Introduction:
Kalonji (Black seeds) or Nigella sativa is a small black color seed is a miracle herb having numerous health benefit and used in Ayurveda, Unani and Arabic medicine since thousands of years. This seeds is mainly used in traditional medicine to treat range of digestive issue, respiratory problems, skin problems like skin pigmentation and even cancer as these black seeds are packed with nutrients, antioxidants and bioactive compounds. Kalonji seeds have shown to possess anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anti-cancerous properties, making them a potent natural remedy for promoting overall health wellbeing.
Bioactive compounds and health benefits:
1. Thymoquinone:
This bioactive compound shown to have neuroprotective effect and known to treat neurogenerative disorders like Alzheimer and Parkinson’s diseases. This even promote hair growth and prevent grey hair as it is shown to increase melanin production. This even help to protect the hair follicles from oxidative stress promoting healthy hair growth.
2. Nigellone:
This bioactive compound found in Kalonji seeds is effective in treating conditions like acne, eczema and even psoriasis. Additionally, this compound has proven to endorse hair growth, improve hair texture, its antifungal property helps to treat dandruff problems and other scalp issues. Its antioxidant property helps to protect the skin problems like wrinkles fine lines, age spots, special property of this compound is immunomodulatory effects which helps to regulate immune system and prevent autoimmune diseases.
3. Essential Fatty acid:
Kalonji seeds provides essential fatty acids such as linolic acid an omega-6 fatty acid that supports scalp health and reduce inflammation. On the other hand oleic acid and omega-9 fatty acid helps to lower the cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. Other fatty acids like palmitic acid, stearic acid and arachidonic acid plays in overall hair and skin health.
4. Vitamins:
Kalonji is packed with variety of vitamins like,
- Vitamin B1 (Thiamin):
This vitamin is helpful for energy production, nerve function and immune function
- Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin):
This vitamin present in Kalonji helps for eye health
- Vitamin B3 (Niacin):
This vitamin helps for cholesterol metabolism
- Vitamin E:
This vitamin acts as antioxidant, protecting cells from oxidative damage and skin health
Overall this nutrient dense food provides a rang
e of health benefits
Kalonji for Skin pigmentation:
Nutrients present in seeds and oil extracted from Kalonji helps to retain moisture in the skin, maintain elasticity of skin that is lost in the process of aging. Anti-bacterial property of this will reduce the risk of acne, control oiliness in the skin and reduce irritation. Massaging few drops of Kalonji oil on skin helps in clogging your pores.
Remedies for Pigmentation using kalonji:
1. Kalonji oil and Lemon juice:
Mix same proportion of Kalonji oil and lemon juice and apply on affected area and leave for 30 mins, and rinse it off with lukewarm water. Citric acid in lemon juice helps to brighten the skin and kalonji oil helps to reduce inflammation of the affected skin and promotes skin health
2. Kalonji oil and turmeric
Mix one teaspoon of Kalonji oil and 1 teaspoon of turmeric powder and make a paste of it. Massage the paste on affected part, leave for 30 mins and rinse it with lukewarm water.
3. Kalonji seed with yogurt and honey
Grind 2 tablespoon of Kalonji seed into fine powder and mix the powder with 2 tablespoon of yogurt and make a fine paste of it, then gradually add 1 tablespoon of honey to the mixture.
Massage the paste on the pigmented area for 5 minutes and leave it on the skin for 30 minutes, and rinse it off with lukewarm water. The lactic acid in the yogurt helps to brightens the the skin, whereas honey having anti-bacterial activity soothes the skin.
Anti-inflammatory property of kalonji seed will helps to reduce the inflammation that can worsen hyperpigmentation especially post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation.
Important consideration
Firstly check whether is kalonji is safe for everyone?
Kalonji is generally considered safe for most of the people. However , individuals with allergies, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers and other who are on medication for example it may react with blood thinners, so should do patch test before using it.
Sun Protection:
Hyperpigmentation can worsen when the affected area is exposed to direct sun rays, so it is advised to use sunscreen with SPF of 30 everyday. However, like other natural remedies Kalonji will reduce pigmentation gradually so be patience.
Recommended dose of Kalonji
The appropriate dosage of Kalonji varies based on its usage and purpose. Typically, you can incorporate 1-2 spoons of Kalonji seeds about 2-3 grams and 1/2 teaspoon of Kalonji oil in to your routines. Use the seeds whole, ground into powder, or oil form. Store the seed or oil in cool, dry jar away from direct sunlight and moisture.
Quality Consideration
Sourcing Kalonji seeds and oils from reputable suppliers is essential. you should check that seeds and oils are free from contaminants. Verify the expiration date of the products. Make sure the seeds and oils are fresh and effective.
Conclusion:
Kalonji oil and seed are natural remedies that can address skin pigmentation problems. Special properties and nutrients of Kalonji helps to promote skin health, reduce inflammation and enhance health benefits. Incorporating Kalonji seed and oil in your skincare routines will help to reduce pigmentation, promote skin health and achieve radiant complexion.
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