Basil is an herb that is used mainly for cooking purposes, and it belongs to the family of mint. It is the oldest herb that is known for its healing properties. Basil is an essential part of the Mediterranean diet, especially in Italian cuisines. It is a vital ingredient in pesto sauce for pasta, and it can be added to salads, pizza, and other dishes. Health benefits of basil are loaded with vitamins, minerals, and plant compounds. It plays an important role in the diet, as herbal medicine, and as an essential oil. The plant is available in different types that include sweet basil, lemon basil, Italian basil, curly basil, and holy basil. The most common type of basil that is typically used in the kitchen is the sweet basil that gives flavor to dishes.
1. It Helps to Fight Cancer
Cancer since its first known case evolved into a serious threat to human life. A patient needs a healthy body to fight these cancer cells. One of the many basil benefits is the fact that it is useful in reducing the risk of certain types of cancer. The particular type of basil that can prevent cancer is the holy basil. Holy basil is best known to its strong medicinal and healing properties. There is research found out that phytochemicals in holy basil are the ones that can prevent certain types of cancer such as liver, skin, and lung cancers. A basil leave can prevent cancer by increasing antioxidants activity, slowing cell division, trigger cancer cell death, and changing gene expression.
2. It can Protect against Skin Aging
One of the best basil nutrition is that it can protect the skin from the effects of premature aging. It cleanses the skin and it is perfect for those who have oily skin. There is a study conducted by scientists using basil extract and apply it to a laboratory model of skin. According to the result, basil extracts can improve skin hydration, reduce roughness, and wrinkling. One can easily do it at home by simply crushing the leaves and make a paste. Mix the basil paste with sandalwood paste and rose water then apply it on the face and let it stay for 20 minutes. The result can give you smooth and hydrated skin. A basil leave has strong antimicrobial and inflammatory properties that are effective in treating acne.
3. Prevent High Blood Sugar
Basil benefits the blood sugar level because of its low glycemic index. Eating foods with basil can lower the blood sugar of diabetic people due to its essential oil that can reduce the triglyceride and cholesterol level. There is a study conducted in rats and it shows that sweet basil leaves can help to reduce the blood sugar level and treat the long term effects of high blood sugar.
4. Anti-Inflammatory
A basil leave has an anti-inflammatory property that aids to cure varieties of diseases and disorders. Basil benefits contain essential oils such as citronellol, eugenol, and linalool. These essential oils help to lower the inflammation markers through their enzymes inhibiting properties. Research shows that the anti-inflammatory properties of sweet basil essential oil can help various diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel conditions. It can also treat simple diseases like cough, cold, sore throat, headache, and flu.
5. Reducing Oxidative Stress
Health benefits of basil contain antioxidants that can fight free radicals by preventing its oxidation from the body. Oxidative stress is an imbalance between the production of free radicals and detoxifying harmful effects in the body through the neutralization of antioxidants. Anthocyanins and beta carotene are components inside a basil leave that can eliminate the oxidative stress in the body.
6. Fight Depression
Depression is a mood disorder that requires immediate treatment. It is a persistent feeling of sadness and loss of interest in many things. Basil benefits the stimulation of neurotransmitters that can regulate the hormones that are responsible for the overall feeling of happiness. It has an anti-inflammatory property to boost the immune system and manage stress.
7. Heals an Upset Tummy
Basil nutrition contains an essential oil that is a traditional remedy for stomach ache and indigestion. Eating foods with basil can help to prevent bloating and water retention. It can also cure acid reflux and prevent loss of appetite.
