REASON WHY BASIL IS INDISPENSABLE IN EVERY HOUSEHOLD
- Gavrilev
- Jun 20, 2017
- 3 min read
*For purposes of clarity I'd like to mention that the below points refer to what is commonly known as Sweet Basil , not the Holy Basil, locally called Tulsi. Although belonging to the same family, these two plants each have their own benefits and uses of their own.*
This is not the best way to start a post about the many benefits of a plant but I have killed many a potted green shrubs and weeds(R.I.P) during my stay in Karachi and it's mostly due to my inability to wrap my head around the differences in soil quality and climate conditions(from my home country) and tending to the needs of plants according to these conditions.
Recently, though, I got a basil plant from Dumloti Organic Farm and , although i expressed my reluctance towards tending to yet another plant i was certain I would kill, I received a lot of encouragement from the stall owner (and with it seemingly a heartfelt blessing) cause my basil plant is ALIVE, happy and serving its purpose to the fullest.You see, I love aromatic plants, including thyme, marjoram, oregano, basil, and I especially love drinking their warm, aromatic infusions (a batch of fresh pesto also doesn't hurt from time to time) but I always had difficulty keeping these plants alive long enough to reap the benefits of their freshness.
ORAL HEALTH
Chewing basil leaves keeps teeth from decaying. Basil can also cure mouth ulcers.
NERVOUS SYSTEM TONIC
Basil tea stimulates the nervous system, helps clear the mind and improves memory.It is one of the best choices for a refreshing caffeine free boost. Its low but potent alkaloid content positively affects the nervous system, which is why it is commonly used in treating migraines, anxiety and insomnia.
CARDIOVASCULAR HEALTH BENEFITS
Basil is rich in carotenoids which prevent oxidation of cholesterol on blood vessels, reducing the risk of heart attacks and atherosclerosis.It relaxes muscles and blood vessels due to its Mg content, helping blood circulation.
DIGESTIVE AID
Its antispasmodic properties particularly benefit the digestive system. Basil leaves are made into an infusion to aid indigestion, loss of appetite,abdominal cramps, nausea,intestinal colic, gastritis, flatulence and bloating.
It is also a valuable aid in expelling intestinal worms.
IMMUNITY
Its antibacterial and anti inflammatory properties help fight bacterial and viral infections (cold, flu and even herpes) and strengthens immunity by killing germs that facilitate viral infections.
ARTHRITIS
Regular consumption of basil can help reduce and control arthritis symptoms due to its eugenol content which has anesthetic properties.
OTHER
Among other beneficial uses of basil is worth mentioning its ability to maintain a healthy lipid layer by reducing the speed of transformation of sugar to fat.It is also believed to stimulate lactation. Topical application works wonders for acne and clear complexion.Basil also prevents premature aging and maintains youthfulness (drink cold infusions regularly for this purpose)
Preparation methods:
Tea:Dry saute 10-12 leaves (washed) and 1 tsp grated ginger until leaves are bruised and tender. Add 1 cup of water and boil for 2 minutes. Strain (or not), add 1 tsp honey and drink 3 times /day
Infusion: Pour 200 ml boiling water over 1 tbsp leaves .Cover and steep for 10 minutes. (Do not drink while hot with any throat discomfort.)
Decoction:
*for internal use* Boil 1 tsp root in 500 ml water for 3-5 min on low flame. Turn heat off and leave to infuse for another 10-15 min.
*for topical use* Boil 4 tbsp in 500 ml water, apply externally as compresses.
Sniffing dried, powdered basil leaves relieves nasal congestion and clears the mind
Eating raw leaves-consume 4 raw leaves in the morning on empty stomach. Also consume regularly in your diet as part of your salads, pesto etc.
Oil infusion-Infuse basil leaves in olive oil and make basil balm for topical skin care.
Comments