Basil Health Benefits & Nutritional Information
Basil, also known as sweet basil, is an herb from the ‘Lamiaceae’ family. Its biological name is Ocimum basilicum and in some countries it is also known as ‘Saint Joseph’s Wort’. This herb from the mint family features mostly in Italian cuisine. Fresh basil is the best, but if that is not available, even dried basil can be used as a substitute.Basil also has many benefits including many health benefits. In many cultures across the world it is accorded a holy herb status and there are versions of the herb in different countries. In India, there is a version called tulsi or holy basil; in Southeast Asia, it is called Thai basil and African blue, which is a rare form of basil.
There are up to 60 types of basil across the world. The herb is known to have many anti inflammatory traits which help build immunity and prevent general infections. Basil contains polyphenolic flavonoids like vicenin and orientin which give antioxidant protection to the body.
Basil’s anti bacterial properties can also reduce effects of radiation.
A Nutritional Inclusion: Basil’s nutrition facts are plenty, but it cannot be a supplement to daily mineral and vitamin intakes. It serves as an added mineral benefit when included in everyday cooking. Nutrients in basil include iron, calcium, vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin K, manganese, magnesium, potassium and some dietary fiber.
In two teaspoons of dried basil, you will get 7 calories. Basil is high in iron and can be included in daily diet so that there is higher blood production. These calories are even fewer if you have fresh basil.
Basil For Skin – Acne, Eczema
Basil is even used for the treatment of acne because of its anti inflammatory properties. In external applications or in the form of basil tea can be very beneficial. The linolenic acid in it helps control the pimple and even blemishes or blackheads. Eating large quantities of it have been known to cause contraindications, so one should be careful while trying this home remedy.
Eczema: It is also an effective home remedy for eczema. Squeezed or crushed leaves when applied on itchy skin can provide relief from symptoms of eczema. Holy basil leaves, crushed with neem leaves, provide immediate relief from eczema symptoms. This herb is also good for cardiovascular health due to the magnesium in it, and it has also been known to reduce cholesterol. It even contains beta carotene which counteracts the effect of free radicals. More on nutrition benefits of holy basil
Basil For Diabetes
Basil tea is also known to be beneficial for the purpose. The essential oils in basil make it a good herb for diabetics too. The essentials oils help the pancreas to improve its function and produce insulin more effectively. Diabetics need to include this herb as a part of their everyday diet by adding it to salads, sandwiches, soups and even chewing a few leaves by themselves. Diabetics can take up to 2.5 grams of dried holy basil but this is not meant to replace medication and should not be taken as a substitute. If you plan to discontinue your medication, it should be because the doctor has asked you to. Holy basil is also known to improve blood pressure, improve respiratory function and increase overall energy.
Other Nutrition Benefits:
Kidney: Kidney problems can be quite crucial and therefore it is better to care for your kidneys. Basil is used for reducing kidney stones and to heal kidney infection. Basil juice with honey is a commonly used home remedy to dissolve kidney stones. This concoction can reduce the stones so that they can become easy to pass or even completely dissolve them. These home remedies should not be considered a substitute for actual treatment. Hair Loss: Basil is even used in treating hair loss. It increases blood flow to the roots and is therefore used in a number of gels and tonics for hair growth. Basil helps the hair root, strengthens the hair shaft, provides antioxidants and moisture to the hair follicles, all of which improve hair strength and quality.
Pregnancy:
Basil, especially holy basil, is an herb pregnant women are asked to keep away from. Basil is used for inducing labor, so only if your pregnancy is overdue, you could have basil or basil tea. Though research has not yet proved it conclusively, it is best that pregnant women stay away from basil. There are herbal treatments that use basil and basil in programs for infertility so results are still mixed. However, these home remedies could have contraindications so do check with your doctor before you do use this herb.
Indigestion: Basil is often used in tonics for digestion and is known to reduce and even prevent indigestion. Including basil regularly in the diet can even help prevent acid reflux. It is often used in tonics. It helps improve memory, sharpen concentration and get rid of mucus lodged in the lungs. It is even considered good for weight loss. Regular consumption of holy basil is believed to reduce cortisol levels in the body, elevated due to stress. Constant elevated levels of cortisol can lead to weight gain. Before consuming huge quantities of holy basil, you need to check with your doctor as it has been known to cause some irregularities if had in large quantities. Basil is known to reduce blood clotting. Healing Properties: Basil is also known to provide protection against unwanted bacterial growth. This protection is from the oils with flavonoids that exist in the basil, like linalool, cineole, eugenol, myrcene and limonene. Basil can restrict the growth of bacteria like staphylococcus aureus and E.coli. If basil is not available, you can use basil oil. Basil oil, in small concentrations, is also known to reduce Shigella, a bacterial infection known to cause diarrhea and possible intestinal damage. Eugenol has enzymes that are used in over-the-counter anti inflammatory medication. Regular consumption of basil can help relieve symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, osteoarthritis and irritable bowel syndrome. Basil, drunk with water, really helps in colds and coughs especially for children. |
