Basil’s 40 Medicinal Benefits

Basil is known for its aromatic properties, which many chefs like to take advantage of. Due to its strong aroma, this herb is well suited for decorating pizza, pasta, snacks or salads. Basil leaves also have great medicinal effects!

This article lists the 40 surprising medicinal benefits of basil. You can use basil as a natural remedy for digestive, nervous or immune system problems. It also works well in beauty care and weight loss!

Basilica

Basil ( Ocimum basilicum ) is a spice herb suitable for cooking and natural remedies , native to Asian countries such as India, Pakistan and Iran. It grows in tropical climates and is very sensitive to cold temperatures. In different cultures, basil has a different positive or negative symbolic meaning.

In cooking, basil is often used fresh to preserve its properties and aroma. It goes well with other herbs such as thyme and rosemary, as well as all types of dishes: meat, fish, vegetables, sauces, soups, cheeses, eggs, gazpacho, etc. Basil is also used to make pesto!

Basil is usually eaten as is, but it is also available as a dietary supplement in the form of tablets or extract. Its fresh or dried leaves can be used to make a stew. If you want to preserve basil, remember that it can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a few days. It is best to preserve it covered in olive oil and also put a touch of salt in the container. This way it is always ready for use.

Medicinal benefits of basil

Below you will find the 40 surprising medicinal benefits of the basilica divided into different categories.

For the digestive system

Basil is an aromatic herb that helps with digestion and prevents and soothes some ailments:

• Facilitates slow digestion.
• Prevents gas formation and flatulence.
• Prevents bad breath.
• Helps stop vomiting.
• Accelerates appetite.

To the nervous system

Basil can also help cure nervous system disorders:

• Strengthens the nervous system.
• Reduces anxiety and stress thanks to its relaxing properties.
• Soothes the abdominal nerves.
• Helps fight insomnia.
• May be useful in the treatment of mild depression.
• Reduces physical and mental exhaustion.

For the immune system

Basil has some properties that can help strengthen resistance:

• Helps remove toxins and cleanses the blood.
• Prevents flu and runny nose due to its antimicrobial properties.
• Reduces fever.
• Its antifungal properties prevent infections.
• It is an natural anti-inflammatory / anti-inflammatory agent.
• It acts as a painkiller for headaches, toothaches or menstrual cramps.
• Fights cough.
• Prevents intestinal disorders.
• It is very effective in treating respiratory ailments such as pharyngitis, asthma or bronchitis.
• Relieves constipation.

To cleanse the body of toxins and lose weight:

Basil should be part of any healthy detox and weight loss diet.

• Its diuretic properties eliminate fluid swelling.
• It creates a feeling of satiety, which curbs hunger and helps you eat less.

• It is a good tool to reduce emotional eating.
• It helps to remove kidney stones.
• Its invigorating properties help fight fatigue and increase calories burned.
• It also fights bloating.

For beauty care

Listed below are some of the lesser known benefits of basil for hair and skin.

• Its antioxidant properties help prevent premature aging.
• It prevents hair loss and strengthens the hair follicle.
• Reduces acne.
• Helps heal wounds.
• Whitens teeth.

Other medicinal benefits of basil

Here are some other surprising health benefits of basil:

• Improves blood circulation and cardiovascular health. Lowers high blood pressure and high cholesterol.
• Enhances memory and mental abilities.
• Regulates blood sugar and prevents diabetes, as well as insulin resistance.
• In lactating women, basil increases milk production.
• Prevents dizziness.
• Soothes mouth ulcers.
• Acts as a natural mosquito repellent.
• Improves vision.