The many and diverse benefits of basil

Basil and its derivatives, such as its essential oil, make it one of the most versatile plants due to its medicinal, culinary and topical qualities. Basil, as well as its pure oil, are an essential ally due to their protective effects and antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory and even repellent properties.  But there is much more.

Learn what basil can do in your kitchen

Apart from being one of the emblematic herbs of Mediterranean preparations, especially Italian cuisine, basil provides important benefits.

Whether the plant is fresh or dried and powdered, it has a strong gastro-protective power.  A 1999 study found that basil oil (non-essential) has the ability to protect the stomach from ulcers caused by various irritants such as aspirin, alcohol, and stress.  ( 1 )

Imagine being able to control stress, anxiety and inflammation with a delicious aromatic basil water.  You will see later that there are several kinds, but for this purpose, sweet basil leaves such as Tulsi (Indian holy basil) or Thai basil will do the trick.

Of course, basil essential oil (EO) has these qualities and in an intense way, due to the distillation process that is responsible for grouping and enhancing all the properties of the plant.

BENEFITS

Healthy Digestion

Basil improves digestion. It strengthens the digestive and nervous systems and can be a good remedy for headaches and insomnia, according to the book Healing Foods (DK Publications).  The eugenol present in its leaves ensures an anti-inflammatory action in the digestive tract.  Basil helps balance the body's acid-base levels by restoring its pH.

Relieves stomach upset

Basil essential oil has been valued as a traditional remedy for treating a variety of stomach problems in addition to treating indigestion.  Basil consumption is said to reduce inflammation and fluid retention.  It may even stimulate appetite control and may also help relieve reflux.

- Antibacterial

Antibiotic-resistant bacteria is a growing threat worldwide, and science is seeking solutions to contain the bacteria before these “superbugs,” as they have been called, become a pandemic.  At the same time, there are natural products that can be used in a less harsh manner to control the most common antibiotic-resistant harmful bacteria, and basil is one of them. ( 2 )

- Antifungal

A mixture of mint and basil essential oils (EOs) has been used to eliminate fungi from plants and fruits such as peaches ( 3 ) and also in the treatment against aflatoxins B1 and the growth of Apergillus flavus ( 4 ), demonstrating its effectiveness as an antifungal.

Colon health

Since basil has a pH restoring property, it helps preserve healthy bacteria in the intestinal flora.  A healthy flora increases immunity and thus promotes healthy digestion.

Anti-inflammatory

Basil and its strong anti-inflammatory property may prove to be a cure for a variety of disorders and diseases.  Essential oils that include eugenol, citronellol and linalool help reduce inflammation thanks to their properties that act by inhibiting the enzymes involved.

These anti-inflammatory properties of basil are said to help the body in various ways by reducing heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis and irritable bowel syndrome.  Consuming basil can relieve fever, headache, sore throat, cough and flu.

Arthritic inflammation

But its anti-inflammatory or allogeneic properties go further. According to a 2013 study , basil exhibits remarkable anti-inflammatory qualities. Although the study only looked at mice, the essential oil was found to help relieve symptoms of arthritic inflammation. Anti-inflammatory properties are found in many varieties, including sweet basil, Thai basil, and holy basil.

Antidepressant

Basil essential oil helps relieve depression and anxiety.  This plant is believed to stimulate neurotransmitters that regulate hormones responsible for inducing joy and vigor.  Basil is considered an adaptogen or anti-stress agent.  Its anti-inflammatory and immunoprotective properties help control stress and feelings associated with this condition.

Diabetes control

Basil may affect the speed of blood sugar production, which is essential for diabetics.  In addition, it has a very low glycemic load.  The essential oil present in basil reduces triglyceride and LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein) levels, which are a persistent risk factor among diabetics.

Supports liver function and helps detoxify the body

The strong detoxifying properties of basil are beneficial for liver health.  Basil helps prevent the accumulation of fat in the liver and maintains its health, which is crucial for the more than 500 functions that this important organ has in the body.( 5 )

Oral health

As an effective antibacterial, basil essential oil provided beneficial results to 40 participants in a 2014 study in which basil EO was mixed with melaleuca (tea tree) EO and clove EO in a mouthwash. This mixture was successful in inhibiting gingivitis and other microbes present in the mouth.

Insect repellent

Basil EO goes further in terms of protection against mosquitoes.  Its compounds include many known phytochemicals that keep bugs away and that mixed with other essential oils (EO) make an optimal repellent.

Basil helps relieve irritation in case of bites and infections due to its antimicrobial properties.

TYPES OF BASIL

Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum)

It is the basil that we know and that varies from small leaves to the Genovese type that are large, used in Italian cuisine preparations such as pesto.

Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum or sanctum)

Holy basil or tulsi has a more pungent, clove-like aroma and flavour, due to a relatively high content of the chemical compound eugenol (which is also present in cloves) compared to other basil varieties.

Tulsi in all its forms, whether fresh, dried or powdered, has many healing properties.  It is a sacred herb in India and has many uses in both Ayurvedic medicine and in the culinary field; and it is believed that one of the best ways to obtain its benefits is by drinking its tea.

Like other types of basil, the benefits are similar to each other, such as regulating blood sugar levels, oral health and treating arthritis.

Additionally, tulsi is often consumed in tea form to treat malaria, diarrhea, dysentery, skin diseases, arthritis, eye diseases, and insect bites.  And especially for,

Prevent respiratory disorders

From the common cold and cough to bronchitis and asthma.  It has immuno-modulatory properties (boosts the immune system), expectorant (helps expel phlegm) that provide relief to the respiratory system.  The presence of eugenol, linoleic acid and citronellol that help relieve congestion.

Relieves stress

According to studies, tulsi tea helps control the levels of the hormone cortisol also known as the stress hormone in the body.  So holy basil lowers cortisol providing a calming sensation.

Thai basil (Ocimum thyrsiflora)

Used in culinary preparations in Southeast Asia.  It has an aroma similar to licorice.

Lemon basil (Ocimum citriodorum)

With a citrusy sensation that is also used in Asian cuisine.

RECOMMENDED MIXTURES WITH BASIL EO

In aromatherapy, thanks to its concentration, basil essential oil emits a warm, sweet, fresh, floral and crisp herbaceous aroma that is also characterized by being airy, vibrant, stimulating and reminiscent of the aroma of licorice.

This essential oil is used to stimulate, calm, invigorate and energize the mind.

When used topically, it nourishes, repairs, balances and exfoliates to soften and brighten the skin. It is used to relieve skin irritations.

On the scalp it performs a cleansing, refreshing action, softening and strengthening the hair.

Quickly relieves joint pain, colic, muscle pain, spasms, gout, flatulence and fatigue.  It is said to help stabilize irregular menstruation.

In an article by Dr. Eric Zielinski, he suggests taking advantage of basil's protective abilities by mixing it with other antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory oils. As a slightly spicy, herbaceous oil, it blends well with oils with subtle, fresh scents.

Chamomile, lavender and basil for healing

Citrus, basil and tea tree for cleansing

Basil, eucalyptus and cardamom as insecticides

Carrier oil dilutions included in culinary recipes

Clove, tea tree oil and basil as a mouthwash, with mint for good measure.

Basil's flexibility in aroma blending, protective effects in almost every sense, and overall safe and easy application steps make it an underrated essential oil.

Side effects or risks of consuming basil

Basil oil contains estragole, which is a natural ingredient in several aromatic plants. Estragole has been studied as a carcinogen, particularly in mice. But in 2005, the European Medicines Agency (EMEA) set the acceptable daily dose for humans at 0.5 milligrams (mg) and issued a draft public statement in 2014 concluding that the amount of estragole exposure people typically get from consuming herbal medicinal products "does not pose a significant risk of cancer." So you probably shouldn't be concerned about your exposure to it in food or tea.

CULINARY PREPARATIONS

Fresh basil pesto

To use in all kinds of Italian preparations such as pasta, soups, on bread with tomato, in short, to give free rein to your imagination.

Servings: 2 cups

Ingredients:

2 cups fresh basil leaves

1 clove of garlic

A pinch of salt

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese.  Vegan version : nutritional yeast.

1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

1/3 cup pine nuts or sunflower seeds

Preparation:

• Blend the basil leaves, garlic and salt in a food processor.
• Pulse until the paste is formed
• Add the grated cheese/nutritional yeast and mix to incorporate.
• With the processor running, slowly pour in the olive oil
• Add the pine nuts and process until soft.

Herbal Basil Vinegar

Recipe by Stacy Karen

Making herb vinegar is very easy. Simply place the basil herbs in a clean bottle and pour the vinegar over them until they are completely covered.  Cover the jar and let the flavors blend for a few weeks.  Once the vinegar is ready, strain the basil leaves and store the vinegar in an airtight jar.

Servings: 2 cups

Ingredients:

2 cups vinegar (you can use white vinegar or cider vinegar preferably)

1 cup fresh basil leaves (or 1/2 cup dried leaves)

Preparation:

• Using a mortar, chop the basil leaves.
• put them in the bottle where the infusion will be made.
• Pour the vinegar over the leaves and seal tightly.
• Keep in a dark place at room temperature for at least a week.
• Check the flavor from time to time until it reaches your liking.
• After three weeks, if the flavor is not strong enough, add more herbs and mix again.
• Once you reach the desired flavor, strain out the herbs and pour the vinegar into a clean bottle with a tight-fitting lid and label.

Broccoli cream with basil

This easy recipe from SkinnyMs comes together quickly and combines a variety of healing foods that are fantastic for detoxing. Broccoli, zucchini, white onion, garlic, lemon, walnuts, basil, and vegetable broth come together for a rich and delicious soup that is deeply comforting and cleansing.

Ingredients:

30 ml extra virgin olive oil or coconut oil (2 tablespoons)

1/2 cup white onion, chopped

1 cup green zucchini, diced

Sea salt to taste

4 cups steamed broccoli florets

4 cups of vegetable broth

2 cloves of garlic

Ground black pepper

1/3 cup raw walnuts, pre-soaked for 3 hours in filtered water and then rinsed and strained.

1 tablespoon lemon juice

6-8 fresh basil leaves

1/2 cup broccoli sprouts

Preparation:

1. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan with a lid over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
2. Add onions, zucchini and salt to taste.  Cook onions and zucchini until soft (7-8 minutes)
3. In a high-speed blender, blend these vegetables along with the steamed broccoli, 1/2 cup broth, garlic, pepper, and drained walnuts.  Blend until you get a creamy mixture.
4. Then heat the soup at a low temperature without letting it come to a boil.  Taste, adjust seasonings.
5. Add  basil leaves, lemon juice and broccoli sprouts
6. Serve
7. If there is any leftover, you can store it for a few hours in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove at a low temperature.

Nutritional content per serving (2 cups):

Calories: 329kcal | Carbohydrates: 37g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 17g | Saturated Fat: 3g | Cholesterol: 2mg | Sodium: 532mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 8g

Garlic bread with basil butter

Preparation time

25 minutes

Servings: 6

To prepare this delicious bread whose original recipe I learned on kitchenlovenest you will need the following:

Ingredients:

• 60 gr of butter/ or vegetable butter (not margarine)/ or ghee
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• A large bunch of fresh basil
• A bunch of flat parsley (1/3 of the amount of basil used)
• 2 cloves of garlic
• A long onion branch
• Salt to taste
• 1 pinch of pepper
• 1 loaf of French bread (for low carb/keto option see here)
• 1 1/2 cups Parmesan cheese (original version)/ nutritional yeast (vegan version)

Preparation:

1. Combine all ingredients in a food processor (or blender is fine too) except the bread and Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast.
2. Cut the bread into slices lengthwise and spread with the basil butter.
3. Put the slices of bread with butter in the oven for 10 minutes at a temperature of 200ºC
4. Remove the slices from the oven and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast.
5. Return to the oven and heat to 220ºC until the cheese melts or the nutritional yeast is incorporated.
6. Serve.

Get to Know DoTerra's Basil Essential Oil

To reap the benefits of Basil EO essential oil, you can get it here and add it to your medicine cabinet, pantry, and even as an ingredient in your personal care and household products.

Learn more here .