Sharma
Hello sir/ madam
My father has knee pain problem. So I read somewhere that kalonji with honey is good medicine for knee pain. But my father also has high BP. So please suggest me how much quantity of both kalonji and honey should he take.
Prashant sharma
Thank you very much sir
jenny
Dear doctor,
Is kalonji good for women who are planning to have a pregnancy soon?>
Rahul soni
Is kalongi oil is safe to use(in hair) when our creantinine level is high?
manasa2017yahoocom
is nigella sathiva useful in vitiligo
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Due to its excess hotness, it is best to avoid it during pregnancy. If at all, to be used for any specific disease, it should only be used for a very short period of 1 – 2 weeks, in as small a dose as possible (less than 3 grams per day)
Taking it in large quantities, especially after 6th month of pregnancy may cause uterus muscle contraction in the mother, which is not desired
Ridzi butt
Is kalunji harmfull in period days? If not then what r the effects of kalunji drink in periods?
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
It is made with an oil press machine.
You can apply it for hair fall.
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Use very less of kalonji and mustard seeds. Use very thin watery yoghurt. Leave it on hair for only 20-30 minutes.
Latha John
Thank you
TERRY L KELLY
I have been taking Kalonji Oil for over a month and I have a small rash under my right arm and my right side feels like it is itching on the inside. Am I allergic to the oil? I love the benefits of the oil?
Ruby
Alcohol talking people can take kalonji ?
Lakshitha
Sir- Is kalonji good for diabetes? How to take it and what dosage?
Iqra Wajid... (@iqra_8888)
Sir please tell how much kalongi should i take for weight loss?and how many time in a day?
Meena
Hi sir for weight loss how do you take that seed does it have to be grind or straight seeds! Please do let me know ! Thanks much appreciate the advice! !
Shabana
And I am on insulin twice a day and taking glycomet 1 gm for diabetes. Please suggest the Dosage and therapy and duration
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Hi, it may not be useful in ulcer. But useful in anemia and in low menstrual flow.
Aarti Singh
Dear Sir, For persistent loose stools, indigestion, acid reflux, what would you suggest? Kaloongi, jeera, coriander, ginger….??? Best regards – Aarti Singh
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Jeera, coriander and cinnamon
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Now that you have taken it for so long, it is best to stop it.
Dawn
I just bought the oil because it addresses so many things I’m dealing thinning hair, blood sugar imbalance, Candida infection and more. However after applying it externally on my scalp I feel really uncomfortable as I feel a lot of heat and over stimulation. I immediately applied some coconut oil for it’s cooling properties, but I’m still bothered. Is there anyway I could make this less pitta aggravating? I would really like to get the benefits of this amazing herb.
Asif
Dear doctor
I’m writing this to you for your kind information that the black seed /Kalonji is for all disease except death.
Neha
Hello Dr. Hebbar
I suffer from migraines and have noticed that whenever I eat some vegetable cooked with Kalonji I get a migraine. But there is no such connection mentioned on the internet. Please share your thoughts on this as this would confirm a cause for some of my migraine episodes.
Thank you
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Hi, because Kalonji can slightly increase Pitta dosha and because migraine is associated with Pitta, kalonji might not be suited for you.
Uma
Hi sir.
How to consume kalonji seed for belly fat.
Also to stop longer periods.
Is kalonji powder and honey helps to stop periods.
Thanks
Kami
Sir I take kalwanji oil at I feel heat in the body and some times burning in the ear and also feel burning in my feet is it to continue
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
Hi, take it with ghee. If still you feel excess heat, then it is best to stop it.
Jo
For weight loss how shd I use it and for how long.. please suggest
S.Gayatri
For IBS is Kalonji effective?
If so how to use
Bangalore
Is it normal get Kalonji burps all day long after taking it?
Dr J V Hebbar MD(Ayu)
It might be due to excess hotness. Taking a few raisins can help.
Martha
Those with Pitta dosha like me who has eczema, can kalonji be taken with cow’s ghee for good nutritional benefits.