Nigella seeds are popularly known as Kalonji in India. They may not be used as often as cumin seeds(Jeera) or Carom seeds(Ajwain) but these are equally nutritious. Also called black cumin, kalonji is a flavorful spice that has its own sweat and nutty flavor. There are some traces of kalonji being used as a medicinal remedy centuries ago. It aids digestive, respiratory and a variety of health issues. Loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, fatty acids and a wide range of trace elements, kalonji deserves a place in your diet. This article sheds light on all the probable health benefits of nigella seeds aka kalonji.
1. Fight free radical damage
Kalonji is packed with antioxidants which are great to prevent free radical damage by neutralizing their effects on the body. Also, these reduce the oxidative stress to avert health dangers caused due to oxidative stress such as cancer, heart issues, premature aging, etc. Obese people must include these seeds to their diet as it aids weight loss while fixing digestive health.
2. Reduces Cholesterol levels
For a healthy body, one should have normal cholesterol levels. There are two types of cholesterol- good(HDL) and bad(LDL). High levels of bad cholesterol are detrimental to your health. These not only affect the functioning but also risk you for heart ailments. Kalonji reduces the LDL and blood triglycerides levels to prevent its repercussions on the health.
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3. Prevent cancer
There are some studies claiming that consuming kalonji can kill breast cancer cells. Besides, it may also fight against other cancers such as prostate cancer, skin, lung, colon and pancreatic cancer. Their high antioxidant levels fight free radicals which are helpful in averting cancer risk
4. Aids weight loss
Can kalonji help in weight loss? Yes. The regular consumption of kalonji is associated with weight loss. Its active compound melts down fat reserves in the body that helps in reducing body weight and regulating Body Mass Index or BMI.
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5. Keeps infections at bay
By destroying the harmful bacteria, kalonji can protect you against infections and autoimmune diseases. These are said to possess antibacterial properties to keep bacterial infections at bay. These infections could be a skin infection, ear infection or other kinds of bacterial infections. Wounds can turn fatal for diabetic patients. Eating nigella seeds can reduce the chances of infection thereby securing the health of the person. These black seeds are also linked with inflammation which acts as a protective factor to secure overall health.
6. Secure Liver health
The liver is one of the vital organs of the body. It produces and processes essential nutrients, metabolizes drugs and flushes out toxins for better-functioning liver. Some studies suggest that eating kalonji may protect against kidney and liver damage but there is no scientific evidence to back this. However, it does aid liver problems with its anti-inflammatory properties.
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