It goes without saying that the Indian kitchen is full of nature’s gifts that can heal you from pretty much anything. For thousands of years, generations have turned to those botanical powerhouses to unlock the secrets of well-being and rejuvenation. One such spice that works wonders for your health is black seed or Kalonji. From tackling skin problems to fighting thyroid, there are several health benefits of black seeds.
Also known as Nigella Seeds, Kalonji not only adds a beautiful aroma to the dishes, but it also adds a bit of flavor to them. Loaded with the goodness of several nutrients, including vitamins, fiber, amino acids, protein, fatty acids and more that can help you keep your overall health in check.
Nutritionist Leema Mahajan recently took to her Instagram account to share the many benefits of kalonji or black seed that a lot of people don’t know about.
Health benefits of kalonji or black seed
For their size, black seeds are a powerhouse of nutrients that offers a plethora of health benefits. Mahajan says that black seed or Nigella Satvia has been extensively studied for its various health benefits that are believed to cure anything except death. Here are some of the major health benefits of kalonji or black seeds that you should know:
1. Kalonji for skin problems
Are you having monsoon skin problems? Do you have psoriasis or acne? As it turns out, kalonji or black seeds can help you tackle the symptoms. Mahajan says it contains antibacterial, anti-microbial, anti-viral, antifungal, and anti-parasitic properties that can help you get rid of these skin problems. It is believed to be effective against these skin problems. It can help improve symptoms of psoriasis, acne vulgaris and even reduce vitiligo lesions. A study published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine found that there are positive effects of eating kalonji to tackle skin problems.
2. Kalonji for weight loss
The best way to lose weight is to make changes to your diet and exercise every day. So, it’s natural to add healthy foods to your diet, and kalonji can be one of them. Studies have shown that black seeds contain active ingredients that can help reduce fat. It also contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents that can also contribute to weight loss. A study published in Dovepress found that active ingredients in Kalonji can contribute to weight loss. It does so by reducing body weight and BMI.
3. Kalonji for thyroid
Thyroid is an endocrine gland that makes and releases hormones that help manage metabolism. When it doesn’t work properly, it leads to hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Mahajan writes that including kalonji in your diet may help you manage thyroid. Studies have also shown that eating black seeds may help decrease TSH and thyroid antibodies.
4. Kalonji for cholesterol
High cholesterol is a common problem that can increase the risk of developing health problems such as heart attack, high blood pressure, kidney diseases, and more. A healthy diet is key to managing cholesterol levels, and adding kalonji to your diet may help. Mahajan recommends including kalonji in your diet as it will help keep your LDL (bad) and HDL (good) cholesterol.
5. Kalonji for blood sugar levels
Are your blood sugar levels out of whack? Well, the nutritionist says that Kalonji may help keep them in check. In fact, a study published in the British Journal of Pharmaceutical Research found that adding Sativa seeds to your diet may help manage your blood sugar levels.
6. Kalonji for gastric issues
If you have been suffering from gastric issues, black seeds may be able to help. Turns out, it contains properties that inhibit the release of histamines, which helps get rid of gastric issues.
How to use kalonji for health?
Now that we know the benefits of black seeds, let’s see how to use it. The nutritionist has shared some ways you can include black seeds in your diet:
- Take 2 grams of kalonji per day. Roast half of these seeds, grind them, and take them in lukewarm water.
- You can also make a spice mix. Take some kalonji seeds, cumin seeds, coriander seeds, and fennel seeds and dry roast them. Make a fine powder. Now, add some turmeric powder and store it in an air-tight container.
- Kalonji seeds can also add them to curries, gravies, rice, and chapatis.
While kalonji seeds are considered safe to use but you should always ask your healthcare provider to know of the possible risks involved. You should also stop in case you notice any side effects.
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