Basil is native to tropical regions from central Africa to Southeast Asia. It is a tender plant, and is used in cuisines worldwide.
While, there are many related species or hybrids also called basil, the type used commonly as a flavor is typically called sweet basil.
In folk medicine practices, such as those of Ayurveda or traditional Chinese medicine, basil is thought to have therapeutic properties
In this post from Natural Health 365, they discuss 6 of the most amazing health benefits of the basil plant:
“Eat basil and discover 6 AMAZING medicinal benefits for optimal health
Basil is a favorite herb in Italian, Mediterranean and Indian dishes. However, it’s way more than just a delicious condiment; research is showing that adding this fresh herb to your diet also brings a wide range of amazing health benefits that support great health.
Basil is loaded with lifesaving nutrients, vitamins and minerals such as, calcium, vitamin K, cancer-fighting antioxidants and beta-caryophyllene – a key anti-inflammatory compound. I
In addition, consuming basil can help to protect the DNA as well as countering the effects of stress at the cellular level.
Basil health benefits are connected to a long history throughout the world
The healing properties of basil have been revered for thousands of years in Africa and Asia. Today, it’s grown in the Mediterranean, Europe, the Middle East and the United States. There are more than 60 varieties that differ in leaf appearance and pungency, but sweet basil is most commonly used in cooking and culinary practices.
However, enjoying the aromatic flavor of basil can uplift more than just your palette. Let’s take a look at six medicinal benefits of basil for supporting optimal health:
1. DNA protection
Perhaps the most exciting benefit of fresh basil is its protective effect against DNA and genetic damage. Our DNA is the blueprint of life and every bodily process. The chromosomes within the DNA can become harmed or corrupted by exposure to toxins or radiation.
This causes the production of free radicals that can alter the genes and cause DNA mutations linked with cancer. The flavonoids within basil counter this damage at the cellular level.
2. Boosts heart health
The high antioxidant content in basil is also beneficial to heart health. A recent journal Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity study found basil leaf extract helped regulate cholesterol levels, while research out of China has shown it can assist in lowering high blood pressure.
3. Antibacterial effects
Basil helps to inhibit the growth of bacteria and pathogens. The antibacterial effects of basil are mainly in its essential oils.
It is particularly effective against the bacteria strains Bacillus cereus, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli and Pseudomonas aeruginosa – a bacteria linked with lung infection.”
Some of the other benefits range from it’s anti-stress properties to being a mild-analgesic for pain. One great way to incorporate more basil in your diet is to simply put it in a smoothie.
To find out the top reamining 3 benefits from basic, go on over to check out the post at NaturalHealth365.com
Also, for more ways to incorporate fresh basil in your recipes at home, go check out some great recipes at myrecipes.com
Photo By amandabhslater