Khella
Latin name: Ammi visnaga
A Remedy For
Khella is also used for chest pain (angina), irregular
heartbeat, asthma, whooping cough, and abdominal cramps. In the
treatment of kidney stones, it helps relax the ducts to the
bladder, allowing the stones to pass. Externally, it's used on
wounds, inflammation, and poisonous bites. For none of these
problems, however, has its effectiveness ever been definitively
proven.
What It Is; Why It Works
Khella combats spasms in the smooth muscles that line the walls
of blood vessels, bronchial airways, and other tubes and ducts.
It improves circulation in the heart muscle and gives a mild
boost to the heart's pumping action.
Khella is native to the Mediterranean, and is cultivated in
the United States, Mexico, Chile, and Argentina. The plant is
about 5 feet tall, with flowers and small fruit. Its medicinal
value lies in the dried, ripe fruit.
Avoid If...
There are no known medical conditions that preclude the use of
Khella.
Special Cautions
Limit your exposure to sunlight and use a sunscreen when taking
Khella; it can make you sensitive to sunlight.
In a few people, this herb causes jaundice (yellowing of the
skin and eyes). Long-term use can bring on queasiness, dizziness,
loss of appetite, headache, and sleep disorders.
Possible Drug Interactions
No drug interactions have been reported.
Special Information If You Are
Pregnant or Breastfeeding
No harmful effects are known.
How to Prepare
Available in extract form.
Typical Dosage
Potency of commercial preparations may vary. Follow the
manufacturer's directions.
Overdosage
Very high dosages of Khella (more than 100 milligrams of the
active ingredient) can cause the same symptoms brought on by long-term
use, and can also lead to liver problems.