Basil, as a plant, has a number of benefits which have been recognized by Ayurveda. A basil plant is one of the most multi-medicinal plant having innumerable medicinal features.
Basil, in scientific language, is known as Ocimum Basilicum . There are 60 varieties of this plant with various tastes and aromas. It is one of the most popular of herbs all over the world. A basil plant has a number of nutrients such as Iron, Vitamin A, Vitamin C, potassium, calcium, manganese and also acts as a dietary fiber.
The various benefits from a Basil Plant can be as follows :-
· A basil plant is used as a nerve tonic to sharpen the memory.
· It helps in strengthening the stomach inducing copious perspiration.
· Basil leaves are very useful in coughs as they help to mobilize mucus resulting in bringing down asthmatic attacks or severe bronchitis. These basil leaves can be taken along with water or simply chewed.
· Basil is a strong anti-stress agent and as such regular consumption of basil leaves may relieve you of stress and its after-effects.
· Basil along with sandalwood paste can be used to cure headaches.
· Skin-diseases such as Leucoderma & ringworms can be cured by applying paste of Basil leaves.
· These leaves are effective in reduction of mouth and ulcer diseases.
· Basil is used as a prevention against insect bites due to its prophylactic features. Basil juice is also applied to the affected part of insect bites.
· Basil stops the growth of unwanted bacteria in the body due to its constituents like estragole, myrcene, limonene and linalool.
· Basil leaf extract increases the hepathic glutathione, reductase and catalase activities and this helps in the increase of enzyme response which in turn helps in reduction of tumor burden which affects anti-cancer.
· Seeds of basil plant are used as laxatives and are thus a natural way against constipation.
· Basil is prescribed for sore eyes and night-blindness. This is due to the presence of lutein and zeaxanthin in Basil.
· Prevention of malaria and dengu fevers is another use of Basil. Boil it with tea and consume it.
· Common fever can be reduced by a mixture of Basil leaves, cardamom powder, water, sugar and milk.
· Basil reduces the level of blood cholesterol and thus reduces the risk of cardiac diseases.
· Powdered basil can be used as a tooth paste to reduce bad breath and for overall dental health.
· Kidney stone can be broken down and made easy to pass through the urinary track by mixing basil leaves with honey and taking this mixture on regular basis.
· Various respiratory disorders like bronchitis, asthma or influenza can be cured by taking a concoction of boiling water and basil leaves along with honey and ginger.
· Sore throat, a major disorder among many during the winter or rainy season can be reduced by taking a mixture of basil leaves and water.
· Basil seeds help to maintain over production of cortisol which is secreted by adrenal glands and is harmful to the body.
· Basil also reduces inflammation and helps in the treatment of diabetes.
· Basil extract is used in various skin care products due to its positive effect on the skin.
· Basil promotes longetivity as it boosts the immune system of the body and if taken regularly, can be a health tonic for you.
· Basil also increases the luster of hair as well as cures lice problems. It also purifies the blood and is a great care for acne problems. It provides glow and radiance to the face.
· It is known to purify the environment as well as cleanses polluted water.
· Basil is used in cooking as a form of herb and its wonderful aroma makes the recipes more delicious.
Due to its various benefits, a Basil plant is known as ‘queen’ of herbs.
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