Basil seeds are black seeds that offer a lot of immense health benefits. These seeds look very similar to chia seeds and are rich in protein, carbs and essential fats. In addition, the basil seeds are packed with a lot of fibre.
Here are some of the amazing health benefits of basil seeds:
- Controls Blood Sugar Levels
Basil seeds help to slow down your body’s metabolism, and it controls the conversion of carbs into glucose. Therefore, it is considered the best for diabetic patients.
- Treats Acidity and Heartburn
These seeds help counteract the acidic effect of hydrochloric acids in the body, which later relieves the painful acidity and heartburn. It happens because when the seeds are consumed after being soaked in water, the water content in the seeds helps to soothe the stomach lining and relieve the body from the painful burning sensation.
- Good for skin
The benefit of basil seeds for the skin can be increased by adding crushed seeds to coconut oil and applying it to the affected area. This process can help in treating skin ailments such as psoriasis and eczema. Basil seeds also have a lot of other benefits. For example, the regular consumption of these seeds can help your body secrete collagen, which forms the skin’s cells.
Basil seeds and basil leaves can be very beneficial in maintaining healthy hair because they are full of iron, vitamin K, and protein. This is all that is needed for long, thick and strong hair. In addition, the antioxidant properties present in the seeds help to detoxify the body.
- Prevents Constipation
Regular consumption of the basil seeds helps to regulate smooth bowel movement. The seeds contain an oil that relieves gas from your gastrointestinal tract and later acts as a cleanser for the stomach.
- Helps reduce Weight Loss
Basil seeds contain alpha-linolenic acid that helps cut down bad fat and results in reducing body weight and fat mass. Through the consumption of alpha-linolenic acid, food intake can be decreased. In addition, the acid helps to boost energy.
As the seeds are full of fibre and contain alpha-linolenic acid, they can make you feel full for a long time and can prevent you from unwanted cravings.
Take a cup full of warm water and soak two teaspoons of the seeds. Let it soak well for 20 minutes. After getting soaked, you can directly consume it. You can also sprinkle these seeds in soups and salad.
Side Effects Of Basil Seeds
If the consumption of seeds goes in a limited quantity, they cannot pose any threat, but having an excess of these seeds can have some side effects. The daily recommended dosage is only 1-2 tablespoons, and it can also depend from person to person.
Most healthcare professionals do not recommend basil seeds to pregnant women and even children because the seeds can be choked if they are not mixed well in water. In addition, the seeds are believed to reduce the level of estrogen in the body. Hence, it is not recommended for pregnant women.
