10 Health Benefits Of Ammi Visnaga (Khella)

Ammi visnaga, also known as khella, has health benefits such as reducing hypertension and alleviating respiratory issues.

Its medicinal properties, including coumarin and furanocoumarins, help relax blood vessels, improve breathing, and reduce inflammation.

People with high blood pressure can benefit from its ability to lower systolic pressure, while those with respiratory conditions like bronchitis or asthma can experience relief from its expectorant properties, ultimately improving their quality of life.

This article explains in details the 10 best health benefits of Ammi visnaga .

1. Reduces inflammation

Ammi visnaga reduces inflammation because it contains bioactive compounds that inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and enzymes.

These compounds, including coumarins and sesquiterpenes, have been shown to suppress the activity of COX-2, a key enzyme involved in inflammation.

As a result, khella has been traditionally used to treat various inflammatory conditions, including arthritis, bronchitis, and asthma, with promising results in reducing inflammation and improving symptoms.

2. Relieves edema

Ammi visnaga relieves edema because it has a unique ability to inhibit the 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase enzyme.

This enzyme plays a significant role in the conversion of inactive cortisone to its active form, cortisol, which in turn promotes water retention and swelling in the body.

By inhibiting this enzyme, khella reduces fluid accumulation, making it an effective natural remedy for treating edema.

3. Eases glaucoma symptoms

Ammi visnaga eases glaucoma symptoms because it acts as a natural diuretic, increasing urine production and thereby reducing intraocular pressure (IOP), a primary factor in glaucoma progression.

Its bioactive compounds, particularly falcarinol, have been shown to stimulate the release of aqueous humor, helping to lower IOP and alleviate glaucoma-related eye pressure.

This natural approach may alleviate symptoms and potentially prevent further damage to the optic nerve.

4. Lowers blood pressure

Ammi visnaga lowers blood pressure because it has a unique mechanism of action that inhibits the enzyme 11-beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11-beta-HSD2).

This enzyme is responsible for converting cortisone to its active form, aldosterone, in the kidneys, which leads to water and salt retention and increased blood pressure.

By inhibiting this enzyme, khella reduces the levels of aldosterone, leading to decreased blood pressure.

5. Treats conjunctivitis

Ammi visnaga treats conjunctivitis because its alkaloids, particularly khellin, have anti-inflammatory and antispasmodic properties.

These compounds reduce swelling and pain in the eyes, alleviating symptoms of conjunctivitis. The plant's ability to relax smooth muscle cells and improve blood circulation also helps to clear up discharge and promote healing in the affected area.

This natural remedy has been used for centuries to effectively treat conjunctivitis.

6. Relaxes smooth muscles

Ammi visnaga relaxes smooth muscles because of its unique bioactive compounds, including coumarins and sesquiterpenes.

These compounds interfere with the contraction and relaxation of smooth muscle cells, resulting in a significant reduction in muscle tone.

This relaxation of smooth muscles has been observed in various studies, including research on the plant's use in traditional medicine for conditions such as asthma and hypertension.

7. Blocks serotonin receptors

Ammi visnaga blocks serotonin receptors because it contains a unique bioactive compound, khellin.

Research has shown that khellin acts as a competitive antagonist at various serotonin receptor subtypes, including 5-HT2A and 5-HT3. This antagonistic effect can contribute to the plant's potential therapeutic applications, including the treatment of respiratory disorders and anxiety disorders.

Khellin's interaction with serotonin receptors may also help to reduce inflammation.

8. Eases menstrual cramps

Ammi visnaga eases menstrual cramps because of its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties.

It has been used in traditional medicine to relieve cramps, bloating, and other symptoms associated with menstruation. By relaxing the uterine muscles and reducing inflammation, khella helps to alleviate discomfort and pain, promoting a more comfortable and manageable menstrual experience.

Its natural properties make it a popular herbal remedy for menstrual issues.

9. Stimulates digestion

Ammi visnaga stimulates digestion because its bioactive compounds, particularly sesquiterpenes, have a synergistic effect on digestive enzymes.

The sesquiterpenes in khella increase the activity of gastric and intestinal enzymes, enhancing protein digestion and absorption. This results in improved nutrient assimilation and better overall gut health.

Regular consumption of khella is also believed to alleviate digestive issues, such as bloating and gas.

10. Soothes respiratory issues

Ammi visnaga soothes respiratory issues because its bioactive compounds, such as alkaloids and terpenoids, have anti-inflammatory and bronchodilatory properties.

These compounds help to relax bronchial muscles, reducing airway obstruction and making breathing easier.

Additionally, khella's anti-inflammatory effects help to reduce inflammation in the airways, providing relief from symptoms such as wheezing, coughing, and shortness of breath.