Kalonji is an 8-35 inches tall flowering plant. Its fruits contain various black seeds. Other names of kalonji are Nigella sativa, black seed, and black cumin. Traditionally these seeds are used in Southeast Asian and Middle Eastern countries, to treat ailments like diabetes, pain, and digestive tract problems. The Prophet of Islam, Muhammad (PBUH) even believed the seeds to be an antidote for all diseases except death. Recently it is discovered that these seeds are rich in weight loss properties.
The article analyzes whether kalonji can help in weight loss and grant an overview of its health benefits, safety, and side effects.
Role of Kalonji in weight loss
The active components in kalonji seeds boost weight loss by stirring the assertion of specific genes associated with appetite control and fat loss. These effects are only noteworthy when kalonji is added to the diet. Moreover, lifestyle modifications, suggest that the herb supplements alone aren’t effective for weight loss. Rather, it requires a proper calorie strict diet to take advantage of kalonji to reduce weight.
Research Overview
A review of 11 studies of 783 participants with obesity found that kalonji powder and oil reduce body weight by an average of 4.6 pounds (2.1 kg) over 6–12 weeks. Anyhow, while kalonji is probably ineffective for weight loss on its own, it may aid weight loss when combined with a low-calorie diet.
Kalonji Sustains functionality of Heart
This herb significantly reduces heart disease risk through its favorable effects on blood pressure and blood fat levels. A write up shows that Kalonji powder and oil remarkably reduce blood pressure in people with both high and normal blood pressure after 8 weeks of treatment. The review also noted that kalonji supplements significantly reduce triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood that can elevate levels of heart disease.
Kalonji Maintains Blood-Sugar Level
Kalonji is found to promote healthy blood sugar levels in people suffering from type 2 diabetes. Type 2 diabetes is a condition in which the body doesn’t produce enough insulin hormone. Insulin is basically produced by the pancreas to lower blood sugar levels. Kalonji improves blood sugar management by increasing the action of insulin and delaying the absorption of sugar into the blood.
Effective Dosage of Kalonji
A useful dose of kalonji for weight loss appears to be 1–3 grams per day of the powder or 3–5 mL of the oil. Yet, these supplements in both powder and oil form are found equally efficient in working. However, the powder seems to be more effective than oil.
Adverse effects of Kalonji
Studies have revealed that there are no adverse effects of kalonji upon the functioning of the body. It does not even harm the mechanism of liver and kidneys when consumed in a moderate amount. However, mild side effects have been observed which include stomach ache and nausea. But for people relying upon medicines, it is highly recommended to ask suggestions from health care providers while adding kalonji in their diet to reduce weight.
Conclusion
The exact mechanism of weight loss through kalonji is still not understood properly. But one can rely upon it by following a strict diet plan as per suitable to one’s body. Besides, weight loss kalonji provides a range of health benefits that makes it noteworthy.
Hi! I am Madiha Anwar. Reading books and pursue skills is my passion since my childhood. Always dream to serve homo-sapiens along with this knowledge. Being a medical student I would love to write on health suggestions. I desire that articles bring a healthy change in your life. Stay tuned & stay healthy!