1. Measure ¼ cup of basil seeds into a medium bowl. Pour 2 cups of room-temperature filtered water over the seeds and stir gently for 30 seconds to prevent clumping.

2. Allow the seeds to soak for exactly 15 minutes at room temperature until each seed develops a clear, translucent gel coating and expands to about 4 times its original size.

3. While seeds soak, juice the limes into a small bowl. Whisk in raw honey or maple syrup until fully dissolved, then add vanilla extract and a pinch of sea salt.

4. Drain excess water from the soaked seeds using a fine mesh strainer. Transfer seeds to a serving pitcher.

5. Pour the lime flavor base over the seeds, then add the remaining 2 cups of filtered water. Stir gently for 1–2 minutes. Taste and adjust sweetness if needed.

6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.

7. Before serving, stir well to redistribute seeds. Pour over ice, garnish with fresh mint leaves, and serve immediately with a wide straw.