Basil (Sabja) Seeds-Benefits, Nutrition, Side Effects

Basil seeds or Sabja seeds are popularly known as Sweet Tulsi (Ocimum Bascilicum) and India is considered as its place of origin. The tiny black seeds have immense power in controlling blood pressure, blood glucose and many other health issues. It is often confused with chia seeds, but both are different. Basil seeds or sabja seeds have different names in different regions of India. Sabja or basil seeds were extensively used in Ayurveda, it was an herbal medicine to treat cough, cold, and intestinal worms.

Let’s get familiar with the nutritional portfolio of basil (sabja) seeds.

Notably 100g of basil (sabja) seeds contain:

• Protein –  15g
• Carbohydrate –  64g
• Fiber –  22.5g
• Lipid –  14g
• Iron -2.3mg
• Zinc –  1.6mg
• Magnesium –  31.5mg
• Calorie –  440

Potent Health Benefits of Basil (Sabja) seeds:

Keep Cough and Cold Away

From ancient times, basil seeds have been used as an anti-cough and anti-cold. It helps in reducing the symptoms. For the antispasmodic properties basil seeds are used against whooping cough plus they strengthen body immunity.

Also Read:- Best Basil Seeds Brands

Basil (Sabja) Seeds for Weight Loss

Basil seeds carry very low calories and high nutrients. Besides there are presence of Alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) in basil seeds which comes from omega-3 fatty acids. These ingredients help in fat fat-burning process and losing weight. Also, Basil seeds help in solving digestive issues.

Reduces Blood Glucose

Basil seeds prove really effective in controlling blood glucose, especially with type 2 diabetes. Even doctors recommend basil seeds to diabetic patients right before meals.

Also Read:- Black Tea Benefits

Rejuvenates Skin Health

A good amount of collagen, antioxidants and flavonoids are found in basil seeds. These properties are effective in improving skin health.

Basil Seeds Against Hair Loss

The antioxidant properties in basil seeds stimulate the growth of new hairs. It also reduces the oxidative stress in hair scalp which may subsequently lead to premature hair loss.

Improves Brain Health

Basil seeds are loaded with various important minerals like calcium, magnesium, iron, potassium, and folic acids. These minerals play a significant role in energizing brain activity. It also helps in hormonal secretion. Minerals like calcium have an important role in strengthening bone and dental health.

Manages Cholesterol

Enzymes like Pectin present in basil seeds lower the blood cholesterol by obstructing the cholesterol absorption in the gut. People with high cholesterol are advised to consume 30 grams of basil seeds daily, and it shows a significant drop in their cholesterol level.

Also Read:- Benefits of Chia Seeds For Weight loss

A Natural Body Cooling Agent

Basil seeds have natural cooling properties thus they help in soothing from scorching heat of peak summer.  That’s why basil seeds are very famous in countries like India. Additionally, basil seeds give a very good flavor when added to various drinks such as lemonades, milkshakes, coconut water, lassi, etc.

Regularizes Constipation and Acidity

Basil seeds reduce the HCL production in our stomachs. Basil seeds naturally detoxify our body and it makes our bowel movement smooth. It has volatile oil which relieves gas from our gastrointestinal tract. Basil seeds work as a natural stomach cleanser, thus they reduce constipation and bloating.

Probable Effects of Basil (Sabja) Seeds

Keeping in mind the benefits of basil seeds, the few side effects may seem very miniscule. Those are as follows:

• If taken in too much quantity it may lead to diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting, abdominal pain in some cases.
• May not be helpful to pregnant women as excessive amounts of basil can lower estrogen hormone levels. Here doctor’s advice is required.
• Soaked basil seeds are always for children as well as adults. So, make sure to consume an adequate amount of water. And do not eat dry basil seeds else it may choke on you.

Various Ways to Eat Basil (Sabja) seeds

There is no restricted way to eat basil seeds. You just have to include into your diet to enjoy its numerous health benefits. You can simply drink soaked basil seeds water right in the morning. As it has a bland flavor, people like to mix it in smoothies, yogurt, pudding, bread and cakes, and even use it as a salad dressing.

Conclusion

Basil seeds are anyway helpful for our health. There is nothing to raise questions on its nutritional values. So, go ahead to include basil seeds in your diet