Basil, or tulsi, is one of the oldest herbs known to the mankind. It is known for its strong healing and medicinal properties. The holy basil is quite often used in a number of prasad preparations and also forms an intrinsic part of various stews and curries.
One can still see basil plants outside many Indian households, even outside the clamped urban flats. Holy basil is offered to Gods in the form of prasad. Some say, that it is prohibited to even chew the holy basil leaves; one is supposed to swallow it at one go. Basil forms an intrinsic part of various curries and stews. There are significant botanical differences in various types of basil plants. The many varied species of basil include: sweet basil, lemon basil, Italian or curly basil, holy basil, Thai basil and lettuce-leaf basil. The smell and flavour of basil vary upon the concentration of essential volatile oils present in the herb. Cinnamate, citronellol, geraniol, linalool, pinene and terpineol are some of the oils that one can find across all species of basil. And it is the presence of these oils that chiefly affect the medicinal benefits of basil leaves.
Basil leaves are used in a variety of culinary preparations. In addition to the flavour, the culinary herb is said to preserve and enhance the properties of the food. From healthy gut to stronger immunity, benefits of basil leaves are quite a lot. Here are some you may not have known.
Benefits of basil leaves you must know
1. Good For Digestion
2. Anti-inflammatory
Basil and its strong anti-inflammatory properties can prove to be a cure to a variety of diseases and disorders. The powerful essential oils, including eugenol, citronellol and linalool, help lower inflammation through their enzyme inhibiting properties. The anti-inflammatory properties of basil may help lower risk of heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel conditions. Consumption of basil could also soothe fever, headache, sore throat, cold, cough, flu.
3. Fights free radical activity
According to the book ‘Healing Foods’, the culinary herb contains a range of natural antioxidants, which can help protect body tissues against free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable atoms. To become stable, they take electrons from other atoms and form chains. These chains of free radicals cause oxidative stress to the body and cause more damage to the cells. To reduce the oxidative stress in the body, one must up the intake of antioxidants. Basil contains two important water-soluble flavonoid antioxidants, known as orientin and viceninare. These potent antioxidants strengthen immune system, protect cellular structure, DNA and delay effects of skin ageing.
4. Skin Benefits
Basil’s powerful oil helps cleanse the skin from within. The excellent skin cleanser is perfect for those with oily skin. It also helps remove dirt and impurities that clog pores. Make a paste of basil leaves, sandalwood paste and rose water. Apply the paste on your face and let it sit for 20 minutes. Was it off with cold water. The strong anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of basil would help prevent formation of acne.
5. Fights Depression
Basil’s essential oil may help manage depression and anxiety too. The herb is believed to stimulate neurotransmitters that regulate the hormones responsible for inducing happiness and energy. Basil is considered as a powerful adaptogen or an anti-stress agent. Its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties help manage stress too.
6. Diabetes Management
Consumption of basil could result in slow release of sugar in the blood, which is very essential for diabetics. The herb has very low glycemic load. The essential oil present in basil also helps cut down triglyceride and cholesterol levels, which is a persistent risk factor amongst diabetics.
7. Supports Liver Function and Helps Detoxify the Body
Basil’s strong detox properties may do wonders for your liver health. Liver is a very essential organ for the body as it plays a crucial role in metabolism. Basil may help prevent fat build-up in the liver and keep your liver healthy.
8. Promote healthy gut
Basil also helps restore the body’s natural pH levels and feeds healthy bacteria within the gut microflora. A healthy gut flora increases immunity and promotes healthy digestion.
9. Heals An Upset Tummy
The essential volatile oil of basil has been seen as a traditional remedy to treat a variety of tummy problems in addition to indigestion. Consuming basil could help reduce bloating and water retention. It can even stimulate loss of appetite and could cure acid reflux as well.
If you are looking to include it in your diet, then here are three interesting ways for it. Read on to know more about them:
Add It In Sandwiches and Salads
Basil leaves can be added in Italian hoagies and grilled tomato cheese sandwiches. You can add them in a bottle of white wine vinegar to mix with olive oil for dressings. Team fresh basil with mint and cilantro along with bean sprouts, lettuce, and chills for a Vietnamese salad plate.
Make Basil Tea
Make a healing tea by infusing chopped basil leaves in green or black tea. You can savour this tea in winters to keep your immunity levels up and going. Basil tea can act as detox drink as well.
- How to make the perfect tulsi tea (Tulsi tea recipe)?
- Tulsi tea is simple to make; all you need to do is to take a cup of water in a pan and add 2-3 basil leaves in it and bring it a boil. Let the water absorb its colour and flavour. After about three minutes, strain the tea in a glass. You can drink this tea as it is or add a teaspoon of honey and a half teaspoon of lemon juice in it for extra flavour and benefits. In fact, you can also add cardamom and ginger while preparing the tea.
Make Pesto Out Of It
As per the book, ‘Healing Spice’ by Bharat B. Aggarwal, Ph. D with Debora Yost, “Put 1 cup of fresh basil leaves , 1 cup of Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of pine nuts, and 5 cloves of garlic in a blender or food processor. Process while slowly adding olive oil (about 1/4 cup), until it reaches a creamy consistency. Use this pesto sauce on pasta, grilled meat, or fish. Stir a tablespoon into soups at the last minute.”
So, what are you waiting for? Make the most out of this healing herb by using it in the above mentioned ways.
https://www.ndtv.com/food/heres-how-you-can-add-more-basil-in-your-diet-1959384
Disclaimer: All information, data and material has been sourced from multiple authors and is for general information and educational purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of your treating doctor.
The views and nutritional advice expressed are not intended to be a substitute for conventional medical service. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
