Here’s another superfood to add to the list: organic basil seeds. These little black tear-shaped seeds from the holy basil plant are packed full of dietary fibre, protein, essential fats, iron, vitamin K, and other powerful antioxidants but contain no calories.

Two teaspoons of basil seeds will provide 10% of your daily iron and 30% of your daily fibre, and they have double the potassium of bananas and three times the amount of calcium as almonds.

The seeds can be used in much the same way as you’d use chia seeds, they have similar thickening properties and don’t have a distinct flavour. The easiest way to get your daily fix is to soak 2 teaspoons in 150ml of luke warm water for a couple of minutes then add to your smoothie, juice, or shake, their mild taste won’t interfere with other flavours.

Regular consumption of organic basil seeds can help with the following …

Weight loss:  Basil seeds have high fiber which works to make you filled up to prevent you from overeating. When digested they swell filling up your stomach and satisfying your appetite. The fiber content of these seeds keep you satiated for a longer period of time.

Aid with digestion: Constant and regular consumption of these seeds can help improve your digestion. When soaked the otter layer of the seed becomes mucus-like, studies have shown that the gooey fiber works as a natural laxative and can be used to relieve stomach cramps, flatulence, and constipation.

Strengthen your hair: The antioxidants in basil seeds can help prevent inflammation and oxidative stress on the scalp, which can often lead to hair loss. The seed has a significant levels of iron and various antioxidants, as well as vitamin K which help with circulation of blood to the scalp which helps grow strong hair follicles.

Help control blood pressure: Basil seed has high levels of potassium which helps relax the tension in the arteries and blood vessels, this then reduces the strain on the cardiovascular system.

Glowing skin: Eating basil seeds regularly helps your body secret collagen which helps form new skin cells. You can also crush the seeds up with a little warm organic coconut oil and use the paste topically to help with eczema and psoriasis.

**The best way to store basil seeds is in a dry and cool area in an airtight jar so that the seeds are not spoiled due to moisture.**

Basil seeds cost around $3.00 for 40g, you can buy them here.

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