Basil (Ocimum basilicum L. (sweet basil) is a truly wonder herb originally from the tropical regions. The name is derived from the Greek word basileus, king. There are more than 60 plant species and the scent of each species differs. From the Mediterranean to Asia, basil is a beloved herb used in cuisines around the world.
Beyond its culinary uses, basil offers numerous health benefits due to its rich content of essential oils, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Hippocrates regarded basil as beneficial for heart and regarded it as soothing for the abdomen. It’s believed that Alexander the Great, was the one who brought basil to the Mediterranian from India. We will never know who really brought it though, because Greeks knew basil long before Alexander the Great, as it was mentioned by poets who lived before him.
Health Benefits of Basil
Rich in Antioxidants
Basil contains powerful antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic compounds that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. This can reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and cancer.
Anti-Inflammatory Properties
It has compounds like eugenol, citronellol, and linalool that have anti-inflammatory effects. These can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is beneficial for conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel diseases.
Supports Digestive Health
It can help stimulate appetite and improve digestion. It can also help alleviate symptoms of indigestion, bloating, and stomach cramps. Furthermore, the essential oils in basil have antimicrobial properties that can help protect the digestive tract from harmful bacteria and pathogens.
Boosts Immune System
Basil’s antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties can help boost the immune system and protect against infections. It also contains a number of vitamins and minerals such as:
- vitamin C,
- Calcium,
- Vitamin A,
- Vitamin K,
- Magnesium,
- Iron,
- Zinc,
- Potassium
that support immune function.
Lowers Cholesterol and Blood Pressure
Basil can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce blood pressure, thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This contributes to overall heart health and reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
The content of polyphenol compounds such as flavonoids and tannins in the plant leaves can reduce total cholesterol levels and inhibit fat oxidation which is the cause of atherosclerosis
Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Basil has adaptogenic properties, meaning it can help the body cope with stress. The herb is known to have a calming effect, which can help reduce anxiety and improve mood.
Regulates Blood Sugar Levels
It can help regulate blood sugar levels, and it can enhance insulin sensitivity and lower blood glucose levels.
Anti-Cancer Properties
The antioxidants and phytochemicals in basil have anti-cancer properties. They can help protect cells from DNA damage, inhibit the growth of cancer cells, and induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in certain types of cancer.
Detoxifies the Liver
It can help support liver function and detoxification processes. It promotes the elimination of toxins from the body and protects the liver from damage.
Improves Skin Health
It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that can help treat skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis. It can also help heal wounds and reduce skin irritation.
Relieves Cough and Cold
Furthermore, it can help alleviate symptoms of respiratory conditions such as cough, cold, bronchitis, and asthma. Its antimicrobial properties help fight infections, and its anti-inflammatory effects reduce respiratory inflammation.
Pain Relief
It can act as a natural analgesic. Its essential oils contain compounds that have analgesic properties, which can help alleviate headaches, muscle pain.
How to Use Basil
Culinary Uses
Add fresh or dried basil leaves to salads, soups, stews, sauces, and pasta dishes. Basil pairs well with tomatoes, garlic, and olive oil.
Tea
Brew fresh basil leaves in hot water to make a soothing herbal tea that can aid digestion and reduce stress.
Essential Oil
Use basil essential oil in aromatherapy or dilute it with a carrier oil for topical application to treat skin conditions or for massage.
Infused Water
Add fresh basil leaves to water for a refreshing, detoxifying drink.
Basil Detox Water Recipe Infusion
Basic Recipe for Detox Water with Mediterranean Basil, Infused Water with Mediterranean Basil
Ingredients
- 1. About 6 cups of water (1.5 liter of water)
- 2. 3-4 stalks/sprigs of basil
- This means a small branch of the plant, usually including several of its leaves still attached to the stem which range from 2 to 4 inches long.
- Optional: 1/2 lemon in slices
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients: Wash the fresh basil leaves thoroughly.
- Combine: Put the leaves in the water in a jug or in a bottle. Add the lemon slices, if you opt for it.
- Infuse: Stir the mixture well and let it sit in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight. This allows the flavors and nutrients to fully infuse into the water.
- Serve: Pour the detox water into a glass and enjoy! You can refill the pitcher with water a second time before replacing the ingredients, however, it might not taste so intense.
Optionally, you can also blend the basil leaves with the water and drink the refreshing drink. This option delivers more nutrients as you consume also the herb.
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 5 Serving Size: 1 cupAmount Per Serving: Calories: 0Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 0mgCarbohydrates: 0gNet Carbohydrates: 0gFiber: 0gSugar: 0gSugar Alcohols: 0gProtein: 0g
Grow Basil at Home
Basil loves sunny and warm climate. You can grow it in the garden, on your balcony or even on your balcony in the winter. However, the best time to harvest it, is in the summer, when the inflorences appear.
So, well worth it to add it into your and your family’s diet and it can help improve your digestion, boost your immunity, reduce inflammation, and support overall health.
Try also our other Detox Water Recipes to stay healthy and hydrated!
Happy Summer!