You might have heard about basil seeds, thinking that it’s the latest fad in health and diet planning just like the Keto diet. But basil seeds have been used in medicinal remedies and cuisines for millennia. And you will be surprised to learn about the infinite benefits basil seeds alone could provide thereby helping you get your life back on track.
What are Basil Seeds?
Basil seeds are small, tear-shaped, black, dry, and crunchy lot that turns gelatinous when soaked in water, while their core retains its chewiness. They are the seeds of the basil plant, not holy basil plant, and have their home in India, also known as Ocimum basilicum in scientific terms; whereas the basil seeds have various other appellations too i.e. sabja seeds, tukhmalanga, tukmaria, etc. They are popularly utilized in desserts, cold beverages, and other exotic cuisines.
Where Can You Get Basil Seeds from?
You can find these seeds at an Asian grocery shop, or if you have the advantage of high-speed internet, shopping at Amazon.com or any other online store would be ideal. You can even grow them at your house; you just need a basil plant from which you can extract its stalks, let them dry, and softly break them to remove their seeds. It will be much more economical than getting the readily harvested ones from stores.
Let’s dive into how basil seeds can be a solution to all your problems.
Weight Loss and Health
Basil seeds are much-touted for their success in weight loss. One tablespoon of basil seeds constitutes 7 grams of fiber, which is 25% of your Reference Daily Intake (RDI). Most Americans don’t consume enough fiber daily, which is a power source for your colon and helps in the smooth running of the digestive tract. The soluble fiber in basil seeds, alongside pectin, nourishes gut bacteria, which subsequently protects you from critical gut problems like Diverticulitis. Also, consuming basil seeds keeps you satiated for long periods of time; hence, helping you lose those extra few pounds.
Though high-fiber intake may cause side effects like bloating, it’s better to gradually augment your fiber intake, in order to let your gut adjust to it.
Controlling Sugar Levels
In research published at National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), type 2 diabetes patients consumed 10 grams of basil seeds soaked in water after each meal for an entire month. Amazingly, their blood sugar level decreased by 17% after that month.
Foster Strong Bones
One tablespoon of basil seeds consists of 15% of recommended daily intake of calcium and 10% for magnesium and iron; cardinal for the excellent functioning of bones and muscles. In their daily diet, many people don’t get adequate intake of these minerals. Eating basil seeds could help boost bone density and lower the risk of osteoporosis and other bone diseases.
Cooling Off Your Body
Basil seeds are prevalently used in cold beverages in many Asian countries. Faluda is a delicious local drink in South Asia, made up of soaked basil seeds, vermicelli noodles, milk, and rose syrup. This drink is consumed during the hottest months since basil seeds help sustain low body temperature and soothe the stomach and liver. It also has a profound soothing impact on people suffering from fever, common cold or flu. Its antispasmodic properties can help alleviate dry cough. If you’re feeling particularly stressed, basil seeds also have a calming impact on your mind, reducing anxiety and stress levels.
You can use basil seeds in lemonade, your favorite smoothie shakes or iced milky tea. They serve to provide thick gelatinous texture, a very mild and pleasant floral scent, and a nutty flavor to your drink.
For Optimal Skin Care
A study published by the International Journal of Cosmetic Science assessed the antibacterial properties of essential oils from sweet, holy and hoary basil against a bacteria that causes acne. It turns out that essential oil from sweet basil had a mitigating effect on bacteria, hindering its growth, hence curing acne and achieving those clear skin goals.
Tackle Deadly Diseases
Basil seeds have plant compounds, including antioxidants that protect cells against free radicals. They have anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties. In an experiment, basil seed extract successfully destroyed deleterious bacteria, which then triggered the death of cancerous cells. Another study, linked the intake of basil seed to lower heart disease risk.
Basil Seeds are indeed a panacea for many diseases and afflictions you may encounter. They can be included in your diet plan, your drinks, or desserts, or you could just soak them in water and eat to sustain your good health. Though caution should be employed for pregnant women and children. Children may face the risk of choking. Whereas, basil seeds lower estrogen levels in the body, so pregnant women are urged to consult their doctor before consuming basil seeds.
