7 Surprising Benefits of Kalonji for Diabetes Control You Need to Know

If you have diabetes, you have probably tried every trick in managing it, from sugar-free diets to counting complex carbs to taking bitter herbs and strange supplements. But what if the answer is something as small, black, and simple as Kalonji seeds?

Kalonji, usually known as black cumin or Nigella Sativa, has been used in traditional medicine for hundreds of years. It is "a cure for every disease except death," as the Prophet Muhammad reportedly declared.

That may sound like poetic hyperbole, but current science is starting to catch up, especially when it comes to diabetes.

In this post, learn about Kalonji benefits (mainly for diabetes) along with its nutrient profile and side effects.

What Nutrients Are in Kalonji

Kalonji seeds are tiny. However, they are good for your health. Inside each seed of Kalonji, you will find

• Thymoquinone - A potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant component.
• Essential Fatty Acids - Oleic acid and linoleic acid, which are good for your heart and metabolism.
• Vitamins - B1, B2, B3, and folic acid are some examples of vitamins.
• Minerals  - Iron, calcium, potassium, and zinc.
• Fibre - It slows down the absorption of glucose and is suitable for your gut health.
• Proteins and alkaloids - Have anti-diabetic effects.

Seven Shocking Kalonji Benefits for Diabetes

Now, go to the real reason you are here - the benefits of Kalonji for diabetes that are highly backed by scientific evidence.

1. Helps Keep Blood Sugar Levels Normal

Several studies have shown that Kalonji makes insulin work better and decreases blood sugar levels when you do not eat.

A meta-analysis from 2017 in the Journal of Endocrinology & Metabolism indicated that people with type 2 diabetes who took Kalonji saw a significant drop in their HbA1c levels.

Another study of 2020 from BMC Complementary Medicine states that thymoquinone makes cells take in more glucose, which is similar to how insulin works. It is counted among the benefits of kalonji seeds for diabetes.

Taking 1 to 2 grams of Kalonji powder daily keeps blood sugar levels stable.

2. Keeps Cholesterol Levels in Control

Diabetes can cause dyslipidemia, which is when cholesterol levels are too high. It raises the risk of heart disease.

A study in the Journal of Ethnopharmacology (2016) has found that Kalonji decreases LDL (bad cholesterol) and triglycerides and increases HDL (good cholesterol).

Kalonji has good lipids and antioxidants that stop plaque from building up in your arteries. Taking kalonji oil or seeds a day can help you in your diabetes control and protect your heart.

3. Reduces Inflammation

Insulin resistance is mainly caused by long-term inflammation.

A study in 2021 from Phytotherapy Research has reported that thymoquinone lowers levels of TNF-α and IL-6, which are inflammation markers.

Kalonji protects pancreatic beta cells by neutralizing free radicals with its antioxidant qualities.

4. Helps Lose Weight

Being overweight makes diabetes worse. Kalonji may help your body burn fat.

According to a clinical trial published in the Journal of Diabetes & Metabolic Disorders in 2020, people who took Kalonji oil reduced abdominal fat than people who took a placebo. The seeds lower hunger and speed up the enzymes that burn fat.

Adding Kalonji to your diet could help you lose weight faster and better control your blood sugar.

5. Improves Pancreatic Function

Kalonji may help the pancreas make more insulin by helping its cells grow again.

A study on animals published in Biomedicine & Pharmacotherapy in 2018 has found that thymoquinone fixes injured pancreatic beta cells, which makes them release more insulin. Human trials show that the effects are similar.

Kalonji does not simply help with diabetes; it also helps fix damage to the pancreas. It is among highly acknowledged Kalonji benefits.

6. Enhances Heart and Kidney Health

People with diabetes are more likely to get heart and renal disorders.

In 2019, a study in Cardiovascular Toxicology stated that Kalonji lowers blood pressure and protects against diabetic nephropathy.

Its ability to make you pee helps get rid of pollutants, which helps your kidneys work better. Regular consumption of Kalonji powder or seeds protects your heart and kidneys from damage caused by diabetes.

7. Improves Your Overall Health

Kalonji benefits are not limited to diabetes management. It also helps improve overall health. Here are what consuming Kalonji seeds, powder, or medicine can do:

• Immunity - Fights infections with antibacterial qualities.
• Digestion - Prevents constipation and inflammation in the intestines.
• Skin Health - Lowers the risk of diabetic wounds and infections.

Side Effects of Kalonji Seeds

Kalonji is usually harmless for most individuals, particularly when used in cooking. However, you need to be careful when using it as medicine. Here are some possible Kalonji seeds side effects:

• Lowered Blood Sugar Levels - If you use it with strong anti-diabetic drugs, it can lower your blood sugar to a dangerous level and cause hypoglycemia.
• Allergies - Some people may have allergic reactions or sensitive skin.
• Uterine Contraction - If you are a pregnant woman, its high dosage may cause uterine contractions.

Talk to your doctor before you start taking Kalonji to manage your diabetes. It can help you lower the side effects of Kalonji seeds, powder, or medicine formulated using it. Your doctor can recommend

• 1 to 2 teaspoons of Kalonji seeds per day, particularly after soaking.
• Mix 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of Kalonji oil with honey or water. Drink this mixer.

Final Words

It is apparent that Kalonji is a powerful herb for controlling diabetes. Kalonji benefits are too good to overlook, from keeping blood sugar levels stable to fixing pancreatic cells.

Make Kalonji a part of your daily routine if you want a natural, science-based supplement to help you control your diabetes.

FAQs

1. What Are the Benefits of Kalonji for Diabetes Control?

Kalonji benefits for diabetes are healthy blood sugar levels, improved pancreatic function, reduced inflammation, controlled cholesterol levels, better heart & kidney health and improved overall health.

2. How Does Kalonji Help Manage Diabetes Naturally?

It helps manage body weight, improve heart & kidney health, enhance pancreatic function, and lower inflammation to manage diabetes naturally.

3. Is Kalonji Effective for Type 2 Diabetes Control?

Yes, it is effective for type 2 diabetes control.

4. Are There Any Side Effects of Kalonji for Diabetes?

There are fewer kalonji seeds side effects -  hypoglycemia and allergies.

5. Is Kalonji Safe for Long-Term Use in Diabetes?

Yes, it is safe, particularly taking its powder, seed, or medicine form under a doctor’s guidance.