Ammi visnaga / الخلة البلدي
Background
- Khilla is an annual herb, 30-150 cm high, slightly aromatic of the Anise Family (Apiaceae).
- Widespread in the Mediterranean and western Asia, found also in North & South America and Europe.
- In U.A.E it is cultivated in private farms.
Part(s) Used
Seeds, rays of umbel
Traditional and Medicinal Uses
Khilla Seeds is used to treat congestion of prostate gland, urinary diseases, respiratory problems, relax the coronary arteries, and helps to improve blood supply to the heart muscle and thereby eases angina. The dry umbel rays used as tooth picks. It has been used as/for:
Diuretic |
Carminative |
Antispasmodic |
Vitiligo & Psoriasis |
Vasodilator |
Dental Care |
Asthma |
Renal Stones |
How Much Do We Know?
Ammi visnaga and Ammi majus are each a species of the genius Ammi. They look similar in some ways yet quite different in other ways; and should not be intermixed nor used alternatively.
What Do We Know About Safety?
- Possibly unsafe when used orally in high doses or for an extended duration.
- High doses of Khilla or use over an extended period of time can cause increases in liver enzymes and possible liver damage
- There is insufficient reliable information available about its safety when used topically.
Using Khilla by
Mouth
A typical dose of Khilla is an amount that provides 20 mg of the khellin constituent per day.
Topical
A spray containing khellin 0.005% for 12 months
Special Precautions & Warnings
Pregnancy
Possibly unsafe when used orally. The active constituent, khellin, has uterine stimulant activity
Breast feeding
Insufficient reliable information available; avoid using.
Keep in Mind
- Do not hesitate to speak with your health care provider before starting to use any supplements.
- Discuss potential benefits and risks, especially if you are suffering from any health problems.