Benefits of basil

Treating cold, flu and bronchitis

Basil has excellent amounts of essential oils and antioxidants that help relax the muscle cells in the lungs. This can help improve and relieve coughs related to colds, flu and bronchitis.

In addition, because it has anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, basil can also relieve lung irritation and help fight the viruses responsible for colds and flu. 

Improve digestion

Basil is rich in ursolic acid, a compound with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity that protects and improves liver function as well as improve digestion.

Because of its anti-spasmodic properties, basil can help to prevent stomach cramps and gastric discomfort. The herb also has carminative properties which can combat excess gas.

Prevent and treat high blood pressure

There are high concentrations of eugenol present in  basil. It contributes to blood vessel relaxation, preventing and helping to treat high blood pressure.

The antioxidants present in basil, like the tannins, saponins and flavonoids, also prevent the formation of free radicals in the body that can cause damage to the arteries. This can help to prevent and manage high blood pressure

Combat anxiety, depression and insomnia

Basil has great amounts of geraniol and linalool, which are two substances present in basil essential oil. These act on the central nervous system by promoting mental relaxation and improving depression, anxiety and insomnia

Prevent heart attack and atherosclerosis

Basil is rich in antioxidants, such as flavonoids and tannins, which help to lower the levels of “bad” cholesterol in the blood. This can prevent diseases such as heart attack, stroke and atherosclerosis. 

Treat wounds and insect bites

Basil has antiseptic and antimicrobial properties and can be used to make a healing paste to be applied directly to the skin. It is very effective for treating skin wounds and insect bites.

Relieve migraines

Basil essential oil is rich in menthol, geraniol and linalool, which have relaxing and anesthetic properties that can relieve migraines when inhaled or applied to the skin.

Treat canker sores, sore throat and tonsillitis

Because it has antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties, basil can be used in teas, mouthwashes or gargles to treat canker sores, gingivitis, sore throats and tonsillitis

Regulate blood sugar levels

Some studies indicate that basil can help regulate blood sugar, as it stimulates insulin production in the pancreas, inhibits glucose production in the liver and increases glycogen secretion..

Therefore, frequently including basil in your diet can be an excellent option to complement treatment for diabetes or pre-diabetes.