Herbs - Khella (Amni visnaga ).

What Is It?

This is a herb not commonly used today, but has a history of use as far back as ancient Egypt and was also used in Arabian medicine. The seeds contain the key medicinal components.

Action

It contains a compound called khellin which appears to be able to stimulate repigmentation of the skin, by increasing sensitivity of melanocyte cells to sunlight - a unique property. It is therefore very useful in the treatment of vitiligo. Another compound called sodium cromoglycate, acts as a potent vasodilator. Khella is antispasmodic to the respiratory and cardiovascular system.

Uses

Historically it has been used to treat a number of conditions including:

• Allergies
• Asthma
• Bronchial asthma
• Heart problems - angina, myocardial infarction
• Kidney, gall bladder and bladder problems
• Psoriasis
• Vitiligo
• Whooping cough

Other information

It is not commonly available, a qualified herbalist will be able to provide a preparation suitable to your needs.

Khella is thought to be an alternative to steroids for use when treating children.

Cautions

• The safety of khella during pregnancy and lactation has not been sufficiently studied and should therefore be avoided.



• At the time of writing there are no well -known side effects, drug interactions or contra-indications.

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