6 Ways to Use Basil Seeds, Our New Favorite Skin-Boosting Superfood

Move over, chia! There’s a new contender for the superseed throne: basil seeds!

Similar in texture to chia seeds, basil seeds come from Thai basil and can be found in Asian supermarkets, as well as many health stores. You might also find them under the Indian name of “sabja”.

But what makes them so great, you ask? Why have they been used in Chinese and Ayurvedic medicine for thousands of years? Rich in protein, Omega-3 fatty acids and fiber, basil seeds are used for weight loss, to control blood sugar levels, to relieve constipation and heartburn.

They’re also believed to have benefits for the skin and hair, either applied raw to eczema and psoriasis, or soaked and ingested to boost the production of collagen. Packed with iron and vitamin K, they also promote the growth of stronger hair.

6 Basil Seed Recipes

You can use basil seeds like you would chia: in lemonade, smoothies or soaked in your favorite milk or yogurt as pudding. Just make sure you don’t eat them raw, since they’re rather hard to chew: ten minutes in liquid and they’re good to go! If you need some inspiration, just scroll down for some tasty basil seed recipes:

Basil seeds and collagen combine to make a hydrating, beauty-boosting summer drink. Fruit-infused ice cubes add sweetness and summery fun.

Beauty-Boosting Strawberry Lemonade with Basil Seeds

A gluten-free porridge that feels like a warm hug on a cold fall morning! Buckwheat and basil seeds are softened with coconut milk, spiced with vanilla and cardamom, and topped with beautiful berry compote, nuts and seeds.

Buckwheat Basil Seed Porridge from Swoon Food

A twist on the classic pannacotta, this melt-in-your-mouth dessert is made with lemongrass, basil seeds and a topping of delicious jamun pulp jam.

Lemongrass Basil Seeds Pannacotta from Cubes N’Juliennes

Upgrade your lemonade in two easy steps: coconut water instead of regular water, and soaked basil seeds to make it even more refreshing.

Basil Seeds and Coconut Water Drink from Spice Roots

Mango and coconut milk are a tasty, tropical combination that’s made even better with sabja seeds. Putting them together in your morning smoothie is a brilliant idea, not just for your taste buds but also for your health.

Mango, Coconut Milk & Sabja Seeds Smoothie from Jopreet’s Kitchen

Swap the unhealthy fizzy soft drinks for this pineapple limeade made with basil seeds and green chillies.

Pineapple Limeade from Take It Easy Chef