From reducing stress to eliminating acne, basil has a number of health applications. More than just a flavorful herb, basil possesses powerful mind and body benefits. The herb is an effective treatment to reduce inflammation, eliminate infection and detox the body.
What Is Basil?
Resembling peppermint in looks, basil is a leafy green plant with round and pointed leaves. A highly aromatic herb, basil has a peppery, minty flavor. Studies suggest that basil has health-protecting effects in two specific areas: flavonoids and volatile oils.
Basil is comprised of a unique array of active components known as flavonoids that protect the body on a cellular level. Two of the main flavonoids include orientin and cicenin that protect the body from radiation and oxygen-based damage.
Basal also protects the body against bacterial growth and infection. The components in the herb responsible for this protection are volatile oils including estragole, linalool, cineole, eugenol, sabinene, myrcene and limonene.
Health Benefits of Basil
In addition to its natural flavonoids and volatile oils, basil also contains a number of vitamins and minerals that make it effective at promoting health. The herb contains beneficial amounts of vitamin K, vitamin A, manganese, copper, vitamin C and other nutrients. All of these factors combined, make basil an effective treatment for a variety of health conditions.
In addition to promoting cellular health and preventing infection, basil also reduces inflammation, supports cardiovascular health and promotes healthy cell growth. As such, basil is often used for treating common conditions including burning tongue, spider bites, cardiovascular disease and others.
Basil also has a positive effect on the nervous system, making it an effective treatment for stress-related conditions. This herb can also be used to treat conditions including depressive moods, anxiety, sleep problems and insomnia, eating disorders including bulimia nervosa and other general anxiety disorders.
Basil is more than just an appropriate flavor to use in spaghetti sauce. This herb has specific health benefits that make it an effective treatment for a variety of health conditions. From anxiety to acne, basil combats infection, supports cellular health, reduces inflammation and promotes good general health.
