Basil seeds: The refreshing drink
By: Dr Gowhar Amin Mir
We are going through the Holy month of Ramadan, and this calls for month-long fasting for people among the Muslims. Fasting from sunrise till sunset. The most and not forgotten drink which is prepared in every household of Kashmir during the fasting to fight dehydration in Ramadan.
Babri Beoul (basil seeds) Treish is a traditional drink of Kashmir and is especially used for breaking fast in Kashmir. This is the gift of central Asia to the people of Kashmir. The basil seeds are black in colour and are collected from the sweet basil plants. The drink of basil seeds was highly recommended by Sufi saints and traditional hakeems to treat dehydration and upset stomach.
Babri Beoul seeds are filled with fibre, protein, calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium and vitamins. This helps keep up the energy, gives a cooling effect to the body and also keeps it hydrated.
The conspicuous characteristics of taking the traditional drink while breaking fast of Ramadan is source full and fascinating by way of store house of nutritional and medicinal values some of them is delineated below.
Benefits and Uses of Basil Seeds during Ramadan (Babri Beoul)
Good Source of nutrition
Adding basil seeds to your regular diet will help regain all the lost carbohydrates, proteins, fats, sugar, dietary fibres, vitamins and minerals. Basil Seeds (Babri Beoul) regulates your physical functions.
Manage Digestion
Scientists have proven that basil seeds have excellent carminative effects because they contain a very high level of insoluble dietary fibres. They serve the purpose of a natural detoxifying agent, which cleanses out the entire gastrointestinal tract efficiently. As the stomach becomes toxin-free, the process of digestion turns easier and the chances of developing various digestive issues such as an upset stomach, cramps, indigestion and flatulence also go down.
Relieve Constipation and Bloating
It contains a volatile oil that helps in relieving gas from your gastrointestinal tract and acts as a stomach cleanser. Basil Seeds (Babri Beoul) can reduce constipation to a great extent or even cure it completely. All you need to do is to soak a handful of the seeds in a glass of milk and drink it every night before going to bed. It will make bowel movements smoother, thereby relieving constipation.
Cure Cough and Cold
Basil Seeds (Babri Beoul) benefit is its antispasmodic property. These seeds soothe the spasmodic muscles and help them relax. The antispasmodic property helps to control whooping cough and also aids in strengthening the body’s immunity system
Cures acidity and Heartburn
Basil Seeds (Babri Beoul) are very soothing for our gastrointestinal tract, especially the stomach. If you feel an acute burning sensation in your abdomen, you should consume some basil seeds. within one week and you will definitely see a difference!
Balance body heat
When it comes to keeping our bodies cool during scorching summer days, Basil Seeds (Babri Beoul) can be a saviour. It has great cooling properties and is used as an effective body coolant. Just drench a handful of fresh Basil Seeds (Babri Beoul) in a glass of cold water and drink it after an hour or so.
Controls Blood Sugar Levels
It slows down the metabolism of your body and controls the conversion of carbs into glucose. It is even considered to be good for type II diabetes patients.
Decreases stress
Basil Seeds (Babri Beoul) are one of the best natural thing that stops or gets rid of stress. As mentioned earlier, they have wonderful calming effects on our body, which are to some extent similar to aromatherapy. Therefore, incorporating these seeds in your daily food actually means reduced stress levels, increased mental clarity, improved mental strength and uplifted mood.
Suppresses Appetite
Basil Seeds (Babri Beoul) are loaded with fibre, which keeps you feeling full for a long time and thus prevents you from unnecessary overeating by reducing your appetite. These seeds are low in calories and high in nutrients like calcium, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus, along with other multivitamins. It can be taken by adding the seeds to yoghurt, fruits or juices. You could also drink the jelly-like basil seed mixture to suppress your appetite, thereby avoiding binge-eating or over-eating.
