Herbs at Home That Heal: Basil seeds/sabja seeds  

Also known as Tukmaria seeds* (Basil Seeds) *(SABJA)* Ocimum basilicum

Tukmaria seeds (Basil Seeds) (SABJA) are commonly used when making Falooda
(Vermicelli) drinks. The seeds float at the bottom and are absolutely delicious.

Falooda or Faluda : is a popular beverage in the Indian subcontinent made primarily by mixing rose syrup with vermicelli and tapioca seeds/sabja seeds along with either milk or water.


how they grow
Sabja seeds grow on a variety of basil plant. This is found wild all over India and has dark green leaves and a branched erect stem. The plant grows to a height of 1m. The flowers grow in slender spike and give way to tiny seeds. These dry on the plant or are dried in the sun.

When dropped into water they first develop a whitish grey bloom and then the skin swells appearing hurry. The outer coating is translucent and pale grey so the black seed within can be easily seen. Once they get to this stage they are ready to be eaten. They have no aroma or taste but a strange pleasant combination of contrasting textures.

Health benefits:
Sabja seeds are considered to be diuretic tonic and an excellent remedy for constipation and piles. The plant is recommended for coughs worms and stomach complaints and the juice of the leaves is applied externally for skin disorders.

Sabja seeds reduces body heat: Sabja seeds are the best known substance that reduces body heat. These seeds are soaked in water for sometime and added to milk with rose syrup. This is a good drink to cool down your system instantly.