Add Basil Seeds Into Your Diet To Keep Your Gut, Skin and Body in Check

Last Updated:June 28, 2025, 11:17 IST

From naturally cooling your system to supporting digestion, sabja seeds have a lot to offer.

Sabja seeds, also known as basil seeds, have long been used in cooking and Ayurveda. Their benefits, however, aren’t just limited to Indian traditions, basil plants also hold a significant place in Chinese medicine.

They may look like sesame seeds, but these tiny black seeds are a powerhouse of health benefits. Especially in this season, basil seeds can truly be a game-changer for your body. From naturally cooling your system to supporting digestion, sabja seeds have a lot to offer.

What Do Basil Seeds Contain?

• Minerals: Basil seeds are rich in essential minerals like magnesium, iron, and calcium. Including them in your daily diet can help boost nutrient levels, especially for those following a vegan lifestyle.
• Fibre: They are high in fibre. Just 1 tablespoon of basil seeds offers about 7 grams. This promotes gut health, helps regulate blood sugar levels and maintains healthy cholesterol.
• Plant Compounds: These tiny seeds are loaded with flavonoids and polyphenols—powerful antioxidants that protect against cell damage. According to Healthline, these compounds also carry anti-inflammatory and potential anti-cancer properties.
• Omega-3 Fat: Basil seeds are a plant-based source of Omega-3 fatty acids. Just one tablespoon every day can fulfil your daily requirement of ALA (alpha-linolenic acid).

Health benefits of consuming Basil Seeds

Natural cooler

In long, heat-filled summer days, basil seeds act as a natural body coolant. As per the International Journal of Scientific Research and Reviews, these seeds can absorb and retain water, helping cool down the body from within. Add them to your summer drinks and feel the difference.

Aids in Digestion

Rich in fiber, sabja seeds help regulate digestion and relieve common summer issues like bloating, acidity, and constipation. One tablespoon daily can support a healthier digestive system.

Natural Detoxifier

Sabja seeds help flush out toxins from the body. A study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology highlights that the fiber in basil seeds supports gut cleansing and detoxification.

Weight management

Much like chia seeds, sabja seeds support weight management. High fibre keeps you full longer, making them a smart addition to your weight-loss plan.

Promotes healthy skin

Basil seeds are rich in antioxidants, which help protect skin from sun damage and reduce inflammation.

How to Eat Basil Seeds?

They have long been used in drinks across India and Southeast Asia. It’s very easy to include them in your everyday meals.

• Soak 1 teaspoon of seeds in water for 15 minutes until they swell up and then mix into lemonades or smoothies.
• Add them as toppings on your dessert for a sweet yet healthy bite.
• Use them as a dresser on salads.
• Mix in yogurt.
• Add into hot cereals like oatmeal.
• Sprinkle on whole-grain pancakes or pasta dishes.

About the Author

Nishad Thaivalappil

Nishad Thaivalappil is a Lifestyle and Entertainment Journalist with almost a decade-long odyssey in the realms of movies, music, culture, food, and travel. He leads the Lifestyle desk at News18.com. Besides ha…Read More

Nishad Thaivalappil is a Lifestyle and Entertainment Journalist with almost a decade-long odyssey in the realms of movies, music, culture, food, and travel. He leads the Lifestyle desk at News18.com. Besides ha… Read More

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