Basil (Tulsi/Sabja) : Benifits and Side effects

Health benefits of holy basil

Basil is one of the most commonly consumed herbs and one of the most well-loved herbs as well! Basil has the ability to add a nice Italian flare to just about any dish and tastes amazing chopped and added to a freshly made vegan pizza. What most people don’t know is that as they are enjoying basil they are actually doing their body some good! Not only does it tastes amazing; there are also some amazing health benefits of basil that many do not know about. So, go ahead and continue to enjoy your basil it’s helping you in more ways than one.

Here are some of the amazing health benefits of basil you never knew:

Basil Contains Powerful Antioxidants

This may be surprising considering many people associate antioxidants with things like berries, but guess what? One of the best health benefits of Basil is that it is another excellent source of antioxidants as well! Basil contains water soluble flavonoids called rientin and viceninare which can help to protect white blood cells. Basil has also been known to help fight free radical damage. 

Basil is an Anti-inflammatory Herb

Here’s another excellent anti-inflammatory herb to add to the list! Inflammation has become a widespread issue seen today and is the root cause of nearly every chronic disease. Consuming foods to cool inflammation is essential for optimal health. The essential oils in basil are what’s responsible for helping to beat inflammation.

Basil may Help Fight Cancer

Another plant-based herb that has the ability to help the body fight cancer! Studies have been published in the journal of Nutrition and Cancer stating that basil contains phytochemicals which may be able to naturally help prevent cancer! 

Basil Contains Natural Antibacterial Properties

If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your immune system or fight off pre-existing infections, basil may do the trick! Basil extract has even been shown to help in inhibiting resistant strains of bacteria that are unable to respond to antibiotics. Pretty amazing, right!

Basil Acts as a Natural Adaptogen

Adaptogenic herbs help your body deal with stress, and with the amount of stress seen today everyone needs some help balancing stress loads! Studies have now shown that basil may have the ability to act as an adaptogen to help the body more efficiently handle stress.

 It’s truly amazing what plants can offer concerning health. Never underestimated the power of nature. The ability to heal and promote health may be as simple as turning to plant-based and whole food products.

Health Benifits of basil seeds

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.

(Also Read: Here's Why You Should Drink Fennel Seeds Water)

_{Sabja seeds benefits: Sabja seeds are known to be rich in alpha-linolenic acid}

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.

(Also Read: How To Reduce Body Heat: Effective Tips)

_{Sabja seeds benefits: It is a great drink to sip on to beat the scorching summer heat​}

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.

(Also Read: Sneaky Foods That Raise Blood Sugar Levels)

_{Sabja seeds benefits: Sabja seeds are considered to be good for type 2 diabetics} 

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.

(Also Read: 8 Remedies For Constipation And Bloating)

_{Sabja Seeds benefits: Sabja seeds are known to naturally detox your body and regulate smooth bowel movements​}

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.

(Also Read: Foods That Will Keep Acidity At Bay)

_{Sabja seeds benefits: Sabja seeds soothe stomach burn and their diuretic functions​}

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 promotes hair growth and adds volume.

_{Sabja seeds benefits: Sabja seeds crushed into coconut oil and applied on affected areas​}

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.

_{Sabja seeds benefits: Sabja seeds have an antispasmodic property}


Note : 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.