Also known as Ammi visnaga L.
Khella is a species of flowering plant in the carrot family known by many common names, including toothpick plant, toothpick weed, bisnaga. It is native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa and has been used as a herbal medicine dating back to ancient Egypt times.
NOTE: It should not be confused with its less commonly used relative, bishop’s weed (Aegopodium podagraria) also known as ground elder)
Khella contains a compound called khellin. Normally, the entry of calcium ions into smooth muscle cells leads to muscle contraction. By blocking this influx, khellin causes relaxation of the bronchial muscles, thereby dilating the airways which allows easier breathing. This mechanism is particularly beneficial in conditions such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
It has the same effect on heart muscles. By preventing calcium ions from entering the vascular smooth muscle cells, khellin induces relaxation of the blood vessels, leading to a reduction in vascular resistance and subsequently lowering blood pressure.
Conditions khella can help to treat
- Asthma
- Bladder and kidney stones
- Diabetes
- Heart disorders
- High blood pressure
- Menstrual problems
- Psoriasis
- Skin disorders (vitiligo)
- Respiratory disorders
- Urinary tract infection
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