Basil is a beloved herb in kitchens around the world, but its seeds are a hidden gem that more people are starting to discover. Known for their health benefits and easy-to-grow nature, basil seeds (also called sabja or tukmaria) are a fantastic addition to both your garden and your pantry.
What Are Basil Seeds?
Basil seeds come from the sweet basil plant (Ocimum basilicum), the same one that gives us fragrant green leaves for cooking. These small black seeds look a bit like chia seeds and behave similarly when soaked in water—they swell up into a jelly-like coating. Though commonly used in Indian and Southeast Asian drinks and desserts, they’re gaining popularity worldwide for their nutritional value.
When to Plant Basil Seeds in Australia
Basil loves warmth and sunshine, making it a perfect herb for the Australian spring and summer. The best time to sow basil seeds depends slightly on your region:
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Temperate climates (Sydney, Perth, Adelaide): Sow from September to December.
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Cooler areas (Melbourne, Hobart): Wait until late October to early November when frosts have passed.
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Tropical and subtropical regions (Brisbane, Darwin, northern NSW): You can plant as early as August and continue into March.
Basil is frost-sensitive, so it’s best grown in the warmer months. If you’re starting early, you can plant seeds indoors in small pots and transplant them outside once the weather is consistently warm.
Growing Tips
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Choose a sunny location—basil needs at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily.
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Keep the soil moist but well-drained.
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Pinch off flower buds early to encourage more leaf growth.
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Harvest leaves regularly to keep the plant producing.
Health Benefits of Basil Seeds
Though they’re tiny, basil seeds are packed with nutrients and wellness perks:
🌿 Rich in Fiber
Basil seeds are high in soluble fiber, which helps with digestion and promotes a feeling of fullness—great for gut health and weight management.
🌿 Cooling Effect
Traditionally used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine, soaked basil seeds have a natural cooling effect on the body, making them a popular summer remedy.
🌿 Supports Blood Sugar Balance
Some studies suggest that basil seeds can help stabilize blood sugar levels, which may benefit people managing diabetes or insulin resistance.
🌿 Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant
Basil seeds contain plant compounds like flavonoids and polyphenols, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
🌿 Good for Skin and Hair
The nutrients in basil seeds—especially the iron and protein—can support healthy hair and skin from within.
How to Use Them
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Soak 1–2 teaspoons in water for about 15 minutes until they swell.
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Add to smoothies, iced teas, lemon water, or desserts.
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Stir into yogurt, puddings, or fruit salads for texture and nutrients.
A Note for Gardeners
If you’re harvesting basil seeds from your own plants, wait until the flowers dry out and the seed pods turn brown. Gently crush them to release the seeds and store them in a dry, airtight container for next season.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re growing basil for its fragrant leaves or harvesting its seeds for health, this humble herb is a gift that keeps on giving. In Australia’s sun-drenched climate, basil is easy to grow, and its seeds offer a powerhouse of benefits waiting to be explored.
