Sabja Seeds: A Detailed Exploration
 
Botanical and Common Names
 
Known as Sabja seeds in India, these tiny powerhouses are derived from the plant Ocimum basilicum. Internationally, they're often referred to as sweet basil seeds, falooda seeds, or tukmaria seeds.
 
Nutritional Content
 
Sabja seeds are packed full of nutritional goodness:
Fibre: High in soluble dietary fibre, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.
Protein: Provide a good plant-based source of protein.
Omega-3 fatty acids: Contain a significant amount of heart-healthy Omega-3 fatty acids.
Vitamins and Minerals: Rich in essential vitamins and minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron.
 
Flavours Description
 
Sabja seeds are relatively mild in taste. They have a subtly sweet, grassy flavour and take on the taste of the dish they are added to. When soaked in water, they develop a gelatinous coating and provide a refreshing crunch when eaten.
 
Benefits and Side Effects
 
Benefits
 
Digestive health: The high fibre content aids digestion and helps prevent constipation.
Weight management: The seeds expand to give a full feeling, assisting in weight management efforts.
Diabetes control: Sabja seeds have been known to regulate blood sugar levels, benefiting those with type 2 diabetes.
Skin health: The antioxidant and antibacterial properties may contribute to better skin health.
 
Side Effects
 
While sabja seeds are generally safe for consumption, some precautions should be noted:
Choking hazard: The seeds can expand quickly; hence they should always be taken after soaking and never swallowed directly.
Pregnancy: Pregnant women are advised to avoid consumption due to the potential impact on hormonal levels.
 
Recipe Suggestions and Home Remedies with Sabja Seeds
 
Beverages
 
Sabja Lemonade: This is a perfect thirst quencher on a hot day. Soak a teaspoon of sabja seeds in water for 15-20 minutes. Once they swell up, strain them, and add them to a glass of chilled lemonade. This not only enhances the health benefits of your drink but also provides a fun texture.
Falooda: Falooda is a popular Indian dessert beverage that uses sabja seeds. In a tall glass, layer soaked sabja seeds, rose syrup, and chilled milk, and top it off with a scoop of ice cream. It's a sweet treat that's packed with the goodness of sabja seeds.
Herbal Teas: Soak sabja seeds and add them to your favourite herbal tea like chamomile or mint. The seeds add a subtle crunch and make your tea more filling.
 
Desserts
 
Yoghurt and Fruit Parfait: Add a layer of soaked sabja seeds to your yoghurt and fruit parfait. This not only adds an interesting texture but also increases the nutritional value of your dessert.
Smoothie Bowls: Sprinkle-soaked sabja seeds over your morning smoothie bowl. They'll contribute a delightful crunch and an extra dose of fibre to keep you feeling full longer.
 
Salads
 
Crunchy Sabja Salad: For a refreshing salad, toss your favourite vegetables (like cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and bell peppers) with a handful of soaked sabja seeds. The seeds will provide a pleasing crunch and a nutritional boost.
 
Home Remedies
 
Cooling the Body: In traditional Ayurvedic practice, sabja seeds are believed to cool down the body. On a hot day, a simple mixture of soaked sabja seeds in a glass of cold milk can help provide a cooling effect.
Acidity Relief: Sabja seeds are considered beneficial for relieving acidity and heartburn. Soak a teaspoon of sabja seeds in a glass of milk and consume this when you experience discomfort.
 
Remember, while these recipes and home remedies can contribute to a healthy lifestyle, they are not a substitute for medical treatment. If you have chronic health issues, always consult with a healthcare professional. As a home remedy, sabja seeds can be used to cool the body during hot summer months and are known to provide relief from acidity and heartburn.
 
Buying and Storage Guide
 
When buying sabja seeds, look for seeds that are black and uniform in colour. They should be stored in a cool, dry place in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent moisture absorption.
 
Usage Suggestions
 
To use sabja seeds, soak them in water for about 15-20 minutes, during which they will swell up and form a gelatinous layer. You can then add these soaked seeds to any food or beverage of your choice. Remember, it's essential to soak them before consuming them to ensure they are easy to digest.