These tiny seeds are more powerful than chia seeds, here's how to add them to the diet

Whether you are a health enthusiast or simply follow traditional remedies to stay fit and healthy, you must have come across ladoos or chikkis made with these little seeds known as Aliv seeds or halim seeds. These tiny seeds are an active ingredient used in several traditional home remedies and Ayurvedic medicines. Here’s more about these tiny seeds and why they are even more potent than the popular chia seeds? Read on to find out…


What are Aliv seeds?
Aliv seeds are also known as Garden cress seeds or Halim seeds in different parts of the world. These seeds may resemble a lot to flaxseeds, but little do we know that these tiny, nutty-flavored seeds have been used extensively in traditional Indian delicacies. These seeds hail from the Aliv plant, which is scientifically known as Lepidium Sativum. These seeds are naturally loaded with essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that not only help in boosting immunity, and also help in improving metabolism and overall well being. Here are some lesser-known benefits of consuming Aliv seeds:


Why are these seeds so potent?
Much like chia seeds and flaxseeds, these tiny aliv seeds are naturally rich in protein, fiber, calcium, iron, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin C and vitamins A and E. Here are more reasons to add them to the daily diet:

Blood purification
These seeds are believed to have blood-purifying properties, promoting overall health and well-being. Moreover, the presence of essential minerals like iron can help boost hemoglobin levels and improve overall blood levels, which further prevents health conditions like anemia.



Aid in digestion
Aliv seeds also contain healthy dietary fibers, which can help in digestion and prevents constipation. These tiny seeds also work as a natural laxative, when consumed daily in the right proportions.

Bone health
These seeds are traditionally given to nurturing mothers and growing kids to boost their strength and bone health. This is due to the presence of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus in aliv seeds contributes to bone health.

Read on: How to use Aliv Seeds (Halim Seeds) for hair growth

Hair growth
Some traditional practices suggest that aliv seeds can support hair growth due to their nutrient content. Adding them to the daily diet can revive hair follicles and boost hair regrowth by improving iron levels in the body.



Easy ways to include Aliv seeds in the diet
Since ages, these tiny seeds have been extensively consumed in the India cuisine in several interesting ways, and here are some easy ways to add them to the daily diet:

Laddoos
Create nutritious snacks by making aliv seed laddoos or energy bites by combining ground aliv seeds with ingredients like jaggery, ghee, and nuts to form bite-sized treats that can be enjoyed as a snack.

Salads
Add a tablespoon of soaked or roasted aliv seeds to your salads. They can provide a crunchy texture and nutty flavor, enhancing the nutritional profile of your salad.



Shakes, smoothies and curd
Blend aliv seeds into your yogurt or smoothies. This adds a nutritional boost and a subtle nutty taste. You can soak the seeds before adding them to make them softer.

Aliv seed paratha or roti
Mix powdered aliv seed in the roti or paratha dough. This not only adds a nutritional element but also imparts a subtle nutty flavor to the roti or parathas.