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The Healing Benefits of Basil

14 May 2018

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body benefit antioxidants

Beautiful Basil

Basil belongs to the herb family and is traditionally used as medicine but most of all it adds flavour to a number of recipes. Other aromatic herbs that belong to the mint family include oregano, mint and rosemary - all are nutrient dense and proven to prevent a number of health conditions.

Basil’s culinary purpose is common around the world, it’s aroma is pleasing to the nostrils. It’s unique scent comes from its own essential oil like the methyl, eugenol, linalool and chavicol. Amongst ancient cultures (such as the Greek, Italian and Indian) they all looked at this herb from a spiritual aspect. The Greek people considered basil as noble and royal; the Italians consider it as symbol of love and in India, it symbolises hospitality.

Basil is rich in fibre and a good source of vitamins such as Vitamin A, C and K. Other healthy benefits of basil are the following:

Rich in antioxidants. Herbs and spices like basil are generally an incredibly rich source of antioxidants and anti inflammatory properties that are beneficial to your health. Regular consumption of basil in moderate amounts can greatly improve your wellbeing. In July 2013, a study published by Journal of Methods in Microbiology showed that the essential oils found in basil can inhibit strains like Staphylococcus, Enterococcus and Pseudomonas Bacteria. Eating raw basil leaves can protect the body against bacteria and can fight off infections naturally.

Improve Digestion. Basil is rich in fibre which can help to improve digestion and better bowel movement. It also has a calming effect that can get rid a bloated stomach leaving you with a lighter feeling. Another component in basil which is phytochemicals can fight Staphylococcus Aureus infection preventing the body from diarrhoea.

Fighting Cancer. As mentioned, phytochemicals in basil can prevent cancer; cancer such as skin, oral, liver and lung cancers. The high antioxidant component in basil leaves can effectively fight free radicals the cause of excessive cell growth or popularly known as cancer.

Healthy Skin. Basil is a powerful skin cleanser and can heal oily skin or clogged pores. It removes dirt and impurities leaving the skin clean, healthy, moist and glowing.

Liver Health. Basil helps prevent fat build up that usually takes place in the liver. It restores the body’s natural pH levels keeping the gut flora healthy to promote healthy digestion. Daily consumption of basil can improve the number of detoxifying enzyme in liver.

Other benefits include: better vision, strong bones and teeth, control body acidity, improve sexual desire, fight depression, treat fungal infection and prevent diabetes. I can go on and on sharing about the benefits of basil. To summarise, basil in salad or drinks can definitely give your health the boost it needs!

Please Note: like all foods we consume, the more natural and organic the food is, the better it will be for your health and the more powerful benefits it will provide.