Benefits of Basil

Basil is a member of lamiaceae family which also includes mint, oregano, sage, rosemary and catnip. Basil is full of medicinal properties and is very popular in Italian cooking. The flavonoids present in it protect our cells from getting damaged and protect our self structure from free radicals, which are harmful molecules.

Another component of basil called eugenaol has anti inflammatory properties. Regular intake helps in controlling health problems like ragumotoid, arthritis and inflammatory bowel conditions. You can either drink a cup of tea made by basil leaves two to three times in a day or use it in your food as a seasoning.

Basil helps in digestion and relieving flatulence. Make a tea by boiling some basil leaves in water. You can add milk and sugar for taste. Drinking it regularly can provide relief in constipation, gas or stomach cramps. It also helps in headache and anxiety due to its calming nature. By using it regularly in aroma therapy, you can get mental strength and clarity.

Beta-carotene and anti oxidants present in basil help preventing the build up of cholesterol in the blood stream and help blood vessel to relax by increasing the blood circulation. Basil oil prevents many food born disease bacteria to grow. It can also be given after surgery to heal the wound quickly and protect them from infection. It is a good source of magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium and vitamin-A. You can use it as a salad dressing or in recipes to give a nice flavor. Do make oil for salads pound the fresh leaves and mix with a vegetable or salad oil.

Regular massage with essential oil can bring luster to dull looking hair and skin. It improves the tone of the skin by treating acne and other skin infections. Using basil as often as possible is a good idea but excess of basil or basil oil should be avoided by pregnant and nursing women.