Amazing Basil Seeds’ Health Benefits and Uses

The twins of chia seeds, and basil seeds, are extremely healthy to consume. They are sometimes mistaken for chia seeds because of their tiny black appearance. Another term coined for basil seeds is tukmaria or sabja seeds. The different names are not due to different makeup but just the language variation. For instance, English people call basil seeds, whereas Indians call them sabja seeds or tulsi.

Considering the appearance of basil seeds, it is hard to consume them as they are. The rough and hard texture makes swallowing complicated. Therefore, the best way to eat basil seeds is after soaking them in water, just like chia seeds. Soaked basil seeds are slimy and much tastier than dry ones.

Basil seeds are rich in nutrients like fats, carbohydrates and proteins but contain zero calories, making them perfect for weight-conscious people.

Nutritional Component of Basil Seeds

Basil seeds are healthy to consume but do not contain many nutrients like other seeds.

Macronutrients of basil Seeds

• Protein: 14.8 grams
• Carbohydrates: 63.8 grams
• Fats: 13.8 grams
• Fiber: 22.6 grams

Micronutrients of Basil Seeds

All the percentages are mentioned against RDI (Recommended Daily Intake)

• Magnesium: 31.55 mg
• Zinc: 1.58 mg
• Iron: 2.27 mg
• Vitamin A: 3%
• Vitamin K: 13%

Health Benefits of Basil Seeds

Balanced Sugar Levels

Sugar levels do not only increase by consuming much sugar but also due to consuming carbohydrates. This is because the complete breakdown of carbohydrates releases sugar molecules in the blood. Basil seeds can reduce the sugar content resulting from carbohydrates by reducing the catabolism of carbs. This reduces the overall sugar level in the body.

Treatment of Acidity and Heartburns

HCL is one of the strongest acids. It can easily burn any surface if exposed to it. Surprisingly, our stomach’s acidic makeup to digest food contains many hydrochloric acids, which can cause acidity and heartburn if not neutralized. Basil seeds have the power of neutralizing HCl in the stomach because of having higher water content from soaking. Therefore, they prevent acidity in the stomach.

Lower Chances of Constipation

Smooth bowel movements promote good gut health and reduce the levels of constipation. Basil seeds have two nutritional values that can help avoid this condition. First, dietary fibre in the sabja seeds lubricates the gut wall, which assists bowel movements. Secondly, fats in the basil seeds cleanse the gut walls by reducing gas in the stomach.

Weight Loss

Reduced appetite leads to reduced weight. Basil seeds have the property to keep the stomach full several hours after consumption. This is because of their fibrous content in them. Dietary fibre is the best component to reduce appetite and hence weight.

Cure for Colds

Disruptions in spasmodic muscles can lead to fever and cough. This disease is extremely contagious. It can easily spread and infect other people in no time. Therefore, its timely control is crucial. If you suffer from colds, take a teaspoon of basil seeds to relax your spasmodic muscles. This is because of the antispasmodic characteristic of basil seeds.

Diabetes Control

As mentioned earlier, basil seeds reduce the body’s sugar levels by speeding down the breakdown of carbohydrates. Therefore, it is not wrong to say that they can control diabetes in people and even prevent it.

Keeps Body Cool

Basil seeds are made part of many drinks and dishes like lemonade, pina colada, mint margarita, etc. because they are famous for cooling the body temperature and protecting from heat. Normally, we consume sabja seeds after soaking them in the water, which is why they tend to increase the body’s water content and lower the temperature.

Good Vision

Vitamin A powers the vision and improves the visionary health of the human body by strengthening retina muscles. Basil seeds contain an as good amount of vitamin A which is why they are perfect for keeping up with a good vision. Moreover, they reduce the chances of having cataracts and maintain sound eye health.

Uses of Basil Seeds

• The main use of basil seeds is to add flavour and thickness to different drinks. Mostly they are used in summer drinks such as milkshakes, lemonades, mint margaritas, etc.
• Another use of basil seeds is to make detox water. The antioxidant content of the seeds increases after soaking in water. Add these soaked sabja seeds to water, lemon and mint, and detox your body.
• Basil seeds are used to make healthy puddings and cereals. Soak the seeds in water overnight and enjoy your healthy breakfast the next morning.
• Apart from drinks, raw basil seeds are the perfect garnishing for salads and soups. They add crunch and flavour to them.
• Basil seeds can also be used as fodder for birds and other herbivores because they are completely harmless and super healthy.