Kalonji (Upakunchika (Kunchika, Karavi, Karanji, Prithvika, Krishna))
Kalonji, commonly known as black cumin or black seed, is derived from the seeds of Nigella sativa, an annual flowering plant native to South and Southwest Asia. It has been a cornerstone in traditional Ayurvedic, Unani, and Islamic medicine for centuri...
Botanical name: Nigella sativa.
Classical attributes
- Virya: []
- Vipaka: []
Dosha effects
- vata: balancing
- kapha: decreasing
- pitta: increasing
Clinical evidence
Meta-analyses of up to 15 RCTs and databases tracking 20+ RCTs show substantial evidence supporting Kalonji's role in metabolic syndrome management, including significant reductions in fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, blood pressure, LDL-c, and modest improvements in weight and BMI. Furthermore, clinical trials and meta-analyses indicate its efficacy in alleviating symptoms and improving lung function in respiratory conditions like asthma and allergic rhinitis. Promising data also suggest benefits for gastrointestinal health (e.g., H. pylori eradication, anti-ulcer) and various skin conditions (e.g., eczema, psoriasis). The herb also demonstrates immunomodulatory and significant antioxidant properties.
Ayurvedic karmas
- Deepana (Appetizer)
- Pachana (Digestive)
- Anulomana (Carminative)
- Stambhana (Constipative, at times, due to Kashaya/Ruksha)
- Vrana-ropana (Wound healing)
- Shvasa-hara (Alleviates asthma)
- Kasa-hara (Alleviates cough)
Classical clinical indications
- Agnimandya (Poor digestion)
- Shvasa (Asthma)
- Kasa (Cough)
- Vrana (Wounds, cuts)
Frequently asked questions
What is Kalonji?
Kalonji, commonly known as black cumin or black seed, is derived from the seeds of Nigella sativa, an annual flowering plant native to South and Southwest Asia. It has been a cornerstone in traditional Ayurvedic, Unani, and Islamic medicine for centuri...
What are the benefits of Kalonji?
Kalonji is traditionally used in Ayurveda for wellness support.
How is Kalonji used in Ayurveda?
Kalonji is prepared and used according to classical Ayurvedic guidance.