Kalonji Seeds Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage, and More!

The seed market in India is growing impressively for both agriculture and health benefits. In 2024, the Indian seed market reached USD 3.91 billion. Seeds offer various health benefits because they contain vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, fiber, and antioxidants that help control blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol.

There are 12 types of seeds popular in India. Kalonji seeds are one among these. Kalonji seeds benefit from overall health improvement. Scientifically known as Nigella Sativa, it is a flowering plant that grows in parts of South and Southwest Asia. Kalonji seeds are beneficial for both culinary and health. Today, let’s understand all about kalonji seeds. 

What are Kalonji Seeds?

Kalonji seeds are a small plant that grows widely in southern and eastern Europe, the Middle East, Southwest Asia, and North Africa. 

It is popular under several names, such as nigella, black cumin, fennel flower, black caraway, Roman coriander, Habbatul Barakah, and Tikur mud. 

Kalonji seeds emerge from the Nigella sativa plant, which can be used for cooking. However, some people apply kalonji oil to their bodies, which provides several health benefits.

Also, read https://redcliffelabs.com/myhealth/web-stories/7-health-benefits-of-pumpkin-seeds/ 

What Health Benefits Does Kalonji Oil Provide? 

Kalonji oil may support overall health because of the thymoquinone (compound) present in it. Thymoquinone is rich in: 

• Antioxidants
• Anti-inflammatory 
• Antiviral 
• Antifungal 
• Hepatoprotective 
• Analgesic (pain relief)
• Antibacterial 
• Antioxidant 
• Cytotoxic and anti-cancer 

Kalonji oil is commonly available in the market in the form of capsules. These capsules can help aid in: 

• Asthma 
• Inflammation 
• High cholesterol
• Metabolic syndrome 
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) 
• Diabetes 
• Cancer 
• Infertility 
• High blood pressure 
• Autoimmune disorder 
• Neurological disorder 

Nutritional Value in Kalonji Seeds

100 grams of Kalonji Seeds are enough to sustain the day and prevent the risks of chronic diseases. Here is the nutritional value of 100 grams of kalonji seeds. 

Nutrition	Amount (per 100 grams)
Calories	375 kcal
Protein	17.81g
Total Fat	22.27g
Saturated Fat	1.5g
Monounsaturated Fat	14.04g
Polyunsaturated Fat	3.27g
Carbohydrates	44.24g
Fibre	10.5g
Sugars	2.25g
Sodium	168 mg
Calcium	931 mg
Phosphorus	499 mg
Vitamin A	64 IU
Vitamins C	7.7 mg
Vitamin E	3.33 mg
Vitamin K	5.4 mg
Iron	66.36 mg

Also, read https://redcliffelabs.com/myhealth/general-health/khas-khas-benefits-a-complete-guide-to-poppy-seeds/ 

10 Impressive Health Benefits of Kalonji Seeds 

Since ancient times, kalonji seeds have benefited people. These seeds can help boost brain function, improve heart health, and more. Generally, people take around 1.5 grams of kalonji seeds in a day. However, the dose requirement differs from person to person. You should always consult your doctor to know the right amount of kalonji seeds. Kalonji Seeds possess plenty of benefits. These are:

1. It can boost brain power. 
2. It can control diabetes. 
3. It can reduce inflammation or pain. 
4. It can control blood pressure. 
5. It can improve heart health. 
6. It can relieve asthma. 
7. It can improve kidney health. 
8. It aids in weight loss. 
9. It can reduce headaches.
10. It contains anti-cancerous properties. 

1. Kalonji Seeds Can Boost Brain Power. 

Kalonji seeds enhance brain function and boost memory. Doctors suggest them as a preventive medicine for Alzheimer's. 

According to Ayurveda, daily consumption of kalonji seeds may boost memory and concentration, especially in older people. The beneficial compounds in kalonji seeds can protect brain cells from damage. 

2. Kalonji Seeds Can Control Diabetes 

A study shows that kalonji seeds are beneficial for diabetic people. They can lower or maintain blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. 

Kalonji seeds can be obtained by blending kalonji oil with black tea. This can help balance blood sugar levels. Diabetic people can also opt for kalonji seeds; however, consult your doctor before. 

3. Kalonji Seeds can Reduce Inflammation or Pain. 

Kalonji seeds contain anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation or pain. Thymoquinone, an active compound in kalonji oil, helps relieve inflammation. 

Studies have shown that kalonji seeds can prevent life-threatening diseases like arthritis or asthma. 

4. Kalonji Seeds can Control Blood Pressure.

Studies show that kalonji seeds can help maintain blood pressure. They help relax blood vessels and improve blood circulation, which lowers blood pressure. 

Kalonji seeds benefit immensely when their oil is consumed in warm beverages. It is also an ancient method of controlling blood pressure levels. 

5. Kalonji Seeds can Improve Heart Health.

The antibacterial, antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties of kalonji seeds can help improve overall heart health. 

Kalonji oil can reduce bad (LDL) cholesterol and triglycerides, reducing the risks of heart ailments. 

Adding kalonji seeds to your diet can help increase blood circulation and lower the risks of heart attacks. 

6. Kalonji Seeds can Relieve Asthma.

In ancient times, kalonji seeds were used to relieve health issues like Asthma. Their anti-inflammatory properties helped relieve Asthma. 

The seeds can relax airways and limit the risks of asthma attacks. Additionally, consuming kalonji seeds may reduce respiratory problems. 

7. Kalonji Seeds Benefits for Weight Loss

Seeds can help boost metabolism and contain properties that can curb cravings. This may benefit weight loss. 

If you are dieting or wish to lose weight, add kalonji oil to warm water and drink it. It can help with weight loss. Also, consult your doctor before using it. 

8. Kalonji Seeds can Reduce Headaches.

Headaches are common, and we often neglect them. These headaches might later turn into migraines. Apply kalonji oil on your forehead, which provides relief for your head. 

Also, the anti-inflammatory properties in kalonji seeds reduce the frequency and recurring headaches. 

9. Kalonji Seeds contain Anti-cancerous Properties.

Thymoquinone is an effective component in kalonji seeds. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anti-cancerous properties. 

Kalonji seeds' anti-cancerous properties may prevent the growth of cancerous cells and protect against any particular type of cancer. 

10. Kalonji Seeds Can Improve Kidney Health. 

Studies show that kalonji seeds can improve kidney health. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties can promote kidney functioning and prevent the chances of kidney stones. 

The properties, compounds, and nutrients in kalonji seeds help flush out toxins from the body and improve overall kidney health. 

Recommended Dosage of Kalonji Seeds 

Kalonji seeds have been known since ancient times. Since then, Ayurveda has described a daily dosage amount of kalonji seeds. 

Conditions	Recommended Dosage
Children	15 mg per Kg of body weight.
Adults	1 to 3g
During Pregnancy	Not Recommended
Lactation	1 to 3g
Geriatric Dosage	1g
Max. Dosage	6g per day in separate doses

You can consume kalonji seeds in capsules, powder, and oil. The daily dose of all these is: 

Type	Daily Dosage
Kalonji Powder	¼- ½ teaspoon in a day.
Kalonji Capsule	1-2 capsules twice in a day.
Kalonji Oil	¼-½ teaspoon once or twice a day.

6 Side Effects of Kalonji Seeds! 

The dosage differs from age to age. Without proper guidance, it may provide side effects or reactions. Here are 6 potential side effects of Kalonji seeds if taken excessively. 

1. Kalonji seeds can lower blood sugar levels, especially in diabetic people. They may face severe health problems. 
2. It may form a situation of hypotension, which can lower blood pressure. You may have symptoms such as fatigue, fainting, and weakness. 
3. It might trigger gastrointestinal discomfort such as gas, bloating, stomach aches, and diarrhea. 
4. It might increase the risk of bleeding, especially during surgical procedures. 
5. It might trigger skin allergic reactions such as itching, redness, or rashes. 
6. Kalonji contains blood-thinning properties that can increase the risk of nosebleeding. 

Key Takeaways 

Kalonji seeds benefit overall health because of their compounds and nutrition. Thymoquinone is an antioxidant that is mostly known for several kalonji seed benefits. Remember, you should consume kalonji seeds in moderate amounts, as excessive amounts can increase the risk of digestive issues, allergic reactions, and high or low blood pressure. You should know if you are allergic to kalonji seeds before consuming them. 

Redcliffe Labs offers a Food Allergy Panel Test, which can help you detect any type of food allergy. Their skilled and professional team of lab technicians and phlebotomists helps in the seamless execution of tests. Also, their DMLT-certified phlebotomist will visit your home to collect the blood sample, making it convenient and accessible. Simply book the test and check for food-allergic agents causing you trouble.