Sabja (Basil) Seeds: Benefits, Uses, Side Effects And More

Sabja seeds, also known as basil seeds, have gained significant popularity recently due to their rich nutrient profile and potential health advantages. These seeds contain essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, naturally boosting overall well-being. 

The benefits of sabja seeds are not limited to their nutritional value alone. These seeds have been utilised for centuries in traditional medicine practices due to their potential medicinal properties. 

This blog aims to bridge the gap between ancient wisdom and modern understanding, exploring the science behind these seeds and their impact on our health. It will also explore the numerous benefits of basil seeds, ranging from their potential role in digestion and weight management to their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.

Nutritional value of sabja seeds

Sabja seeds are low in calories and fat, making them a great addition to a balanced diet. They are also a good source of dietary fibre, which aids in digestion and helps maintain bowel regularity. Sabja seeds are rich in calcium, iron, magnesium, and phosphorus, contributing to bone health, muscle function, and overall well-being.

The benefits of sabja seeds also contain essential vitamins such as A, C, E, and K, which support various bodily functions and provide antioxidant benefits.

Nutritional chart for basil seeds 

Here is the nutritional profile of the basil/sabja seeds

The health benefits of sabja seeds

Some of the incredible health benefits of sabja seeds are as follows. 

Antioxidant/anti-ageing effect

Numerous research studies have provided evidence supporting the antioxidant properties of sabja seeds. In addition to their antioxidant potential, sabja seeds are also known to be rich in total phenols. These bioactive compounds have demonstrated their effectiveness in combating serious diseases like cancer and cardiovascular disease.

Antimicrobial effect

With the rise of drug-resistant bacteria, scientists have been exploring the antibiotic properties of sweet basil seeds. Studies have revealed that sabja seeds are effective against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria. It is due to the mucilaginous coatings’ antimicrobial action in the seeds. 

Anti-inflammatory effect 

Sabja seeds contain anti-inflammatory compounds that can help reduce inflammation in the body, potentially relieving symptoms of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis and promoting overall well-being.

Weight loss

The benefits of sabja seeds include weight loss, as they are low in calories and high in fibre, which can promote a feeling of fullness, aid digestion, and help control appetite.

Skincare

Antioxidants and essential nutrients in sabja seeds contribute to healthier skin by promoting cell regeneration, reducing inflammation, and improving skin elasticity.

Reduces blood sugar levels

Sabja seeds have been found to have hypoglycemic effects, helping to regulate blood sugar levels and potentially benefiting individuals with diabetes.

Relieves constipation

The fibre content in sabja seeds can help promote bowel regularity, prevent constipation, and improve digestive health.

Powerhouse of minerals

Sabja seeds are a good source of essential minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron, which are vital for maintaining healthy bones, muscle function, and overall well-being.

Prevents the risk of heart diseases

The fibre and omega-3 fatty acids in sabja seeds contribute to heart health by reducing cholesterol levels, improving lipid profiles, and supporting cardiovascular function.

Good for oral health

Chewing sabja seeds may help improve oral health by promoting saliva production, which can neutralise acids and prevent tooth decay.

Reduce cholesterol levels

Regular consumption of sabja seeds may help lower LDL (bad) cholesterol and raise HDL (good) cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

Good for hair growth

The essential nutrients in sabja seeds, including vitamins, minerals, and proteins, promote healthy hair growth, strengthen hair follicles, and reduce hair fall.

Other uses of sabja or basil seeds

Other benefits of basil seeds include making refreshing drinks and desserts and adding to salads, yoghurts, and smoothies, enhancing the taste and nutritional value of various dishes.

Chia seeds and sabja seeds

While chia seeds and sabja seeds share some similarities, such as their use in weight loss and high fibre content, it’s important to note that they are not the same. Each seed has unique characteristics, nutritional profiles, and potential health benefits. Therefore, it’s crucial to understand the differences between sabja seeds and chia seeds before incorporating them into your diet or wellness routine.

Difference between chia seeds and sabja seeds 

Side effects of sabja seeds

While the benefits of sabja seeds are numerous, they also come with potential side effects, which include:

• Nausea: Some individuals may experience nausea after consuming basil seeds.
• Vomiting: Sometimes, consuming sabja seeds may lead to vomiting.
• Acne: It has been reported that specific individuals may experience acne breakouts.
• Acid reflux: Sabja seeds sometimes contribute to acid reflux or heartburn symptoms.
• Headache: Certain individuals may experience headaches as a side effect.
• Lowered blood sugar: Basil seeds have the potential to lower blood sugar, which can be a concern for individuals with diabetes or those taking medications to control blood sugar.
• Loss of appetite: Some individuals may experience a decrease in appetite.

Precautions while consuming sabja seeds

Following precautions must be taken for sabja seeds

• Not appropriate for pregnant women: Pregnant women should avoid consuming sabja seeds as they can increase estrogen levels, which may not be advisable during pregnancy.
• Caution for children: Keeping Sabja seeds away from children is essential as they pose a choking hazard.

Conclusion

While sabja seeds are not a magical cure-all, they offer a range of health benefits worth considering. Their high nutrient content and traditional medicinal uses make them a promising addition to one’s diet. 

However, it is essential to remember that more research is required to fully understand their benefits and potential side effects and determine the most effective ways to incorporate them into our diets. Incorporating sabja seeds into a balanced diet may be a simple and effective way to support overall well-being.

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Frequently asked questions

Disclaimer 

The content provided within this article has been thoroughly verified for accuracy. However, we advise consulting a healthcare professional before utilising any medication or dietary supplements mentioned herein.

References

• Calderón Bravo H, Vera Céspedes N, Zura-Bravo L, Muñoz LA. Basil seeds as a novel food, source of nutrients and functional ingredients with beneficial properties: A review. Foods. 2021 Jun 24;10(7):1467. [Cited on 2023 July 12]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8303141 
• Vlaicu PA, Untea AE, Turcu RP, Saracila M, Panaite TD, Cornescu GM. Nutritional composition and bioactive compounds of basil, thyme and sage plant additives and their functionality on broiler thigh meat quality. Foods. 2022 Apr 12;11(8):1105. [Cited on 2023 July 12]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9029320/ 
• Takeuchi H, Takahashi-Muto C, Nagase M, Kassai M, Tanaka-Yachi R, Kiyose C. Anti-inflammatory effects of extracts of sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) on a co-culture of 3T3-L1 adipocytes and RAW264. 7 macrophages. Journal of oleo science. 2020;69(5):487-93. [Cited on 2023 July 12]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32281564/ 

• Bensaid A, Boudard F, Servent A, Morel S, Portet K, Guzman C, Vitou M, Bichon F, Poucheret P. Differential nutrition-health properties of Ocimum basilicum leaf and stem extracts. Foods. 2022 Jun 9;11(12):1699. [Cited on 2023 July 12]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9222536/