Rich in Vitamin A and K, basil is a deliciously aromatic herb from the mint family that is related to oregano and rosemary. Pesto lovers will be familiar with the many culinary uses associated with basil, where it also provides healthy doses of antioxidants, magnesium and vitamins with every bite. There are more than 60 different varieties of basil with sweet basil being the more common type used for culinary purposes. Holy basil and Tulsi are recognized and researched as the more medicinal varieties, although all basil probably maintains some health benefits as well.
Basil Basics
The properties of basil extend the herb’s healthful applications far beyond simple pesto. Like other aromatic plants, basil contains essential oils and phytochemicals in the leaves, stem, flowers, roots and seeds that can be translated into important agents of medicine.
The variety called holy basil or tulsi is considered a sacred herb in India and other parts of the world. It has been used in over 300 different Ayurvedic herbal treatments for thousands of years, including tinctures, teas, ointments and tonics. This variety is known to be an anti-inflammatory, antibacterial that contains powerful adaptogens — meaning eases stress and helps the body mitigate disease.
There is mounting evidence that holy basil can address physical, chemical, metabolic and psychological stress through a unique combination of therapeutic actions. It has been found to protect organs and tissues against chemical stress from environmental pollutants and heavy metals, and physical stress from prolonged physical exertion, ischemia, physical restraint, and exposure to cold and excessive noise. Tulsi has also been shown to counter metabolic stress by stabilizing blood glucose, blood pressure and lipid levels. Interestingly, basil eases psychological stress by supporting memory and cognitive function.
Additional Scientific studies also hails holy basil an anti-inflammatory, cancer-fighting, analgesic, fever reducing herb that also helps prevent diabetes, protects the liver, and blood vessels. It is also widely recognized as a stress reliever and immune booster.
Antibacterial, Antimicrobial, Antiviral Properties
In a world where people are concerned about spreading germs, basil offers considerable protection against harmful bacterial growth. In studies, the antibacterial activity of basil oil was put to the test against strains of E. coli and other powerful varieties of bacteria. The results showed it to be effective and helped to inhibit their growth. This study led researchers to expand research on basil antibacterial oils potential in fighting antibiotic-resistant illnesses and infections.
Oral Health & Basil
Chewing on a few raw basil leaves will bring out the natural antibacterial and antiviral properties of the herb which is recognized by research for preventing gum infections that cause halitosis and other oral diseases.
Eye Health – Lutein and Zeaxanthin
Lutein and zeaxanthin are two beneficial nutrients contained in basil. The eye relies on these same nutrients to filter light, preventing eye damage caused by harmful light exposure. The American Optometric Association suggest 6 milligrams of lutein and zeaxanthin daily to reduce the risk of age-related macular degeneration. Just a quarter-cup of fresh basil contains 10 percent of that 6-milligram goal.
Heart Health – Conquering Cholesterol
Basil extracts may also influence the development of heart disease. Basil oils have been shown to lower blood glucose, triglyceride and cholesterol levels. Sweet basil extracts have shown to slow platelet aggregation (the clumping together of blood platelets to form a clot) and thrombosis (the actual formation of the blood clot), suggesting a potential for heart attack and stroke prevention.
Get You Some Basil
Researchers may not be able to exactly quantify the contribution of herbs, but it is worth noting that herbs and spices do make up a significant amount of the total antioxidants obtained from the diet. Basil is virtually calorie-free while offering antioxidant vitamins and phenolics, a rich source of vitamin K, zinc, calcium, magnesium, potassium and dietary fiber.
Basil is also readily available as a tincture, supplement, loose leaf (for teas and other concoctions), as well as essential oil and extract.