Basil is one of the oldest and most healthy herbs known to mankind. For centuries, its healing properties have been used in the preparation of herbal medicines. The herb has several varied species, including lemon basil, holy basil, lettuce-leaf basil, sweet basil, lemon basil, Italian basil, and Thai basil. The flavor and aroma of basil are dependent on the concentration of essential volatile oils contained in the herb. These essential oils include citronellol, cinnamate, Linalool, pinene, terpineol, and geraniol. These oils are majorly responsible for the medicinal benefits of basil leaves.
Basil is also an important ingredient in various stews and cuisines. Apart from its inviting flavor, the herb helps to preserve and improve the properties of the food. From boosting immunity to a healthy gut, the health benefits of basil leaves are numerous.
The health benefits of basil leaves include:
Aids Digestion
Basil facilitates metabolism, fortifies the digestive and is an excellent remedy for insomnia and headaches. As a matter of fact, the eugenol found in the leaves has anti-inflammatory properties that are good for the digestive tract. What basil does is to balance the acid in the body and enhance the body’s proper pH level.
Managing Arthritis
If you’ve suffered from arthritis, then you understand how a painful it can as it often results in physical disability. Luckily, basil contains beta-caryophyllene which is effective in pain management. Some other anti-inflammatory chemicals in basil also help soothe the burning sensation in the joints brought upon by arthritis. In fact, according to a study carried out on rats, they become arthritis-free after consuming basil in their diet.
Contains Anti-inflammatory Properties
Basil contains strong anti-inflammatory components that can cure a variety of diseases and health problems. The potent essential oils, including linalool, eugenol, and citronellol all help reduce inflammation through their enzyme-preventing properties. The anti-inflammatory properties of basil may also help in reducing the risk of inflammatory bowel conditions, heart disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. The consumption of basil soothes headaches, cold, cough, sore throat, and flu fever.
Combats Free Radicals
Basil contains a variety of natural antioxidants that help in protecting body tissues against the damage caused by free radicals (unstable atoms). For atoms to be stable, they get electrons from other atoms and create chains of free radicals. These chains can lead to oxidative stress in the body and result in more damage to the cells. To lower the oxidative stress in the body, the consumption of antioxidants should increase. In fact, basil contains two essential water-soluble flavonoid antioxidants called viceninare and orientin. These powerful antioxidants help to protect cell structures, boost the immune system, and protect the skin against premature aging.
Alleviates Post Menstrual Syndrome
Every lady understands how periods can be very painful for some women. Experiencing cramps, tiredness, and depression are all symptoms of post menstrual syndrome. Thankfully, the manganese found in basil helps to provide the needed relief by regulating the hormones in the body, lower stress and reduce fatigue.
Enhances Skin Appearance
Basil’s is made up of powerful oil that cleanses the skin internally. The herb is an excellent skin cleanser that is suited for those with oily skin. Additionally, it helps eliminate dirt that clogs pores. You only need to make a paste of the leaves and add sandalwood paste and rose water. The paste can be applied on the face and left to sit for about 20 minutes before it is washed off with cold water. The potent antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of basil would help inhibit acne from forming on the face.
Possesses Anti Oxidants for Cancer
Basil contains anthocyanins and phenolics, which are good antioxidants. They protect the body from reactive oxygen species that are the primary cause of cancerous cell formation.
Fights Depression
Basil’s essential oil may help manage depression and anxiety too. The herb is believed to stimulate neurotransmitters that regulate the hormones responsible for inducing happiness and energy. Basil is considered as a powerful adaptogen or an anti-stress agent. Its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties help manage stress too.
For Healthy Eyes
BasiI contains beta-carotene, an important compound that helps inhibit the degeneration of muscle. The herb is also an amazing source of vitamin A and Ascorbic acids that help to treat Stargardt’s disease and the dry eye syndrome.
Manages Diabetes
The consumption of basil leaves helps to facilitate slow release of sugar in the blood, which is very vital for diabetics. Basil has a very reduced glycemic load. What more, the essential oil found in basil also helps reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels, which is a responsible for the high-risk factor amongst people who are diabetic.
Detoxifies the Body
Basil contains very potent detox properties that help in keeping the liver healthy. We all know that the liver is a very important organ for the body as it plays aids metabolism and prevents fat build-up in the liver.
Promotes a Healthy Gut
Basil also is also perfect for restoring the body’s natural pH levels and promotes healthy bacteria within the gut microflora. Of course, a healthy gut flora facilitates healthy digestion and boosts immunity.
Strengthens Bones
Bone density loss can result in fragile bone development and certain other bone-related problems and health conditions. Women are particularly vulnerable owing to the fact that osteoporosis is more common in women than in men. Additionally, basil contains significant amounts of vitamin K, which very helpful in promoting healthy bones. Vitamin K also helps in the quick absorption of calcium.
Treats Stomach Upset
For many years, the essential volatile oil found in basil has been used in traditional remedy and in treating a range of stomach problems in addition to alleviating indigestion. Basil intake could help in reducing water retention and bloating. The herb also stimulates the loss of appetite and treats acid reflux too.
The Bottom Line
Evidently, the benefits of basil leaves are numerous and should be incorporated in our daily diet. So, enjoy the delicious culinary delights and amazing health benefits of this beautiful herb.
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