Originally native to India, Asia, and Africa, basil was held to be a sacred and noble herb. In fact, the word “basil” comes from the ancient Greek “basilikhon” which means “royal”.
Basil is a member of the mint family. Most types have shiny, light-green leaves and a pungent, slightly sweet aroma. There are many types of basil, each slightly different in aroma and taste. One of the most widely used herbs for seasoning tomatoes and tomato sauces, basil plays a key role in the Mediterranean, Asian, and Middle Eastern cuisine. Basil particularly complements the flavour of garlic and olives. It is also pleasing combined with lemon.
Reduction of Oxidative Stress
Basil is full of antioxidants. Sweet basil contains a compound called eugenol, and lime and lemon basils have limonene. These antioxidants, along with others such as anthocyanins and beta-carotene, help to fight free radicals in the body that can otherwise lead to cell damage and increase your risk for a variety of health conditions, including cancer, and heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes.
Cancer Prevention
Holy basil, also called tulsi, is a bit different from the sweet basil you use in your favourite recipes. Still, its phytochemicals can help to protect against different types of cancer, including lung cancer, liver cancer, oral cancer, and skin cancer.
Blood Sugar Regulation
Adding basil to your diet may help to reduce high blood sugar levels. In a study performed on rats with diabetes, basil extract helped to do just that. Basil may also be helpful in treating the long-term effects of high blood sugar.
Heart disease Prevention
The eugenol in basil can block calcium channels, which may help to lower blood pressure. The essential oils in the herb can help to lower your cholesterol and triglycerides. Basil also contains magnesium, which can help to improve blood flow by allowing muscles and blood vessels to relax.
Improved Mental Health
Tulsi is a popular herb in Ayurvedic medicine. Research has shown that it has many benefits, including improving your mental health. It has compounds that can help to alleviate anxiety and depression, increase your ability to think clearly and lower the risk for age-related memory loss.
Reduced Inflammation
Essential oils in basil, including eugenol, linalool, and citronellal, can help to fight inflammation in the body. These anti-inflammatory properties can help to lower the risk of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. heart disease, and bowel issues.
Protection Against Infections
Basil has antibacterial properties. The oils in the herb may help to fight bacteria in people with respiratory, urinary, abdominal, and skin infections.
WebMD. 2022. Health Benefits of Basil.
Available at: <https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-basil> [Accessed July 2022].