Health Guide

Khella

Khella (Ammi visnaga) is a flowering plant native to the Mediterranean, historically recognized for its medicinal properties. The active compound, khellin, acts as a smooth muscle relaxant. While not a common food item, it is a powerful herbal supplement. It is primarily known for supporting respiratory health by relaxing airways and aiding kidney health by easing the passage of stones. Think of it as nature's muscle relaxant for your internal organs.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Khella's Effect on Smooth Muscle

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Relaxation Level

Muscle State →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Relaxes Airways: Helps open up bronchial tubes, making breathing easier.
Eases Kidney Stones: Assists in passing kidney stones by relaxing the ureter.
Supports Vascular Health: Can help dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow.
Anti-Spasmodic: Calms muscle cramps and spasms in the gut or bladder.

Deep Dive

Khella works primarily through its active compound, khellin. This substance inhibits calcium channels in smooth muscle cells. Simply put, calcium triggers muscle contraction; by blocking some of that calcium, Khella allows the muscles to relax. This is why it is effective for conditions like asthma (relaxing airways) and kidney stones (relaxing the tubes the stones travel through). Historically, it was even used before modern inhalers to manage asthma attacks.

Natural Food Sources

Khella is an herbal supplement derived from the seeds of the Ammi visnaga plant. It is not found in common fruits or vegetables. It is consumed as a tea, tincture, or dried extract.

Supplementation

Dosage: Typically 100–200mg of dried extract daily, or 1 cup of seed tea.
Who should take it: Individuals with mild asthma or those prone to kidney stones (under medical supervision).
Best time to take: It acts quickly; take it when symptoms arise or to aid in stone passage.

Top Food Sources

Khella Seeds (Dried)

Used for tea or tincture

Khella Extract (Capsules)

Standardized to Khellin content

Topical Khellin Ointment

For skin conditions like psoriasis

Frequently Asked Questions

No. While they look similar, Queen Anne's Lace is *Daucus carota* (wild carrot). Khella is *Ammi visnaga*. Do not forage for Khella unless you are 100% certain of identification, as confusing it with poisonous hemlock can be fatal.

Yes. Khellin is sometimes used topically in ointments or via UV light therapy (PUVA) for psoriasis, as it slows down rapid skin cell growth. However, this requires specific medical treatment.

It helps relax the ureter, which can facilitate passing stones within hours to days. It does not dissolve the stone, but makes the passage less painful.

It is generally recommended for short-term use to address specific symptoms. Daily long-term use is not advised due to potential liver toxicity.

Safety & Side Effects

Khella increases photosensitivity (sensitivity to sunlight). Long-term use or high doses can lead to liver issues. It may interact with medications metabolized by the liver (CYP3A4 substrates). Avoid if you have liver disease or are pregnant. Always consult a doctor before using Khella, especially if you are taking prescription medications.

Scientific References

[1]Thompson, P. J., & Mitchell, D. M. (1982). 'Khellin in the treatment of asthma.' *Thorax*.
[2]Al-Khawajah, M. M. (1997). 'Khellin and ureteric colic.' *British Journal of Urology*.
[3]National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health (NCCIH) - Herbal Medicine Database.