Basil - an Important Kitchen Herb with Several Health Benefits

It is a universally known fact that aromatherapy uses essential oils extracted from plants. Basil is one of the most commonly used oils in aromatherapy. Basil got its name from the Greek word "basileum" meaning "king". Considered as "king among plants" the oil extracted from basil was one of the ingredients on the list of oils blended to massage kings.

Basil is an important herb as its uses are two-fold, for cooking as well as to cure a variety of ailments. Along with this uses the herb also covers and offers a plethora of medical benefits. If added early while cooking, it loses its flavor; hence it should be used as soon as it is plucked from the plant. It ought to be added towards the end of cooking. It exudes a warm, gentle unique flavor and fragrance in cooking.

Basil is said to have uplifting and refreshing properties. Two to three drops of basil oil is known to relieve variety of health disorders such as mental fatigue, tension, stress, mild anxiety, loss of appetite, flatulence, nausea, sinusitis, cold, fever, earaches, eases rheumatic, arthritic and muscular pains.

The leaves of basil are steam-distilled to create oil. Medically, it provides relief to sore gums, ulcers, chest infections and digestive problems. It has been used as a brain stimulant and an antispasmodic, making it effective in the treatment of whooping cough and bronchitis.

Basil oil, when mixed with massage oil and gently rubbed over the stomach, helps to ease many types of digestive problems. Basil should be used sparingly on skin as it could cause irritation. If you want to add a few drops to your bath, dilute it with a carrier oil, or mix it with a skin cream or lotion.

A potpourri of dried basil leaves and flowers creates a fragrant atmosphere wherever kept. It is also used as an insect repellent, as burned sprigs of basil drive away mosquitoes. If you keep a potted plant of basil on the windowsill, it will deter flies from entering your home.

However basil should not be used during pregnancy. Basil helps with depression, increases alertness, aids in concentration, relieves headaches, head congestion and migraines. Basil regulates the menstrual cycle and reduces menstrual cramps. The herb blends very well with other aromatherapy oils such as rosemary, lavender, bergamot, clary sage, geranium and citrus oils.