Bountiful Basil
Plant Facts
A member of the labiate family, basil can grow to a height of 24 inches and is related to peppermint. Its leaves have a spicy scent and an aromatic taste. Basil grows in North America as an annual garden herb, where it loves the heat and hates frost. The herb does best in sunny areas that are protected from the wind.
Therapeutic Effect
Thanks to its antispasmodic properties, basil is used for treating flatulence and stomach upset. It also helps ease tension and induce sleep. Its pungent taste triggers the production of saliva, enabling the body to digest food more effectively. It further aids digestion by increasing appetite and the flow of bile. Basil can also stimulate the cilia in the nose, helping to clear the nasal passages of mucus and disease-causing bacteria.
Components
Basil leaves are rich in an essential oil called estragol that is comprised primarily of methylchavicol. The oil is credited for basil's antispasmodic and germicidal effect. Basil also contains saponins, tannins and flavonoids. Fresh basil also contains carotenoids and folic acid. In its dried form, basil is a good source of calcium, potassium and iron.
Indications
When taken internally, basil is known to ease a nervous stomach, reduce intestinal gas and alleviate constipation and bloating. Its properties stimulate the appetite and digestive juices while soothing inflamed mucus membranes. Because of the herb's antibacterial properties, basil is favored as a supporting measure for a variety of infections, including gastrointestinal difficulties and urinary tract infections. Make a poultice from basil by simmering the herb for two minutes. Squeeze out the liquid, and apply to wounds that are slow to heal, as well as to fungal infections. Try basil for sleep disorders and headaches. Even a sore throat may be soothed by gargling a basil infusion.
Basil snuff
Basil provides relief from respiratory diseases. Crush the dried herb to a fine powder and sniff it deep into the nose. Drying the leaves increases their essential oil content, thereby strengthening their antibacterial benefits.
Uses
The wonderful scent and flavor of basil makes it one of the most popular garden herbs. Basil brings flavor to a variety of dishes with its very unique, sweet pungency. Medicinally, basil is considered a mild antidepressant, thought to be emotionally uplifting. To ease depression, eat fresh leaves or add 5 drops of essential oil (available at health-food stores
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