Uses of Ammi Visnaga Essential Oil

Ammi visnaga essential oil is used therapeutically in herbal formulas, ayurvedic preparations and incense bouquets. A pale yellow liquid characterized by a sweet, herbaceous odor and an earthy-spicy undertone, Ammi visnaga essential oil is produced through steam distillation of khella seeds. The essential oil contains terpenes, terpene alcohols, coumarin and other compounds.

Therapeutic Uses

• Ammi visnaga helps relieve asthma attacks.

  Traditionally, Ammi visnaga has been known as a remedy for treating kidney stones because it relaxes the ureter muscles and reduces pain. Additionally, it possesses lithotrophic actions, which means that it aids in the breakdown and release of the stones. It promotes healthy gums and teeth. In Israel, Ammi visnaga is also used for the treatment of diabetes. Perhaps most well known is Ammi visnaga's ability to dilate coronary blood vessels and relax smooth muscles in the bronchial tissue. These actions help prevent and relieve allergic bronchial asthma in addition to emphysema.

Combinations for Use

• Ammi visnaga is used synergistically with other essential oils.

  Ammi visnaga essential oil has a unique and sometimes unpleasing aroma for some individuals. In some cases, individuals are able to combine this essential oil with other, more pleasant aromatics. Lavender, chamomile, tarragon or sweet marjoram are examples of antispasmodic herbs that have generally pleasing aromas. Combining Ammi visnaga with these additional oils for topical preparations helps soothe the mind and reduces stress associated with asthma and bronchitis. When used orally, Ammi visnaga has been combined with blue tansy, thyme, rosemary and other herbs for respiratory ailments.

Topical Versus Oral Preparations

• Consult with a qualified health professional before using Ammi visnaga.

  A review of the literature on PubMed.gov shows little research on the essential oil of Ammi visnaga. Though the topical application of this oil allows for effective transdermal drug delivery, there is contradicting evidence regarding this use. Jeanne Rose, an expert on aromatherapy and herbs, indicates it is expensive, ineffective and largely irritating to the skin. Research from the mid-1900s, such as the 1950 publication in "JAMA" by R.H. Rosenman and colleagues, has largely consisted of investigations on oral preparations of the khella constituent khellin, which is also known as visammin.

Cautions for Use

• Use Ammi visnaga with caution.

  Generally safe in low doses, Ammi visnaga has been used in traditional herbal medicine in the Middle East for years. When taken in large doses or chronically used, however, Ammi visnaga has the ability to cause liver damage. It is a strong photosensitizer and individuals using this oil sometimes notice changes in skin discoloration, as in a sunburn or rash. Ammi visnaga essential oil also contains coumarins, which are also found in some blood thinning medications. Consult with a qualified health professional before using.