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Table of Contents
Sabja or Basil seeds are extensively used for seasoning. They add a unique flavour to food. But did you know that Sabja seeds or falooda seeds, are not just terrific for seasoning or growing new basil plants but also loaded with health benefits. These tiny black seeds that resemble black sesame seeds can give flax seeds and chia seeds a run for their money when it comes to nutritional benefits. They are extracted from Sweet Basil (and not Holy Basil that is more prevalent in India and extremely popular for its ability to bolster immunity).
And you should make it a point to include these humble Sabja seeds in your diet. Here are a few ways Sabja seeds will transform your health.
Friendly Reminder: The information shared here is for educational purposes only and the reader should consult a registered medical practitioner before implementing any changes to their health routine.
Did You Know?
Sabja seeds are power-packed with loads of nutrition and immunity-boosting properties. They are low in calories and contain 42% carbohydrates, 20% proteins and 25% good fats. They are high in fibre and a very good source of Omega-3 fatty acids. They also contain good amounts of minerals like potassium, manganese, copper, calcium and magnesium, and vitamins C and folates. So, they can be rightly called wonder seeds.
Nutritional Value for Basil Seeds (per 1 tablespoon or per 13 grams)
Drinks including sabja seeds provide great relief from the scorching heat of summer. Sabja seeds are known to reduce body heat and have a soothing effect on the stomach. These seeds can be part of a variety of drinks like lemonades, coconut water, coconut milk, milkshakes, smoothies, yoghurt etc.
Sabja seeds were proven to have eminent anti-diabetic potential. Sabja seeds are high in fibre. When sabja seeds were regularly given to diabetics just prior to meals, it prevented the spike in blood glucose levels. Thus, sabja seeds were found to be useful in maintaining blood sugar levels in patients with type 2 Diabetes.
Also Read: 4 Best Foods for Diabetics
People who have been diagnosed with diabetes need to be very particular about what they eat in order to keep their blood sugar levels steady. Sabja seeds have been found to possess anti-diabetes properties. In several studies, it was observed that if people consume Sabja seeds just before a meal, their blood sugar levels does not shoot up after the meal. By keeping blood sugar levels steady after a meal, Sabja seeds can help manage diabetes better.
Sabja seeds are rich in soluble fibre. When these seeds are added to our diet with a good quantity of water, they absorb water and thus help in drawing water to our gut. This results in the softening of faeces and promotes daily bowel movement. Thus, people suffering from constipation get tremendous relief by making sabja a part of their daily diet.
Sabja seeds contain pectin among many other soluble fibres. Pectin is proven to have prebiotic benefits. It is thus important in modulating the composition and metabolism of the complex gut microbiota and thereby increasing the number of good bacteria in the gut.
This also helps in relieving acidity to a great extent.
Sabja seeds are high in soluble dietary fibre and help a person feel full and satisfied. They also regulate our bowel movement and thus help in cleansing our body from accumulated toxins.
The soluble fermentable fibre pectin is helpful in increasing satiety and decreasing caloric intake and adiposity while on a high-fat diet. It also produces a fermentation environment more likely to promote hindgut health.
Reduction in calorie intake thus leads to weight loss.
Sabja seeds contain protein and soluble fibre. Both these nutrients stay in your digestive system for a long time. This means that when you consume Sabja seeds, you won’t feel hungry for a long period of time. No appetite means no cravings for unhealthy snacks. This helps you stay in shape or lose weight.
High fibre content also ensures that the bowel movement is regularized. Constipation happens when you don’t drink enough water and the large intestine is forced to suck water out of the faeces. But when you consume fibres and lots of water, soluble fibres draw water to the large intestines and this softens the stool.
People with heart conditions are especially recommended to consume high-fibre foods because straining while clearing their bowels puts pressure on the heart.
Sabja seeds are a rich source of iron, calcium and magnesium. Calcium and magnesium are required for the optimal functioning of muscles and bone. Iron is needed to maintain haemoglobin levels, which is the protein required to transport oxygen in the blood.
Sabja seeds are the best source to increase iron and calcium levels in case of deficiency.
Sabja seeds contain an average of 2.5 grams of fat per 1 tablespoon. Of this fat, about half – 1,240 mg per tablespoon – is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), an omega-3 fat.
The beneficial effects of omega-3 fatty acids include effects on lipids, blood pressure, cardiac and vascular function, eicosanoids, coagulation, and immunological responses. They thus decrease the risk of coronary heart disease, hypertension and stroke, and their complications.
Also Read: 7 Foods That Help Lower Blood Pressure
Sabja seeds are a good source of plant chemicals like flavonoids and polyphenols. Flavonoids are the largest group of phytonutrients, known for their anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, anti-mutagenic and anti-carcinogenic properties coupled with their capacity to modulate key cellular enzyme function.
Having a diet rich in flavonoids may reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease.
Sabja seeds have proven anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. They are helpful in curing mouth ulcers. They can be used as a mouth freshener. These seeds also help to combat various dental issues like bad breath, plaque and cavities.
Pectin, a type of soluble fibre present in sabja seeds may lower the cholesterol levels in our body. It prevents the absorption of cholesterol in our gut.
Also Read: What Are the Side Effects of High Cholesterol?
Sabja seeds have a calming effect on the body as well as the mind. They reduce stress, tension, and anxiety, leaving us to feel happier.
Sabja seeds are rich in flavonoids, tannins and terpenoids. Their anti-oxidant activity is also shown to have memory-enhancing effects in some.
Based on my knowledge, basil has remarkable medicinal properties and is also known as the “King of herbs.” Basil has been recognized for centuries for its extensive applications in medicine, cosmetics, and various industries. It holds great potential in promoting health and well-being.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, B.A.M.S, M.D (Ayu)
Sabja seeds are rich in protein. This protein helps in reducing hair fall, better hair growth, and improved hair volume. You can also get rid of dandruff with sabja seed hair oil. Combine the oil you use with sabja seed powder, massage your scalp with it and leave overnight for beautiful and strong hair.
Sabja seeds naturally detoxify the body and clear our internal system. This keeps our skin looking flawless keeping acne or any kind of breakouts away.
Sabja seeds have anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties which protect us from skin infections. They are also used in the treatment of eczema and psoriasis. Also, since sabja seeds are rich in vitamins and minerals, they give a natural glow to our skin.
Also Read: 7 Home Remedies for Glowing Skin
Soak around 2 teaspoons of Sabja seeds in a cup of warm water for around 15 minutes. They swell and a translucent grey film coating develops around each black seed, as they increase in size.
You can now make these seeds a part of a variety of drinks like lemonade, milkshakes, coconut water, smoothies, buttermilk, soups and so on. You can also add them to ice creams, pasta and salads for a nice crunchy taste.
Ideally, you should not consume more than 2 teaspoons of sabja seeds every day.
Sabja seeds are often confused with chia seeds. Some notable differences between chia and sabja seeds are:
Also Read: 8 Health Benefits of Flax Seeds
Sabja seeds may well be called a ‘superfood’. These tiny seeds can help you improve your health in multiple ways. So go on and get yourself some Sabja seeds right away!
Sabja seeds are a natural and vegetarian source of protein. You can consume these seeds daily to strengthen bones, muscles, and skin and for stimulating the production of enzymes, hormones and other body chemicals for better functioning of the body. However, if you have any medical condition, it is best to consult the doctor and listen to his or her advice.
Yes, you may buy sabja seeds from local or online stores. They are easily available.
Sabja seed oil and extracts can slow down blood clotting. It is not recommended for consumption if you recently had surgery or if you are wounded. If you have a scheduled surgery, you must stop using sabja seeds at least two weeks before the surgery.
Yes, sabja seeds, also known as basil seeds, are good for health. They are rich in fiber, antioxidants, and omega-3 fatty acids, which aid in digestion, weight management, and overall wellness.
There’s no direct evidence linking sabja seeds to acne. However, excessive consumption might contribute to acne for some individuals due to potential hormonal effects or allergies. It’s best to consume them in moderation and observe any personal reactions.
Sabja seeds are believed to have a cooling effect on the body according to traditional Ayurvedic practices. They are often used in drinks like falooda during hot weather to help cool down the body. However, scientific evidence supporting this specific claim is limited, and individual responses may vary.
Sabja seeds can aid in weight loss as they are high in fiber, which promotes feelings of fullness and helps control appetite. Additionally, their low-calorie content makes them a good addition to a weight loss diet. However, they are not a magic solution and should be consumed as part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle for effective weight management.
Yes, sabja seeds can typically be consumed in moderation during pregnancy. However, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before adding them to your diet to ensure they are suitable for your individual circumstances.
There’s no scientific evidence to suggest that sabja seeds can delay periods. However, some anecdotal claims and traditional practices exist. If you have concerns about menstrual irregularities, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and appropriate management.
Sabja seeds are generally considered beneficial for managing uric acid levels due to their anti-inflammatory properties. However, individual responses may vary, so it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the best approach for managing uric acid levels and incorporating sabja seeds into your diet.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
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Iam undergo recently surgery for gallbladder stone and iam also suffering from IBD since last 8 months . due heavy dose of medicine my weight has increased so in this situation can i take sabja seeds for weight reduce.
Hi ua post was very useful….
I have a question, if sabja seeds taken in excess
And stomach pains
What can be done now to reduce the effect of excess intake of sabja seeds????
Thank you for your sharing the health benefits of Sabja Seeds. I am starting to eat 1/4 tsp in the morning and 1/4 tsp in the evening.