Mondays, as alwasy here on the blog, we build your grocery list with one food, focusing on this month’s main topic - histamines.
So let’s dive in to another one of those best foods to help you move through histamine mediated troubles with a bit more ease.
NIGELLA SEED. Also known as kalonji.
Let’s get in to the reasons you may wish to add this to your grocery list…
BECAUSE GUT LOVE
Thymoquinone (TQ) is the main active component of nigella seeds, and nigella seed oil. Preliminary studies are showing some protective effect of this seed on the mucosal lining of the gut (ok in rats, but someday maybe in humans?). TQ helped lower histamine release in the gut where there was known gut leakage. What's at the root of histamine troubles for some? LEAKY GUT.
BECAUSE INFLAMMATION
Nigella is a brilliant anti-inflammatory herb. What's at the root of many troubles with histamines? Chronic inflammation! (2)
BECAUSE CALM
Nigella seed has been studied for its protective effect on the Central Nervous System. In mice (someday humans I hope!) studies show that this potent seed enhances the work of GABA, a calming neurotransmitter. (3)
Check out your favourite health food store to get a live, non-irradiated product in order to glean the benefits of this potent seed. Look for Nigella Seeds or nigella oil. They are sometimes labelled Kalonji seeds (traditional Indian name), black seeds, or Black Cumin Seeds. My fave spots where I see it all the time: at The Light Cellar, and Amaranth Whole Foods in Arbour Lake.
I have also seen nigella seeds in honey, from Shaganappi Grocer here in Calgary.
And hey - they grow into the most beautiful flowers. Annuals here in Calgary! Grow your own + harvest the seeds!
Aiming to Keep Well? Working through what you wonder might be histamine related issues? Need some help in feeling real good?
Get in touch by clicking here. Let’s meet up to start drawing up your road map to support you in both quantity and quality of life.
*This is not medical advice.