Basil Seeds: 7 Surprising Benefits Of
Sabja Seeds
Sabja seeds are popularly
used in Ayurvedic and Chinese Medicine and have many more
health benefits that you may have not known. Here are some sabja seeds benefits:
1. Helps in Weight Loss
Sabja seeds are known to be rich in alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which comes
from high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids present in the seeds. These acids
help in boosting the fat burning metabolism in the body. It is also full of fibre, so
keeps your stomach satisfied for longer and prevents unwanted cravings. You can
add it to a bowl of yoghurt or sprinkle some in a fruit salad as a pre-meal
snack to control appetite.
2. Reduces Body Heat
In some Asian countries like Thailand, sabja seeds are used to make a drink
along with water, sugar, honey and sometimes coconut milk. It is a great drink to sip on to beat the
scorching summer heat. They are one of the best body coolants. They are known
to lower your body heat, which is why people often add them to refreshing
drinks like nimbu paani, sherbets or milkshakes.
3. Controls Blood Sugar Levels
Sabja seeds are considered to be good for type 2 diabetics as it is known to
keep a check on blood sugar levels. They slow down the metabolism of your
body and thus controls the conversion of carbohydrates into glucose. You could simply mix
soaked basil seeds in a glass of milk and have it for breakfast. It makes for a
wonderful healthy drink.
4. Relieves Constipation and Bloating
Sabja seeds are known to naturally detox your body and regulate smooth bowel
movements. What really works is having a glass of milk with some sabja seeds
before going to bed for a couple of days. It acts as a stomach cleanser.
They contain volatile oils that help in relieving gas from the gastrointestinal tract and aids in digestion.
5. Treats Acidity and Heartburn
Sabja seeds soothe stomach burn and their diuretic functions flush out
the toxins from your body. They neutralise the acidic
effect of HCL in the body and bring relief. Soaked sabja seeds are full of
water and they help in soothing the stomach lining and thus relieves the
burning sensation.
6. For Healthy Skin and Hair
Sabja seeds crushed into coconut oil and applied on affected areas help in
treating several skin infections like eczema and psoriasis. Crush the seeds, without soaking
it, in a cup of coconut oil and warm it for a few minutes before using. Eating
basil seeds regularly helps your body secrete collagen, which is required to form new skin cells as and
when they are damaged due to normal wear and tear. Sabja seeds are full of
iron, Vitamin K and protein. These minerals are essential for long and strong
hair. Protein and iron also promote hair growth and adds volume.
7. Cures Cough and Flu
Sabja seeds have an antispasmodic property, which means that they soothe
tension in the spasmatic muscles and relax them. This way they help in
controlling whooping cough. They strengthen the immunity of the body. Flavonoids
like vicenin, orientin and beta carotene fortify the body’s defense system.
A word of caution. Children and pregnant women should avoid consuming sabja
seeds. Young kids could choke on these seeds, if they are not mixed well with
water. In case of pregnant women, these seeds are known to lower down the
levels of estrogen in the body. It is best to consult your
doctor if you’re pregnant or suffering from any other ailments before adding
sabja seeds to your diet.
Courtesy: NDTVFood
