BASIL-My Kitchen Herb of the WEEK!
Basil
(Ocimum basilicum)
IT doesn’t matter if you’ve eaten basil in a creamy pesto drizzled over pasta at your favorite Italian restaurant, or devoured the herb in a delicious Vietnamese Pho – you’ll be experiencing amazingly tasteful health benefits either way. Used for centuries and having its own mythology and folklore due to its numerous royal qualities, sweet basil is a must-have in any kitchen.
Basil means ‘king’ in the Greek language, and it is often used in Holy water since it was considered to grow in the same spot that St. Constantine and Helen founded the Holy Cross. In Mexico it is kept in the pocket to entice a long-lost lover back home after an extended journey. In Romania, basil is given to a fiancé to declare love and start an engagement. The plant’s history may just be more interesting than the benefits it provides.
Health Benefits of Basil
Here are 7 awesome health benefits of basil:
1. Basil offers 60% of your daily recommended dose of vitamin K, which helps bones and the heart to be strong. Vitamin K is also essential for the proper formation and full activation of the Gla proteins. The Gla protein osteocalcin, when fully carboxylated by vitamin K, allows for the binding of calcium to the bone matrix.
2. Holy Basil, which grows all over India might just be another answer to defluoridating water in poor countries all over the world. Research scientists at Rajasthan University have discovered that Tulsi (holy basil) can replace some of the more expensive alternatives to fluoride removal.
3. Basil contains high levels of zeaxanthin, a flavonoid carotenoid compound that can be selectively absorbed into the retinal macula lutea (a part of the eye) where it was found to filter harmful UV rays from reaching the retina. Studies suggest that common herbs, fruits, and vegetables that are rich in zeaxanthin help to protect from age-related macular disease (AMRD), especially in the elderly.
4. Unique water soluble flavonoids in basil, called orientin and vicenin protect our cells. Especially the white blood cells are positively affected, enduring radiation and oxygen-based damage more easily with the use of basil.
5. Basil is full of iron, the important mineral that helps to move oxygen through the body via the red blood cells. Just 100 grams (a handful of leaves) can supply up to 18% RDA of iron.
6. Basil protects against ‘bad’ bacteria. This is due to the volatile oils is basil: estragole, linalool, cineole, eugenol, sabinene, myrcene, and limonene. Basil can wipe out things like Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli.
7. Basil is full of vitamin A. This important nutrient has been shown to reduce certain types of cancers and aid vision.
Basil, native to Asia, grows easily in containers in your kitchen or in a sunny spot in your outdoor garden. Try planting your own organic basil it purchase it from trusted non-GMO growers.
Basil is a sun loving half-hardy annual. It makes a great kitchen
windowsill plant, and is thought to help deter flies. Preserve Basil
by freezing or packing into jars with olive oil.
Description
There are many types of basil, and the appearance of the leaves
varies. One sure way to identify basil is by the smell. It is highly
aromatic and smells something like cloves. The cut ends of the stems
smell stronger than the leaves. The plant can grow to a height of 2
feet.
Cultivation
In colder zones, start basil indoors in mid-spring. Sow the seeds
directly into the garden in warmer areas. Seedlings should not be set
outdoors until all danger of frost has past and the plant has four
true leaves. Plants can also be started from cuttings or rooted
suckers.
Once plants are established, pinch out the top to encourage a bushier
plant. Frequent harvesting of the outer leaves will prolong the life
of the plant.
Culinary use
Basil has a warm, resinous, clove-like flavor and fragrance. The
flowers and leaves are best used fresh and added only during the last
few minutes of cooking. Basil works well in combination with
tomatoes. Finely chopped basil stirred into mayonnaise makes a good
sauce for fish. Use as a garnish for vegetables, chicken and egg
dishes. Large lettuce-leaf basil can be stuffed as you would a grape
leaf. Basil does not dry well for cooking.
Pesto Sauce
1/3 cup fresh basil leaves
2 cloves garlic, crushed
pinch of salt
1/2 cup pine kernels
3/4 cup parmesan cheese
1/2 cup olive oil
Blend the basil leaves in a blender. If your supply of basil is
insufficient, combine fresh parsley and basil for a slightly
different flavor.
Add the garlic and olive oil and process for a few seconds. Gradually
add the pine kernels, Parmesan cheese and salt. The consistency
should be thick and creamy.
This quantity of pesto sauce is sufficient for 1 pound cooked,
drained pasta. Mix 2 tablespoons pesto with the pasta and serve on
individual plates with an extra spoonful of pesto on each helping.
Medicinal Use
To relieve sore gums, swish out the mouth often with a tea made from
8 basil leaves in a cup of boiling water. A basil leaf tucked into
the mouth over an ulcer and kept there for as long as possible will
ease the pain.
Other Uses
Basil in the bath is refreshing. Leaves and flowers can be dried for
potpourri. Burn sprigs of basil on the barbecue to deter mosquitoes.
A bunch of basil hung over the kitchen window or a pot of basil in
the windowsill will deter flies.
from Garden Guide
Secrets About Basil
Basil is described by Webster as being of the mint family used especially as
a seasoning. As you read this article you will find that basil is much more
than something we add to our spaghetti.
Basil's botanical name is Ocimium basilicum. It is a native of India, South
Asia, the Middle East and has been grown for thousands of years in the
Mediterranean region. Basil is found growing wild in tropical and
sub-tropical regions of the world.
There are many rituals and beliefs associated with basil. The French call
basil herb royale. In Italy it is a sign of love, romance and fine dining.
Jewish folklore suggests it adds strength while fasting. Basil was said to
be found in Christ's tomb after his resurrection. Greek Orthodox use basil
to prepare holy water and pots of basil are placed below church alters. In
Europe and India they place basil in the hands of the dead to ensure a safe
journey. The Egyptians and Grecians believe it will actually open the gates
of heaven for a person passing on.
Maybe all of us had better get out our garden tools, plant some basil and
begin to get prepared! Growing basil is something you definitely want to
try. Basil is an annual herb with a spicy, clove like fragrance and flavor.
Sow seeds indoors in the spring or plant seeds outside when all danger of
frost has passed and the ground is at least 50 degrees. Make sure you place
basil in a sheltered spot near your peppers and tomatoes to enhance growth.
Your plants should be placed 1 foot apart, 1/8 inch deep, in rich moist
light sandy soil, in full sun. Take care not to over water. Basil grows up
to 3 foot high and flowers in mid-to-late summer. Basil has a bushy
appearance with leafy stems. The leaves are very fragrant. Pick the leaves
when young. To encourage growth and a bushy plant, prune the main stem
leaving at least one node with two shoots. Do this before it flowers. Gather
the tops as the flowers open. To store basil, dry the leaves or brush the
leaves with oil and freeze.
There are many varieties of basil: Sweet Basil, Bush Basil, Dark Opal Basil,
Lemon Basil, Holy Basil, Vero Basil, Purple Ruffle Basil and the list goes
on. Sweet Basil and Bush Basil are best choices for culinary use.
Basil has been known for many years as an herbal remedy for diseases of the
brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, and the bladder. It is primarily a digestive
and nervous system aid. Infuse basil and use it as a tea for indigestion.
Inhale basil tea to relieve cold symptoms. A tonic can be made by steeping
basil leaves in wine for several hours. Basil has uplifting, energizing,
anti-depressant properties.
The dried leaves are used as snuff to relieve headaches and colds. Basil is
also used as an insect repellent. Place a pot of basil outside your door to
repel flies. Use basil essential oil on a bee sting (use only one drop, more
than one drop may irritate the skin) or crush the leaves and rub on cuts,
insect bites and stings.
Some of the ailments basil can treat are: anxiety, concentration,
indigestion, respiratory problems, colic, tight coughs, asthma, nervous
headaches, migraines, muscle tension, nerve pain, memory loss, insomnia,
infection, a stuffy head, colds, sinusitis, sore throats, bronchial
congestion, appetite loss, gas, diarrhea, and nausea.
Use basil flowers and leaves for an invigorating bath. Basil adds luster to
hair: brunettes, add it to a rosemary rinse, blondes, add it to a chamomile
rinse. Combine basil essential oil with other essential oils to make
perfumes and toilet water. Blends well with: Bergamot, geranium, hyssop,
neoili, marjoram, melissa and lavender.
Basil is very aromatic. Add dried basil to potpourri and sachets. Lemon
basil and opal basil are good choices.
Use basil as an ornamental; not because of its beautiful flowers, but
because it has beautiful shiny leaves that can offset other flowering
plants.
Last but not least, basil is very compatible with tomatoes. Basil is known
as the tomato herb. Use sweet basil in your pesto and tomato sauces.
Sprinkle dried or cut fresh basil over salads and sliced tomatoes. Basil
also goes well in soups, salads, eggs, fish and meat dishes.
The Herbal Approach Archives
* The information in this article should not replace the advice of your
medical practitioner.
Diane Kennedy Snyder is an Herb Specialist. She is the creator of Diane’s
Herbal Shop an online all natural herbal products gift store. Her company
uses natures herbs, herbal teas, and all natural ingredients to manufacture
quality soap and bath products that help relieve stress and skin problems.
Her products also pamper the body, mind, and soul.
The Herbal Approach © 1998-2000, The Mommy Mall
BASIL - SEEDS
Wind, Warts, Sneeze
French doctors seldom agreed on the cures in their Basilic, but then neither did the physicians of Greece or England.
Eating of too much Basill dry up milk & breeds wind. ~DIOSCORIDES (1st cent., Greek)~
The Seeds drunk (with wine) is good for them that are puff up with winds or that breed melancholy, to make warts to rise up by the Rootes, mix the Seeds with Shoemakers blacke, & apply it. The Seeds put into the nose cause sneezing, but when thou sneezeth, shut thine eyes lest they fall out. ~LANGHAM (1579, English~
Basil-
Basil (Ocymum Basilium, also known as Devil Plant) was called "The Herb of
Kings" by the ancient Greeks. The Egyptians burned a mixture of Basil and
Myrrh to appease their gods. In India the Basil plant is sacred to both
Krishna and Vishnu, and is cherished in every Hindu house, probably because
of it's virtues of disinfecting and freshening the air. Hindus believed that
if a leaf of Basil were buried with them, it would serve as their passport to
heaven. In Haiti Basil is thought to belong to the pagan love goddess
Erzulie. World wide over 150 varieties of Basil are grown, and it has a wide
range of uses from culinary to worship.
Magickal Uses:
It's old association with the basilisk explains Sweet Basil's contemporary
correspondences with salamanders (elemental creatures of fire) and dragons.
(The basilisk was a mythological reptile) Basil is a good herb for
protection, sympathy, wealth, prosperity, and love. Carry Basil in your
pockets to attract money. Basil is widely associated with rituals of
initiation, and the sabbat frequently associated with Basil is Candlemas. It
is an herb of purification and courage, for it helps one move forward in a
positive manner no matter how perilous the dangers. Basil is known for
protecting a seeker from fears one encounters when moving along a spiritual
path.
Medicinal and Other Uses:
One of Basil's medicinal properties is it can be used to draw out poison from
insect bites. Basil is valued for aiding digestion, and it is anti-bacterial.
It's also used for ringworm and internal parasites. It's said it has the
ability to reduce blood sugar levels. It also prevents peptic ulcers and
other stress related conditions like hypertension, colitis and asthma. Basil
is also used to treat cold and reduce fever, congestion and joint pain. Due
to its anti-bacterial and fungicide action, Basil leaves are used on itching
skin.
(Ocimum basilicum)
IT doesn’t matter if you’ve eaten basil in a creamy pesto drizzled over pasta at your favorite Italian restaurant, or devoured the herb in a delicious Vietnamese Pho – you’ll be experiencing amazingly tasteful health benefits either way. Used for centuries and having its own mythology and folklore due to its numerous royal qualities, sweet basil is a must-have in any kitchen.
Basil means ‘king’ in the Greek language, and it is often used in Holy water since it was considered to grow in the same spot that St. Constantine and Helen founded the Holy Cross. In Mexico it is kept in the pocket to entice a long-lost lover back home after an extended journey. In Romania, basil is given to a fiancé to declare love and start an engagement. The plant’s history may just be more interesting than the benefits it provides.
Health Benefits of Basil
Here are 7 awesome health benefits of basil:
1. Basil offers 60% of your daily recommended dose of vitamin K, which helps bones and the heart to be strong. Vitamin K is also essential for the proper formation and full activation of the Gla proteins. The Gla protein osteocalcin, when fully carboxylated by vitamin K, allows for the binding of calcium to the bone matrix.
2. Holy Basil, which grows all over India might just be another answer to defluoridating water in poor countries all over the world. Research scientists at Rajasthan University have discovered that Tulsi (holy basil) can replace some of the more expensive alternatives to fluoride removal.
3. Basil contains high levels of zeaxanthin, a flavonoid carotenoid compound that can be selectively absorbed into the retinal macula lutea (a part of the eye) where it was found to filter harmful UV rays from reaching the retina. Studies suggest that common herbs, fruits, and vegetables that are rich in zeaxanthin help to protect from age-related macular disease (AMRD), especially in the elderly.
4. Unique water soluble flavonoids in basil, called orientin and vicenin protect our cells. Especially the white blood cells are positively affected, enduring radiation and oxygen-based damage more easily with the use of basil.
5. Basil is full of iron, the important mineral that helps to move oxygen through the body via the red blood cells. Just 100 grams (a handful of leaves) can supply up to 18% RDA of iron.
6. Basil protects against ‘bad’ bacteria. This is due to the volatile oils is basil: estragole, linalool, cineole, eugenol, sabinene, myrcene, and limonene. Basil can wipe out things like Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli.
7. Basil is full of vitamin A. This important nutrient has been shown to reduce certain types of cancers and aid vision.
Basil, native to Asia, grows easily in containers in your kitchen or in a sunny spot in your outdoor garden. Try planting your own organic basil it purchase it from trusted non-GMO growers.
Basil is a sun loving half-hardy annual. It makes a great kitchen
windowsill plant, and is thought to help deter flies. Preserve Basil
by freezing or packing into jars with olive oil.
Description
There are many types of basil, and the appearance of the leaves
varies. One sure way to identify basil is by the smell. It is highly
aromatic and smells something like cloves. The cut ends of the stems
smell stronger than the leaves. The plant can grow to a height of 2
feet.
Cultivation
In colder zones, start basil indoors in mid-spring. Sow the seeds
directly into the garden in warmer areas. Seedlings should not be set
outdoors until all danger of frost has past and the plant has four
true leaves. Plants can also be started from cuttings or rooted
suckers.
Once plants are established, pinch out the top to encourage a bushier
plant. Frequent harvesting of the outer leaves will prolong the life
of the plant.
Culinary use
Basil has a warm, resinous, clove-like flavor and fragrance. The
flowers and leaves are best used fresh and added only during the last
few minutes of cooking. Basil works well in combination with
tomatoes. Finely chopped basil stirred into mayonnaise makes a good
sauce for fish. Use as a garnish for vegetables, chicken and egg
dishes. Large lettuce-leaf basil can be stuffed as you would a grape
leaf. Basil does not dry well for cooking.
Pesto Sauce
1/3 cup fresh basil leaves
2 cloves garlic, crushed
pinch of salt
1/2 cup pine kernels
3/4 cup parmesan cheese
1/2 cup olive oil
Blend the basil leaves in a blender. If your supply of basil is
insufficient, combine fresh parsley and basil for a slightly
different flavor.
Add the garlic and olive oil and process for a few seconds. Gradually
add the pine kernels, Parmesan cheese and salt. The consistency
should be thick and creamy.
This quantity of pesto sauce is sufficient for 1 pound cooked,
drained pasta. Mix 2 tablespoons pesto with the pasta and serve on
individual plates with an extra spoonful of pesto on each helping.
Medicinal Use
To relieve sore gums, swish out the mouth often with a tea made from
8 basil leaves in a cup of boiling water. A basil leaf tucked into
the mouth over an ulcer and kept there for as long as possible will
ease the pain.
Other Uses
Basil in the bath is refreshing. Leaves and flowers can be dried for
potpourri. Burn sprigs of basil on the barbecue to deter mosquitoes.
A bunch of basil hung over the kitchen window or a pot of basil in
the windowsill will deter flies.
from Garden Guide
Secrets About Basil
Basil is described by Webster as being of the mint family used especially as
a seasoning. As you read this article you will find that basil is much more
than something we add to our spaghetti.
Basil's botanical name is Ocimium basilicum. It is a native of India, South
Asia, the Middle East and has been grown for thousands of years in the
Mediterranean region. Basil is found growing wild in tropical and
sub-tropical regions of the world.
There are many rituals and beliefs associated with basil. The French call
basil herb royale. In Italy it is a sign of love, romance and fine dining.
Jewish folklore suggests it adds strength while fasting. Basil was said to
be found in Christ's tomb after his resurrection. Greek Orthodox use basil
to prepare holy water and pots of basil are placed below church alters. In
Europe and India they place basil in the hands of the dead to ensure a safe
journey. The Egyptians and Grecians believe it will actually open the gates
of heaven for a person passing on.
Maybe all of us had better get out our garden tools, plant some basil and
begin to get prepared! Growing basil is something you definitely want to
try. Basil is an annual herb with a spicy, clove like fragrance and flavor.
Sow seeds indoors in the spring or plant seeds outside when all danger of
frost has passed and the ground is at least 50 degrees. Make sure you place
basil in a sheltered spot near your peppers and tomatoes to enhance growth.
Your plants should be placed 1 foot apart, 1/8 inch deep, in rich moist
light sandy soil, in full sun. Take care not to over water. Basil grows up
to 3 foot high and flowers in mid-to-late summer. Basil has a bushy
appearance with leafy stems. The leaves are very fragrant. Pick the leaves
when young. To encourage growth and a bushy plant, prune the main stem
leaving at least one node with two shoots. Do this before it flowers. Gather
the tops as the flowers open. To store basil, dry the leaves or brush the
leaves with oil and freeze.
There are many varieties of basil: Sweet Basil, Bush Basil, Dark Opal Basil,
Lemon Basil, Holy Basil, Vero Basil, Purple Ruffle Basil and the list goes
on. Sweet Basil and Bush Basil are best choices for culinary use.
Basil has been known for many years as an herbal remedy for diseases of the
brain, heart, lungs, kidneys, and the bladder. It is primarily a digestive
and nervous system aid. Infuse basil and use it as a tea for indigestion.
Inhale basil tea to relieve cold symptoms. A tonic can be made by steeping
basil leaves in wine for several hours. Basil has uplifting, energizing,
anti-depressant properties.
The dried leaves are used as snuff to relieve headaches and colds. Basil is
also used as an insect repellent. Place a pot of basil outside your door to
repel flies. Use basil essential oil on a bee sting (use only one drop, more
than one drop may irritate the skin) or crush the leaves and rub on cuts,
insect bites and stings.
Some of the ailments basil can treat are: anxiety, concentration,
indigestion, respiratory problems, colic, tight coughs, asthma, nervous
headaches, migraines, muscle tension, nerve pain, memory loss, insomnia,
infection, a stuffy head, colds, sinusitis, sore throats, bronchial
congestion, appetite loss, gas, diarrhea, and nausea.
Use basil flowers and leaves for an invigorating bath. Basil adds luster to
hair: brunettes, add it to a rosemary rinse, blondes, add it to a chamomile
rinse. Combine basil essential oil with other essential oils to make
perfumes and toilet water. Blends well with: Bergamot, geranium, hyssop,
neoili, marjoram, melissa and lavender.
Basil is very aromatic. Add dried basil to potpourri and sachets. Lemon
basil and opal basil are good choices.
Use basil as an ornamental; not because of its beautiful flowers, but
because it has beautiful shiny leaves that can offset other flowering
plants.
Last but not least, basil is very compatible with tomatoes. Basil is known
as the tomato herb. Use sweet basil in your pesto and tomato sauces.
Sprinkle dried or cut fresh basil over salads and sliced tomatoes. Basil
also goes well in soups, salads, eggs, fish and meat dishes.
The Herbal Approach Archives
* The information in this article should not replace the advice of your
medical practitioner.
Diane Kennedy Snyder is an Herb Specialist. She is the creator of Diane’s
Herbal Shop an online all natural herbal products gift store. Her company
uses natures herbs, herbal teas, and all natural ingredients to manufacture
quality soap and bath products that help relieve stress and skin problems.
Her products also pamper the body, mind, and soul.
The Herbal Approach © 1998-2000, The Mommy Mall
BASIL - SEEDS
Wind, Warts, Sneeze
French doctors seldom agreed on the cures in their Basilic, but then neither did the physicians of Greece or England.
Eating of too much Basill dry up milk & breeds wind. ~DIOSCORIDES (1st cent., Greek)~
The Seeds drunk (with wine) is good for them that are puff up with winds or that breed melancholy, to make warts to rise up by the Rootes, mix the Seeds with Shoemakers blacke, & apply it. The Seeds put into the nose cause sneezing, but when thou sneezeth, shut thine eyes lest they fall out. ~LANGHAM (1579, English~
Basil-
Basil (Ocymum Basilium, also known as Devil Plant) was called "The Herb of
Kings" by the ancient Greeks. The Egyptians burned a mixture of Basil and
Myrrh to appease their gods. In India the Basil plant is sacred to both
Krishna and Vishnu, and is cherished in every Hindu house, probably because
of it's virtues of disinfecting and freshening the air. Hindus believed that
if a leaf of Basil were buried with them, it would serve as their passport to
heaven. In Haiti Basil is thought to belong to the pagan love goddess
Erzulie. World wide over 150 varieties of Basil are grown, and it has a wide
range of uses from culinary to worship.
Magickal Uses:
It's old association with the basilisk explains Sweet Basil's contemporary
correspondences with salamanders (elemental creatures of fire) and dragons.
(The basilisk was a mythological reptile) Basil is a good herb for
protection, sympathy, wealth, prosperity, and love. Carry Basil in your
pockets to attract money. Basil is widely associated with rituals of
initiation, and the sabbat frequently associated with Basil is Candlemas. It
is an herb of purification and courage, for it helps one move forward in a
positive manner no matter how perilous the dangers. Basil is known for
protecting a seeker from fears one encounters when moving along a spiritual
path.
Medicinal and Other Uses:
One of Basil's medicinal properties is it can be used to draw out poison from
insect bites. Basil is valued for aiding digestion, and it is anti-bacterial.
It's also used for ringworm and internal parasites. It's said it has the
ability to reduce blood sugar levels. It also prevents peptic ulcers and
other stress related conditions like hypertension, colitis and asthma. Basil
is also used to treat cold and reduce fever, congestion and joint pain. Due
to its anti-bacterial and fungicide action, Basil leaves are used on itching
skin.
*****
Basil, or Ocimum basilicum, is an herb that falls under the Lamiaceae family of mints. It is also known as Thai Basil or Sweet Basil. It is frequently used in cooking for seasoning purposes. Originating in India, where it is known as Tulsi, and other tropical Asian regions, it is now grown in numerous different parts of the world. In India, one variety of the plant with black leaves is actually worshipped by the locals!
The Basil plant is bushy and it grows up to a height of about two feet. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It grows well under proper sunlight and on a well-drained soil. If it is grown indoors, heating cables can be useful. Not only are the health benefits of this herb countless, it is expected to have an overall mind-body effect.
Health Benefits of the Herb:
1. Enhances immunity: Basil aids the production of antibodies to fight against microbes and the diseases they bring with them on a general level. T-helper cells, which are responsible for fighting antigens and infections, get a production boost when the herb is consumed.
2. Helps in the treatment of specific diseases:
(a) Cough: Basil helps to prevent, restrict and heal infections in the throat and even in the respiratory tract up to a great extent. It slackens the respiratory tract and helps to expel out the mucus. As a result, it also has the ability to treat asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory diseases to some degree.
(b) Sore throat: Basil boiled in water can be very beneficial as it has a soothing effect on sore throats. If honey can be mixed with it, the results may be obtained even sooner and more effectively.
(c) Fever: Basil aids in keeping the body temperature of a person normal.
(d) Cold: Basil prevents and treats common cold by fighting infections and making it easier to cough out the mucus.
(e) Oral Infection: It fights oral infections and tones up the gums to make them stronger. Even the treatment of mouth ulcers is facilitated by basil.
(f) Tooth problems: Not only does it make gums stronger and healthier, it also prevents cavities and/or formation of plaque.
(g) Kidney stones: When renal failure occurs, the kidneys are not able to filter enough waste products from the blood. A kidney stone is an irregular concretion formed at the excretory passage of the kidneys. Consuming basil helps in the breaking up of the kidney stone, also known as a renal calculus.
3. Improves the nervous system: Not only does it strengthen the nervous system, it also enhances brain activity and is said to improve our mental concentration.
4. Heart care: Basil contains high amounts of beta-carotene and other carotenoids. These are strong antioxidants that provide cell protection from cholesterol and free radicals. Plus, it is rich in magnesium, which improves blood flow and cardiovascular health.
5. Cancer prevention: As the antioxidants and flavonoids help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, basils can actually help prevent some cancers.
6. Basil and a healthy gastrointestinal (GI) tract: Basil has certain anti-inflammatory properties that can provide relief from many kinds of conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), indigestion, constipation, stomach cramps and so on.
7. Skin care: The oil found in basil helps fight the bacteria that results in pimples. Therefore, it is recommended to apply basil-boiled water on the affected areas of the skin with a piece of cotton. You should wait at least 10 minutes before washing off the whole face with water. Also, such treatment reduces the pain and inflammation of skin resulting from an insect sting.
8. Headache and eye-related problems: It is a good pain-killer and gives some relief in case of headache or even a migraine. Since basil is rich in Vitamin A, it helps the eyes to function properly. Boiled basil water can also be used to clean the eyes to prevent any kind of disinfection in them.
9. Prevents and alleviates stress: Consumption of the herb is known to “stabilize” the mind. It contains phytochemicals which, according to studies, may lower cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone that we secrete when tensed.
Overall, besides its aromatic qualities and culinary benefits, basil features antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties that enhance individual well-being to the extent that it compels one to realize the importance of this herb for a long and healthy life
Basil, or Ocimum basilicum, is an herb that falls under the Lamiaceae family of mints. It is also known as Thai Basil or Sweet Basil. It is frequently used in cooking for seasoning purposes. Originating in India, where it is known as Tulsi, and other tropical Asian regions, it is now grown in numerous different parts of the world. In India, one variety of the plant with black leaves is actually worshipped by the locals!
The Basil plant is bushy and it grows up to a height of about two feet. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It grows well under proper sunlight and on a well-drained soil. If it is grown indoors, heating cables can be useful. Not only are the health benefits of this herb countless, it is expected to have an overall mind-body effect.
Health Benefits of the Herb:
1. Enhances immunity: Basil aids the production of antibodies to fight against microbes and the diseases they bring with them on a general level. T-helper cells, which are responsible for fighting antigens and infections, get a production boost when the herb is consumed.
2. Helps in the treatment of specific diseases:
(a) Cough: Basil helps to prevent, restrict and heal infections in the throat and even in the respiratory tract up to a great extent. It slackens the respiratory tract and helps to expel out the mucus. As a result, it also has the ability to treat asthma, bronchitis and other respiratory diseases to some degree.
(b) Sore throat: Basil boiled in water can be very beneficial as it has a soothing effect on sore throats. If honey can be mixed with it, the results may be obtained even sooner and more effectively.
(c) Fever: Basil aids in keeping the body temperature of a person normal.
(d) Cold: Basil prevents and treats common cold by fighting infections and making it easier to cough out the mucus.
(e) Oral Infection: It fights oral infections and tones up the gums to make them stronger. Even the treatment of mouth ulcers is facilitated by basil.
(f) Tooth problems: Not only does it make gums stronger and healthier, it also prevents cavities and/or formation of plaque.
(g) Kidney stones: When renal failure occurs, the kidneys are not able to filter enough waste products from the blood. A kidney stone is an irregular concretion formed at the excretory passage of the kidneys. Consuming basil helps in the breaking up of the kidney stone, also known as a renal calculus.
3. Improves the nervous system: Not only does it strengthen the nervous system, it also enhances brain activity and is said to improve our mental concentration.
4. Heart care: Basil contains high amounts of beta-carotene and other carotenoids. These are strong antioxidants that provide cell protection from cholesterol and free radicals. Plus, it is rich in magnesium, which improves blood flow and cardiovascular health.
5. Cancer prevention: As the antioxidants and flavonoids help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, basils can actually help prevent some cancers.
6. Basil and a healthy gastrointestinal (GI) tract: Basil has certain anti-inflammatory properties that can provide relief from many kinds of conditions, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), indigestion, constipation, stomach cramps and so on.
7. Skin care: The oil found in basil helps fight the bacteria that results in pimples. Therefore, it is recommended to apply basil-boiled water on the affected areas of the skin with a piece of cotton. You should wait at least 10 minutes before washing off the whole face with water. Also, such treatment reduces the pain and inflammation of skin resulting from an insect sting.
8. Headache and eye-related problems: It is a good pain-killer and gives some relief in case of headache or even a migraine. Since basil is rich in Vitamin A, it helps the eyes to function properly. Boiled basil water can also be used to clean the eyes to prevent any kind of disinfection in them.
9. Prevents and alleviates stress: Consumption of the herb is known to “stabilize” the mind. It contains phytochemicals which, according to studies, may lower cortisol. Cortisol is a hormone that we secrete when tensed.
Overall, besides its aromatic qualities and culinary benefits, basil features antioxidant, antimicrobial, and antiviral properties that enhance individual well-being to the extent that it compels one to realize the importance of this herb for a long and healthy life
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