Khella

Christopher Hobbs:

“Khella is a traditional Egyptian herb that has an antispasmodic effect on the bronchi and is thus a valuable asthma remedy, particularly as a preventive. It also affects the coronary vessels and is used as a preventive by angina sufferers, as well as having an antispasmodic effect on the ureter, possibly facilitating the passage of kidney stones. The herb and its preparations have also been recommended to ease painful cramps associated with the menstrual cycle, for which it is taken 4-5 days before the expected onset of symptoms through the end of the cycle.
Khella is also used internally and externally against vitiligo.

Khella has a taste of BITTER, AROMATIC and a temperature of WARM.”

Historical Uses

Historically, Khella has been used in Egypt and other Mediterranean cultures as a folk remedy for conditions like asthma, bronchitis, and kidney stones. Its main active compounds, especially khellin, were observed to help relax smooth muscles, easing breathing and aiding in the passage of kidney stones.

Modern Clinical Uses

Today, herbalists and naturopaths primarily recommend Khella for respiratory conditions such as asthma and bronchospasm, as well as for cardiovascular support and mild angina relief. It is also used to alleviate urinary discomfort, particularly in passing kidney stones, due to its antispasmodic effects.

Chemistry

Khella contains several biologically active compounds, including khellin, visnagin, and visnadin. Khellin and visnagin are furanocoumarins, which are known for their ability to inhibit certain enzymes and act as vasodilators. These compounds are key to Khella’s antispasmodic and vasodilatory effects.

Pharmacology

Khellin, one of the primary compounds, is a smooth muscle relaxant and mild vasodilator, impacting blood vessels and respiratory pathways. Visnadin is also a vasodilator and has been explored for its potential in angina relief. Both of these active ingredients affect calcium channels, leading to muscle relaxation and improved blood flow.

Clinical Trials

Few clinical trials have been conducted, but some studies support the use of khellin for respiratory and cardiovascular support. Clinical trials have indicated potential benefits for asthma and angina relief, though research is limited and more studies are needed to confirm these effects and establish standardized dosing.

Summary

Khella has a strong tradition in herbal medicine, mainly for respiratory and cardiovascular support. While modern research supports some of its historical uses, especially due to its antispasmodic effects, further clinical trials are necessary to establish standardized, safe dosing and confirm its efficacy across various conditions.

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