Basil Leaves

Basil is a culinary herb that belongs to the mint family. The scientific name of basil is Ocimum basilicum. It is native to warm, tropical regions of Asia and is grown in large scale in Iran, India, southern parts of Asia, etc. Basil leaves are light green in color with a soft texture and refreshing strong aroma. It is widely used for seasoning foods particularly in Italian cuisine. It also features in cuisines of Thailand, Vietnam, Taiwan, Cambodia and so on.

Medicinal Value of Basil Leaves

Fresh leaves of basil is a rich source of folic acid which has a major role in various metabolic processes. It contains a good amount of essential vitamins like vitamin C and K and important minerals such as magnesium, calcium, iron and potassium. The leaves have a component named beta-carotene which has amazing antioxidant properties. This antioxidant protect the body cells from the damage caused by free radicals. Thus it prevents premature aging of the cells and reduces the risk of various age related diseases such as cancer and arthritis.

There are many different varieties of basil like lemon basil, red basil, cinnamon basil and so on. The leaves of all these varieties of basil contains essential oils in varying proportions. Basil essential oil have a component named eugenol which act as an anti-inflammatory agent. Swelling or inflammation in human body is triggered by certain enzyme known as cyclooxygenase. Eugenol can suppress the activity of this enzyme and thus, bring down the inflammation.

Health Benefits

Basil leaves is often used as a herbal medicine and have an amazing effect on several health problems. Some of the major benefits are as follows:

Basil leaves are popularly used for treating the symptoms of common cold and flu. The best part is that it can be safely given to small children without fear of any side effects. Simply chewing fresh basil leaves can bring a lot relief to the annoying cough. To treat sore throat, boil some leaves in water and then use it for gargling. Fresh basil juice extracted from its leaves can bring down the fever. For this, boil 6-7 basil leaves, some cloves and a pinch of common salt in a glass of water and drink this decoction after a gap of every 2-3 hours.

Basil leaves is highly effective on chronic upper respiratory disorder like asthma, bronchitis and sinus infection. Boil some leaves with a small piece of ginger and then add some honey to the decoction. It should be taken daily in order to get best results.

Magnesium present in basil leaves relaxes the muscles and blood vessels and improve blood circulation in the body. Thus if taken regularly, it reduces the chances of various cardiovascular disease.

Basil leaves improves the functioning of the kidneys. Those who have kidney stones should take freshly extracted basil juice mixed with equal amount of honey everyday for 6 months. This will facilitate elimination of kidney stones through urinary tract.

Basil leaves are good for digestive system. Basil juice obtained from its leaves can be used for curing stomach ache or cramps. Mix one teaspoon of basil juice with equal amount of ginger juice and have it. It will ease off the pain almost instantly. Basil tea is beneficial for various common stomach problems like constipation, indigestion, acidity, etc.

Basil provides excellent solution for various skin problems such as acne, ringworm, psoriasis and insect bites. When fresh juice of basil is applied on skin, its anti-inflammatory properties reduces the skin inflammation and provide relief. Moreover, it can have a hydrating effect on the dull, dry skin and make it a soft, supple and healthy. This is possible because of presence of vitamin C, beta carotene and various minerals in it.

Basil leaves is good for oral health too. Dry some leaves and make a powder out of it. Use it as a toothpaste by mixing a little mustard oil to this powder. It can fight off bad breath and various other periodontal diseases.

The strong aroma of basil essential oil has a soothing effect on our senses. Consumption of basil leaves have an amazing effect on various problems associated with stress like headache, depression. Those who have migraine problem can apply a thick paste of basil leaves and sandalwood powder on the forehead for faster relief.

Keeping the freshness of basil leaves intact while storing them in refrigerator is difficult. You should wrap them up in paper towels and put them inside a plastic bag before placing it in fridge. To store dry basil leaves, put them in an air tight container. Make sure you use it up within one year. If you add it into your daily cuisines to yield medicinal benefits of basil, then make sure you add the leaves only after removing it from heat. This is because heat destroys vitamins and minerals present in the leaves.