One study in 114 people with type 2 diabetes found no adverse side effects on kidney or liver function in a group that consumed 2 grams of the powder daily for 1 year in addition to their regular medications ( 19). Yildiz F, et al. (2008). Nigella sativa relieves the deleterious effects of ischemia reperfusion injury on liver.

The seed oil of Kalonji is beneficial for overall oral health. It can help with bleeding gums and toothaches. Mix one teaspoon with two tablespoons of curd and apply to the gums twice daily. It also helps with asthma. Take a teaspoonful of the seed with one teaspoon of honey mixed with warm water and take it every day. It can also help you lose weight – if you eat the seeds, they boost your metabolism and promote weight loss! Benefits for Digestive system Hannan A, et al. (2008). Anti bacterial activity of Nigella sativa against clinical isolates of methicillin resistant Staphylococcus aureus.A review of 5 RCTs found kalonji powder and oil supplements significantly decreased levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) — an indicator of inflammation and heart disease risk — in people with obesity based on body mass index (BMI) ( 9, 10). While kalonji has been associated with many health benefits and is generally safe when used as a spice or seasoning, taking a kalonji supplement or using kalonji oil may have risks. Rafati S, et al. (2014). Anti-microbial effect of Nigella sativa seed extract against staphylococcal skin Infection. a b " Nigella sativa L." Plants of the World Online. Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew . Retrieved 11 November 2020. Leong X-F, et al. (2013). Nigella sativa and Its protective role in oxidative stress and hypertension.

Another study in 57 people with diabetes showed that supplementing with kalonji for one year decreased total and LDL cholesterol, all while increasing HDL cholesterol. If you are pregnant, be sure to use it in moderation and consult your doctor if you have any concerns. Several other test-tube studies have shown that kalonji can help inhibit the growth of MRSA, as well as many other strains of bacteria.Another review of 13 studies with 875 participants showed that kalonji powder and oil reduced body weight by 4 pounds (1.8 kg) but had no significant effect on waist circumference over 6–13 weeks, compared with placebo ( 7).

Kalonji is high in antioxidants, which help neutralize harmful free radicals that may contribute to the development of diseases like cancer. Berger, Miriam (28 March 2019). "Is the world ready for this Palestinian dish?". BBC News - Travel . Retrieved 28 March 2019. Kanter M, et al. (2005). Gastroprotective activity of Nigella sativa L oil and its constituent, thymoquinone against acute alcohol-induced gastric mucosal injury in rats. These doses have also been shown effective for heart health and managing blood sugar levels ( 12, 15). A review of 11 studies in 783 participants with obesity or overweight found that kalonji powder and oil reduced body weight by an average of 4.6 pounds (2.1 kg) and waist circumference by 1.4 inches (3.5 cm) over 6–12 weeks, compared with a placebo ( 6).Kaatabi H, et al. (2012). Favorable impact of Nigella sativa seeds on lipid profile in type 2 diabetic patients. Interestingly, it also found that kalonji oil had a greater effect than kalonji seed powder. However, only seed powder increased levels of “good” HDL cholesterol. 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 ]