Medicinal plants have had their leading role for many years, despite the onslaught of companies that manufacture synthetic medicines . One of those plants that offers us innumerable benefits is the basil plant .
The leaf of this plant offers many solutions to various human pathologies, and with the advantage that to obtain its benefits, they only have to have it in a garden.
Here we present the following article, where we present important information about the various contributions of this medicinal plant.
What is basil?
The basil plant , whose scientific name is ocimum basilicum , is an aromatic herb native to Iran, India, Pakistan, and various tropical regions of Asia. it has approximately 150 species.
Curious fact: The scientific name derives from ancient Greek, or cimum comes from “okimon” , described by Carlos Linnaeus in 1753, a name used by ancient botanists to refer to the aromatic herb and the word basilicum, from “basilikon” . whose meaning is “royal, majestic plant”.
Existing species of o cimum are rich in volatile oils , which can vary in chemical composition and growing conditions. Ocimum basilicum oil is used in perfumery and aromatherapy and is also recognized for its wide use as a medicinal plant.
Basil properties
The properties described below correspond to the basil of the ocimum basilicum L variety , whose main components are:
vitamins
One of them is vitamin K, essential for blood clotting, for the construction of healthy bones and tissues.
Another vitamin is A , which is contained in the beta-carotenes of its leaves , considered powerful antioxidants that help prevent the oxidation of cholesterol in the blood, arteriosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes.
Likewise, it contributes to the protection of the cells that form a series of body structures. Just two tablespoons of basil provide 29% of the recommended daily value.
It also contains vitamin C, necessary for the growth and repair of tissues; forms a protein that is used in the production of skin, tendons, ligaments, blood vessels, and to form scar tissue. It also contributes to the repair of cartilage, bones and teeth.
Vitamin C aids in the absorption of iron , and is one of many antioxidants, which block some of the free radical damage responsible for the aging process.
Note: Basil also contains flavonoids and volatile oils, which provide the greatest health benefits, protecting you at the cellular level with antibacterial properties.
These include estragole, linalool, cineole, eugenol, sabinene, myrcene, and limonene, all of which are capable of restricting the growth of numerous harmful bacteria.
minerals
It contains iron, which is a mineral necessary for the growth and development of the body . It is used by the body to make hemoglobin , a protein in red blood cells whose job is to carry oxygen from the lungs to different parts of the body, and myoglobin , a protein that provides oxygen to the muscles.
Its calcium content is essential for various processes in the body in the formation of bones, teeth, muscle contraction and the functioning of the nervous system . It is also involved in blood coagulation and in the activity of some enzymes.
Manganese is included in its content and is used by the body to strengthen bones , in reproduction, blood clotting and in maintaining a healthy immune system.
Its contribution of magnesium regulates the function of muscles and the nervous system , balances blood sugar levels, and blood pressure. Collaborates in the formation of proteins, bone mass and DNA.
For its part , potassium helps nerve function and muscle contraction as well as keeping your heart rate constant. It also allows nutrients to flow into the cells and wastes out of the cells.
antispasmodic
The action of the estragole contained in the basil leaf is considered antispasmodic, since it acts on the smooth muscles of the intestines. It is used to treat colic, such as dysmenorrhea, biliary or nephritic colic, among others.
antibacterial
Basil essential oil has been verified by scientific tests to contain methyl (E)-cinnamate, thymol and 4-allyl anisole, components that demonstrated their inhibitory activity against several strains of S. aureus and multiresistant K. pneumoniae of nosocomial origin. (1)
Important: Another scientific test carried out on the genera staphylococcus, enterococcus and pseudomonas , demonstrated a strong inhibitory effect of basil on the test bacteria. (two)
antitussive
The ocimum basilicum leaf is widely used in traditional medicine against respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and cough . The alpha pinene component helps protect the lungs from certain viral infections such as bronchitis . This is how an article from the Cuban Magazine of Pharmacy reports it . (3)
anti-inflammatory
Anti- inflammatory properties are attributed to it thanks to sabinene and linalool. Topically it is used in baths and poultices to treat skin conditions. This is how an article on “Pharmacognostic study of ocimum basilicum” refers to it . (4)
vermifuge
According to the tradition and customs of populations , basil has been used to treat the expulsion of intestinal parasites from the digestive tract . This action is also called anthelmintic.
This property is better reviewed in the article “Pharmacognostic study of ocimum basilicum” , from the Cuban Journal of Pharmacy . (5)
febrifugal
This property is thanks to the effect to strengthen the autoimmune system and to serve as a natural antibiotic. For example, warm basil tea is excellent for reducing fever because it induces perspiration, thus helping to regulate body temperature.
Important: In a degree work from the Autonomous Agrarian University, Antonio Narro , from Mexico, entitled “Basil Oil (Ocimum basilicum L.) and its potential for sustainable production for medicinal use” , they refer to the properties of this leaf both for the expulsion of parasites, as to lower fever. (6)
Health benefits of basil
Most of the benefits that the ocimum basilicum L. leaf presents , are documented by works and scientific studies, but also, the use by residents without scientific evidence, but with visible results, make it a powerful therapeutic tool . Here we present the most relevant:
Boosts the immune system
Thanks to its content of limeleol, saponins, tannins and vitamin C , the consumption of basil helps to improve the functions of the individual’s immune system , collaborating against the action of free radicals in the body, as an antioxidant.
Strengthens the cardiovascular system
The different antioxidant compounds of this plant reduce the oxidation of cholesterol in the bloodstream, thereby preventing obstructions in the veins, avoiding atherosclerosis and heart attacks.
Combat respiratory conditions
Due to its alpha pinene content , the consumption of basil favors the treatment of respiratory conditions such as bronchitis and tuberculosis.
Note: A study on “Evaluation of the antimycobacterial activity of the constituents of Ocimum basilicum against Mycobacterium tuberculosis” , reveals its support for the use of this plant as a remedy for the symptoms of tuberculosis. (7)
Its effectiveness against the fungus Candida albicans and Bacillus subtilis has also been proven .
Relieves digestive disorders
The leaf of this plant stimulates the appetite and facilitates digestion , thanks to the presence of methylchavicol, linalool, cineol and eugenol , in addition to saponins (substances that science has shown to have an antimicrobial effect and antibacterial properties ).
Likewise, its contribution of vitamin B1 , intervenes in the repair of digestive problems, such as lack of appetite, ulcerative colitis or chronic diarrhea
Eliminates fluid retention and toxins
Basil essential oil has the property of reducing sugar and free radicals in the body, due to its contribution of minerals such as potassium, vitamin C and flavonoid compounds.
Reduces joint, muscle and menstrual pain
The consumption of the basil leaf , thanks to its content of estragole and alpha pinene , alleviates the pain caused to the locomotor system, such as muscles, bones and joints, due to its analgesic effect.
Reduces migraines and headaches
Basil essential oil contains limaleol and myrcene , which can help reduce pain caused by migraines and headaches due to its sedative and analgesic effects. It is not used for headaches caused by trauma.
Improves visual functioning
Due to its beta- carotene content , the basil leaf provides the body with vitamin A. This vitamin, also called retinol , collaborates in the production of pigments in the retina of the eye, which favors sight when exposed to dim light.
Fight oral diseases
The basil leaf in the form of essential oil , and its linalool content, contributes to the solution of oral problems thanks to its analgesic properties.
It is also applied in case of oral pain , and other pathologies of the mouth. It is also used to stop bacterial infection located in the oral cavity, thanks to its antibacterial components.
Reduces stress, anxiety and insomnia
Estragole and limalol from basil have a positive effect on the nervous system and alleviate manifestations of anxiety and stress in the stomach. Drinking a couple of cups of tea or infusion can calm the nerves in stressful situations or events.
Note: Those who suffer from insomnia can also benefit from the sedative effect of this plant to help them fall asleep. It also mitigates physical and mental fatigue, which makes it ideal in times of decay, exhaustion or tiredness.
Improves and rejuvenates the skin
This is due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties and its flavonoid content . This action improves the appearance of the skin and rejuvenates it.
Promotes the production of breast milk
Vitamins K, A and C , minerals such as calcium and magnesium and trace elements such as iron and manganese, elements present in the basil leaf, contribute to the production of quality breast milk .
How to use basil?
The fresh or dried basil leaf is commonly used as a seasoning in cooking . However, its use has been extended for many years to medicinal therapy, through different preparations. Here we give you some of them:
Basil infusion
The consumption of basil infusion is perfect to combat stress , improving our quality of life .
Also as a product of its digestive properties , it is appropriate for those nights when colic prevents us from sleeping.
Here is a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- dried basil leaves
- Hot water
- sweetener to taste
Preparation and consumption
- In a small pot, we will place fresh water and the dried basil leaves.
- It will take to the fire until it boils.
- We add the sweetener to our liking.
- In a cup, we serve our infusion.
basil topical oil
This oil has great anti-inflammatory and healing power . It is used to repair the mucous membranes of the skin in case of insect bites, superficial wounds and urticaria.
Basil topical oil is also used to treat acne and seborrheic dermatitis .
Here is a simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- dried basil leaves
- Rosemary or almond essential oil
Preparation and use
- Clean the dried basil leaves well.
- Then in a mortar place the dried basil leaves and crush them.
- As you grind them, start adding the rosemary or almond oil little by little and continue to blend everything.
- After you have well crushed the basil leaves in the oil, place it in a container, preferably glass and that is sterilized.
- Cover tightly, and leave to macerate for a month to intensify its properties, in a dry, cool and dark space.
##Key Findings
- Basil is an aromatic herb with more than 150 species, which has been used since ancient times.
- It has vitamin K, C, iron, calcium, manganese, potassium, beta-carotene and important trace elements for the body.
- It has antispasmodic, antibacterial, antitussive, anti-inflammatory, vermifuge and febrifuge properties.
- Strengthens the immune , cardiovascular, digestive, respiratory, and visual systems, also reduces pain, stress, anxiety, insomnia, and rejuvenates the skin.
- It can be consumed fresh or dried to make infusions, flavor food or used topically in essential oils.
University Professional in the area of Human Resources, Postgraduate in Occupational Health and Hygiene of the Work Environment, 14 years of experience in the area of health. Interested in topics of Psychology, Occupational Health, and General Medicine.