KHELLA, Ammi visnaga

Latin name : Ammi visnaga

Distilled part: seeds

Origin : Morocco

Properties: antiallergic, anticoagulant, preventive antihistamine (prevents the degranulation of mast cells), antispasmodic, bronchodilator and coronary dilator

Indications: allergies, allergic rhinitis, hay fever, asthma, hepatic and renal colic, inflammatory colitis

Contraindications: None at physiological doses.

Our expert’s advice

AMMI VISNAGA (Khella), the Asthmatics’ Friend

Author: Maurice Nicole, NDA

Ammi visnaga is a plant native to southern Morocco, Egypt, and the Mediterranean region. It is an umbellifer that closely resembles the wild carrot. Mentioned in the Ebers Papyrus, dating back to around 1,500 B.C., Ammi visnaga was used by the ancient Egyptians to treat kidney stones and renal colic.

The plant’s true value did not become apparent until 1945, when Anrep, a pharmacologist working in Egypt, discovered the powerful antispasmodic action of khellin on the bronchi, coronary arteries, and ureter, making it a remedy of choice for asthma, angina pectoris, and renal colic.

Unlike conventional asthma medications, the antispasmodic effect of Ammi visnaga lasts relatively long, averaging 6 hours. Another advantage is that it has a cumulative effect, known as “khellinization.” Three daily doses spread throughout the day and an additional dose at bedtime are sufficient to ensure good therapeutic control and prevent nighttime attacks.

Examples of formulas

ASTHMA

• Ammi visnaga 40%
• Artemisia dracunculus 30%
• Tanacetum annuum 30%

DOSAGE FOR ADULTS:

• Rectal route: 250 mg essential oil per suppository. 1 suppository at bedtime + 1 suppository 3 times daily if necessary
• Oral route (during an attack): 1 drop under the tongue, repeated every 5 minutes.
• Topical use: 5 drops on the wrists and solar plexus at bedtime. Repeat 3 times daily if necessary; in case of an attack, repeat every ½ hour

Warning: Do not stop using your inhaler

HEPATIC, INTESTINAL, OR RENAL COLIC

• Ammi visnaga 15%
• Artemisia dracunculus 30%
• Chamaemelum nobile 25%
• Citrus reticulata (fe) 15%
• Cananga odorata 15%

DOSAGE:

• Topical application: 5 to 10 drops of the mixture, applied directly to the affected area. Repeat every ½ hour until symptoms improve
• Oral use: 5 drops in ½ teaspoon of vegetable oil, every 15 minutes for 1 hour

CHEST PAIN

• Ammi visnaga 100%

DOSAGE:

• Oral use: 1 drop under the tongue every 5 minutes, until symptoms improve

Warning: This does not exempt you from calling emergency services! And above all, focus on prevention!

CONTRAINDICATIONS: Photosensitizing. Avoid sun exposure for 8 hours following topical application.

Your Hunzaroma newsletter was written by Maurice Nicole, ND.A, Institut d’aromathérapie scientifique