Basil Seeds

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Basil Seeds

Basil is a herb that is mostly found in India and in the southern regions of Asia and is used in various Asian cuisines. The Thai basil itself has more of a licorice or anise flavor. The leaves are smaller than the regular basil leaves and seeds are used in Italian cooking. There are an array of basil cultivars such as sweet basil, cinnamon basil (smells like cinnamon), holy basil, lemon basil and the list goes on.

The Basil seeds when it sits in water can expand and produces a jelly like ball, which is used in drinks or as a dessert such as faluda, sherbet... To get the seeds, normally people wait till the plant turns dry and brown.

Preparing basil seeds

Put 2 tsp. of basil seeds to 1/2 cup – 1 cup of warm water or liquid of your choice. If you want more concentrated of a flavor, drain excess water out after swelling the basil seeds with plain water. The warm water (not boiling) helps to fully swell the basil seeds, releasing antioxidants and digestive enzymes. Allow the mixture to stand for at least 2 minutes with the warm water/liquid to give the seeds time to absorb water and take on a gelatinous-tapioca like texture.

Health Benefits of Basil Seeds

1. Aids in digestion
Basil seeds are commonly used to provide relief from stomach upset. Due to its carminative effects, it is effective for treating digestive disorders such as stomach cramps, flatulence, constipation, irregular bowel movements and indigestion.

2. Treats colds
Another benefit of basil seeds is that they also provide relief from influenza, fever and cold. Since it has antispasmodic effects, it can help treat whooping cough. In fact, tulsi is the main ingredient in many expectorants and cough syrups.

3. Cures respiratory disorders
The herb is useful in the cure of respiratory disease, according to recent studies. A mixture of the herb, with ginger and honey is a remedy for asthma, cough, cold, influenza and bronchitis. Simply boil it in a glass of water and consume it.

4. Stress reliever
Consumption of basil seeds has an uplifting effect on your mood and thus is beneficial for relieving mental fatigue, nervous tension, melancholy, depression and migraine. Due to its calming effect, it is commonly used for aromatherapy purposes, giving you clarity and mental strength.

5. Good for skin infections
Basil seeds are crushed into oil to help in treating infections such as wounds, cuts, bladder infections, skin infections and so forth.

Read More at Wikipedia.
Recipes Using Basil Seeds see Here and Here , Here.

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