Kalonji/Nigella Sativa/Black Cumin Seeds/Oil/Powder

Kalonji seeds are a storehouse of protein, carbohydrate, dietary fiber and fat. The seeds are also abundant in vital minerals including calcium, phosphorus, iron, sodium and potassium and essential vitamins A, C, E and K conferring with the improved immune system, healthy liver and maintaining heart health. These seeds are a powerhouse of crude fiber, amino acids, saponin, iron, sodium, <calcium and potassium besides fatty acids like linolenic and oleic, volatile oils. These black seeds contain Nigella and Melatin, two components prized for highly nutritive and medicinal properties. A rich supply of polyunsaturated fatty acids, black seeds boost metabolism, keep cholesterol under check, balance levels of insulin, facilitate blood circulation throughout the body and aid liver function.

Ayurveda recommends daily consumption of 20 grams of these seeds to enhance lubrication between joints, for maintaining a healthy heart, fight breathing problems and to prevent cancer, thanks to its anti-carcinogenic properties.

The black seeds or Kalonji, possess more than 100 medicinal properties and exhibit anti-inflammatory, antibiotic and antiseptic properties. It is loaded with organic acids and is a must-have ingredient in your daily skin and hair care. Kalonji seeds and oil can be used both for skin and hair related problems.

Uses of Kalonji Seeds

• Used mainly in bread recipes and savoury dishes; kalonji has a very distinctive aroma and taste. If you love to eat Indian cuisine then you will more than likely love the flavour of the kalonji seed.

Health Benefits Of Kalonji Seeds:

• Prevents Diabetes: The primary function of Kalonji seeds is the prevention of diabetes. According to Ayurveda, these seeds prevent a sudden spike in the levels of blood sugar and can also prevent other symptoms caused due to diabetes like excessive thirst, fatigue and confusion. Regular intake of Kalonji oil, seeds or supplements not only improves fasting blood sugar but also develops insulin resistance. Add a quarter spoon of Kalonji oil to a cup of black tea and drink it on an empty stomach to bring down the levels of blood sugar.
• Heals Stomach Ulcers: Stomach ulcers can be quite painful, and these sores eat into the mucus lining of the stomach. Researchers reveal that eating black seeds not only reduces stomach ulcers but also protects the stomach lining from the ill-effects of alcohol and promotes digestion.
• Protects Liver: The incredible components and compounds in Kalonji save the liver from toxicity by regularizing its functions like metabolism, processing nutrients and minerals that are important for health. Take Kalonji seeds or oil daily to reduce the toxicity of chemicals and to safeguard both liver and kidneys.
• Reduces Inflammation: Chronic inflammation leads to various health disorders and can interfere with bodily functions. Thymoquinone, an active compound found in Kalonji, helps reduce inflammation in body parts including the pancreas. Ayurveda recommends the intake of Kalonji oil in moderate amounts daily to decrease inflammation.
• Lowers Cholesterol: Bad cholesterol or LDL is a major risk factor behind cardiac disease. According to a study published by the National Institute of Health, using Kalonji oil significantly brings down the levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) while Kalonji seed powder improves HDL or good cholesterol.
• Anti-Cancerous Properties: Being a storehouse of antioxidants, Kalonji seeds aid in neutralizing free radicals that can cause different types of cancer. The anti-cancer properties of thymoquinone inactivate cancer cells and works against pancreatic, lung, cervical and breast cancers.
• Wards Off Bacteria: Kalonji oil and seed powder exhibit antibacterial properties and can effectively fight certain types of bacteria. Topical application of Kalonji oil on the skin infection caused due to streptococcal bacteria heals the skin and reduces redness. It also works against warding off infections caused due to methicillin-resistant bacteria staphylococcus aureus, particularly in diabetics.
• Boosts Memory: Memory loss and cognitive function inability are the problems faced by elderly. Ayurveda recommends consuming Kalonji oil or seed powder along with mint leaves to boost memory and to prevent neurological disorders like dementia, Alzheimer's etc.
  Boil a fistful of fresh mint leaves in water and add half spoon of Kalonji oil or seed powder. Consume it daily on empty stomach for better brain function.
• Aids Kidney Function: Ayurvedic practitioners vouch by the benefits of black seed or Kalonji oil in improving the kidney health. Regular intake of Kalonji powder along with honey and warm water helps in curing kidney function, prevent kidney stones.
• Lubricates Joints: Kalonji oil or seed powder are known for healing joint pains by providing lubrication between the joints. The active compounds in the seed facilitate smooth movements of the bone joints, thus healing inflammation.
  If you are suffering from stiffness in the joints, swelling and soreness, mix 1/2 spoon of Kalonji oil along with equal amounts of honey in 1 cup of vinegar and apply it on the joints twice a day for relief.
• Strong Teeth: Chew on few Kalonji seeds daily for stronger teeth and gums. These seeds serve as instant remedy if you are suffering from swollen gums, bleeding gums and premature falling of teeth. Alternatively, you can mix 1/2 teaspoon of Kalonji oil or powder in curd and apply it on the gums, to reduce toothache.
• Heals Hemorrhoids: Hemorrhoids also known as piles cause severe pain in the rectal region and Kalonji serves as an instant remedy in treating it. The laxative properties in the seed add bulk to the stool and treat constipation naturally. Take Kalonji seeds along with black tea on an empty stomach to ease bowel movements. Make a mixture of Kalonji oil and vinegar in equal amounts, warm it slightly and apply it on the affected areas for instant relief from pain.
• Clears Cracked Heels: There are many reasons that can cause cracked heels. Obesity, poorly fitting footwear, lack of moisture can lead to those ugly and painful cracks on the sole. Rub black seeds powder or oil on the affected area to clear the cracks. You can also mix Kalonji oil with lemon juice and massage on the sole. This mixture not only clears bacteria but also softens the skin.
• Boosts Energy: Add a spoonful of these black caraway seeds to your daily diet for improving immunity and to provide energy for fighting various infections. Kalonji is a natural immune booster and it is used extensively in various cuisines not only for flavour but also for its quick healing properties. Studies reveal that these tiny seeds boost metabolism and help you get rid of laziness.
• Improves Vision: Hemorrhoids also known as piles cause severe pain in the rectal region and Kalonji serves as an instant remedy in treating it. The laxative properties in the seed add bulk to the stool and treat constipation naturally. Take Kalonji seeds along with black tea on an empty stomach to ease bowel movements. Make a mixture of Kalonji oil and vinegar in equal amounts, warm it slightly and apply it on the affected areas for instant relief from pain.
• Kalonji Seeds For Skin And Hair: The oil obtained by cold-pressing the Black Cumin Seeds (Nigella Sativa) is known as Black Seed Oil or Kalonji oil. Apart from culinary preparations, it is also used in cosmetic applications due to its nourishing properties. You can also use Black seed oil to add a unique flavor to your pickles, curries, and other food items. However, do not add too much as it is a concentrated oil.