Who could possibly think that this exceedingly fragrant plant with pointed leaves that looks like peppermint and is commonly found in the kitchen can in fact provide several health benefits to man? Basil is a native of Africa and Asia, but it is now featured in many culinary fares in Italy, Laos, Thailand and Vietnam. Basil is popular in Italy, even making the herb a symbol of love, as the main ingredient in pesto. In India’s ancient cultures, basil is revered and is perceived as sacred, in fact making it a symbol of hospitality. Basil has approximately 60 varieties, each of which has distinct characteristics and smell. The health benefits of basil leaves, or Ocimum basilicum, can be found in its volatile oils and flavonoids.

1. It helps prevent acne

   Interestingly, basil has been used in preventing the growth of acne in many teenagers. Basil has anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties that can help those who are suffering from acne. The basil variety, Ocimum gratissimum, has been studied extensively and has proven to prevent acne. African wild basil essential oil has been compared with 10% benzoyl peroxide; it showed that there is 50 percent more decrease in the lesions caused by acne when basil oil is used than the chemical compound. Another variety of basil, Ocimum bacilicum and Ocimum sanctum, were also studied. These varieties are effective in deactivating Propionibacterium acnes, the type of bacteria linked to acne complications. By applying topical basil preparations onto the skin, as well as drinking basil tea, acne will be prevented.

2. It acts as an anti-depressant

   In ancient practices, twelve leaves of basil are chewed two times a day to help relieve the body from stress. Basil has long been believed to have a mood-enhancing effect in the body; it is being regarded as a nerve tonic as it helps relieve the body from fatigue and enhance the body’s mental capacity and memory. Basil as antidepressant can be used in two ways, either to drink as tea or as an aromatherapy.

3. It enhances immune system function

   Basil is considered as an adaptogen. Being described as an adaptogen means that it has the capacity to enhance the body in order for it to easily adapt to various environmental conditions. Therefore, if the body’s immune system is over stimulated, basil calms the immune system. If the body needs to increase the function of the immune system in order to defend from invading pathogens, basil activates the immune system.

4. It has anti-bacterial properties

   The volatile oil of basil has been shown to have extensive antibacterial properties. The volatile oil contains cineole, estragole, eugenol, limonene, linalool, myrcene and sabinene. According to several laboratory experiments, the volatile oils of basil has shown to be effective in stopping the growth of several common bacteria, such as Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, listeria monocytogenes, and Yersinia entercolitica. There is also evidence that species of bacteria that has become resistant to most antibacterial drugs are effectively stopped from growing when the essential oils of basil are used. Although this condition is not common, it may be alarming as it may result to widespread resistance among humans. By adding volatile oils in the dishes right before serving, food flavors are not only enhanced, but are also safeguarded from the growth of harmful bacteria coming from the fresh produce that when accumulated in the body, will cause infectious diseases.

5. It is rich in antioxidants

   Vitamin K, A and C and other vitamins and minerals found in basil makes this herb a potent antioxidant. But aside from the traditional nutrients, basil is also rich in phytonutrients that shows increasing antioxidant activities. Antioxidants are compounds that protect the cells from being subjected to oxidative stress brought about by the activities of the free radicals. Among the several phytonutrients, orientin and vicenin in basil has shown to have strong activities in protecting the white blood cells. Not only are these nutrients defending the cells from the oxidation, it also protects them from radiation, in the case of individuals undergoing radiation procedures, and of course from those over-exposed to sunlight.

6. It is anti-inflammatory

   Several extensive researches have been conducted on the volatile oil of basil leaves which contains eugenol. Studies discovered that this substance can exactly block cyclooxygenase, one of the enzymes that are responsible for the cascade of inflammatory responses in the body. Inhibiting cyclooxygenase, or Cox, is also the activity of ibuprofen and other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents. Basil leaves will not just prevent the development of symptoms of inflammatory diseases; it will also promote healing properties, esp. for those suffering from arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases.

7. It helps relieve nausea and vomiting

   For decades, basil has been used to relieve problems of nausea and vomiting. For some people it is effective, for others it is not. So far, there is no clear evidence about the claim that nausea and vomiting is allayed. According to folk medicine, however, basil has antispasmodic and carminative effect; therefore, basil tea is being used as digestive tonic to reduce indigestion stomach cramps and anything that involves problems with the digestive system. To be assured, before using basil to relieve from nausea and vomiting, consult physician first, especially if the reason for the condition is pregnancy.

8. It regulates blood pressure

   Just two teaspoons of basil can already provide the body with essential nutrients that help in regulating the blood pressure and therefore protect the health of the cardiovascular system. First, basil can offer 60 percent of the required vitamin K daily requirement. Vitamin K is responsible for the blood to clot normally, thus preventing the arteries to work harder and therefore regulating the blood pressure. Next, basil’s vitamin K prevents calcium build-up in soft tissues, such as arteries. If calcium is prevented from accumulating, hardening of arteries is also prevented. It should be known that hardened arteries, or arteriosclerosis, are one of the causes of hypertension. Next, basil is a good source of vitamin A, particularly carotenoids. With carotenoids, the epithelial cells that line the arteries are protected, as well as the prevention of free radicals from oxidizing the cholesterol resulting to accumulation within the walls of the arteries causing increased blood pressure. Lastly, basil is also a good source of magnesium, an element that can relax the arteries and veins, preventing blood pressure problems.

In order to enjoy the flavor, as well as the health benefits of basil, combine freshly chopped basil with olive oil and garlic to make a simple pesto that can be topped on fish dishes, bruschetta and mixed with pasta. Fresh basil leaves may also be mixed in the salad containing plain tomatoes and cheese. For those who love stir-fries, add basil to cabbage, chili peppers, eggplants, tofu and cashew nuts for that extra crunch. Basil may also be pureed and added in soups. If tea is your cup of tea, then basil tea is for you. Just add chopped basil leaves in boiling water and you can spend the afternoon refreshed and assured that your health is protected by this mighty basil leaves.

Sources
livestrong.com
health-in-nature.com
stopacne.com
livestrong.com
whfoods.org
helpmydepression.info