Satyori — Kalonji (Kalonji) Herb Quick Card
Herb Quick Card
Kalonji
Kalonji · Nigella sativa
Traditional Uses
While Kalonji does not feature as prominently in the earliest Ayurvedic samhitas as herbs like Haritaki or Ashwagandha, its traditional uses in Indian medicine are extensive and well-documented in later texts and regional practices. The Bhavaprakasha Nighantu prescribes it for Agni Mandya (weak digestive fire), Adhmana (bloating), Gulma (abdominal masses), Krimi (intestinal parasites), and Shvasa (respiratory conditions). It was also traditionally used as a galactagogue (Stanyajanana) to promote milk production in nursing mothers and as an Artavajanana (emmenagogue) to regulate menstrual flow.
Preparations
Whole seeds: 1-2 teaspoons daily, lightly toasted or raw, added to foods or taken with honey. Kalonji oil (cold-pressed): 1-2 teaspoons (5-10ml) daily with food or on an empty stomach. Churna (seed powder): 2-5g with honey for coughs, with warm water for digestion.
Dosage
Whole seeds: 1-2 teaspoons daily (approximately 2-5g). Cold-pressed oil: 1-2 teaspoons (5-10ml) daily.
Dosha Guidance
Kalonji is best suited for Vata and Kapha types due to its heating, stimulating, and drying properties. Kapha individuals benefit most directly, as the seed's pungent and bitter tastes, combined with its heating virya, directly counter Kapha's cold, heavy, and damp qualities. Kapha types can use Kalonji seeds and oil freely as both a culinary spice and a therapeutic supplement, particularly for respiratory congestion, sluggish digestion, and weight management.
Synergistic Combinations
Pairs well with honey, which is the most traditional vehicle for Kalonji in both Ayurvedic and Unani practice. Combined with Trikatu (ginger, black pepper, long pepper) for enhanced digestive and respiratory support.
Contraindications
Avoid therapeutic doses during pregnancy, as Kalonji has traditional use as an emmenagogue and may stimulate uterine contractions. Culinary amounts in food are generally considered safe. Use with caution alongside blood-thinning medications, as some studies suggest antiplatelet effects.
Tissues & Channels
Dhatus: Rasa dhatu (plasma), Rakta dhatu (blood), Mamsa dhatu (muscle), Meda dhatu (fat/adipose)
Srotas: Anna vaha srotas (digestive channel), Prana vaha srotas (respiratory channel), Rakta vaha srotas (blood channel), Artava vaha srotas (female reproductive channel)
Where to Buy
Quality Kalonji seeds should be uniformly small, jet black, angular-shaped, and have a mildly pungent, slightly bitter aroma when crushed between fingers. They should not be confused with black sesame seeds (which are larger and rounder) or Bunium persicum (which is a different species also sometimes called black cumin).
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Herbal Profile
Kalonji is one of 50 herbs — but which ones are right for your body? Your Herbal Profile reveals your top 10 herbs, herbs to avoid, best preparations, seasonal calendar, and a daily protocol matched to your dosha.