Health Benefits and Uses of Basil

Created by philiHealth | 08/02/2021 | Health & Wellness |

Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Basil scientifically known as Ocimum basilicum, belongs to the mint family, Lamiaceae. Depending on where it is growing, the plant has a variety of names, including Sweet Basil, Lemon Basil, Thai Basil, African Blue Basil, Elephant Garlic, Purple Basil, Saint Joseph's Wort, American Dittany, Albahaca and Witches Herb. It is indigenous to India, tropical regions of Asia, Africa and the Pacific Islands, Europe, Australia, and North America. It is now cultivated extensively for commercial use in France, Egypt, Hungary, Indonesia, Morocco, Greece, Bulgaria, Yugoslavia, Israel, Italy, Madagascar and Mexico and to some extent in other temperate countries of the world. It has been grown in areas around the Mediterranean since antiquity, but Britain did not begin using Basil until the 16th century. Newspaper documentation mentioning the sale of Sweet Basil in New York can be found dating back to the end of the 18th century. It is also much cultivated in the United States, especially in California. It is best grown in a warm environment. Basil leaves can have a variety of tastes like pungent, strong or even sweet. It has a very relaxing smell. The word "Ocimum" is derived from the Greek word "okimon", which means "smell" and the word Basil comes from the Greek word "Basileus" or "Basilikohn" meaning "The King" or "Loyal or Kingly" plant. Used in this way, Basil reflects an attitude of nobility and a desire to extend hospitality, friendship, and honor wherever it was served. The French call Basil "L'herbe Royale" or the "Royal Herb". Whenever Basil is used, it is for the purpose of providing your guests with the "Royal Treatment". It was also said by an herbalist named John Gerad that people stung by a scorpion would feel no pain if they ate Basil. This herb has its roots in India and Iran and these lands have been cultivating for more than 5000 years. Due to its distinct flavor and wide usage in many cuisines it is also known as "King of Herbs" by many culinary experts.

Early Greek and Roman physicians believed that to grow a good crop of Basil, one had to shout and curse while planting it. From this practice was born the French idiom "semer le basilic", or "sowing the Basil". It means someone is "raving for virtually no reason, like a lunatic". Basil has a long history and records of its use date back thousands of years. In India, where it most likely originated, it is a sacred herb dedicated to the gods Vishnu and Krishna and is worshiped more highly than kings. Holy Basil is the supposed original variety of the plant and takes its name from the importance placed upon it by the Hindu religion. Sprigs of it were at one time laid on the chests of the dead to protect them from evil in the next world and to offer them entrance to paradise. Basil was traditionally used in India courts for witnesses to swear upon, much as we swear on the Bible in the US. It is one of the most sacred plants of India, second in importance only to the lotus. It is grown in or around most Hindu households and around temples for its protective influence. Other countries of the world have strong connections to Basil, as do other religions. Basil was supposedly found growing around Christ's tomb after the resurrection, and around the trees used to construct the cross upon which he was crucified. Due to this, many churches, such as the Greek Orthodox Church, use Basil to prepare their Holy Water and pots of Basil are set below church altars. In other countries and regions, traditional views of Basil are anything but "religious". Basil seems to have been associated with scorpions throughout history. These creatures supposedly live under Basil plants and in Africa, the plant is reputed to protect against them. European folklore also shows an association with these creatures, and it is said that if you smell Basil too much that it will breed a nest of scorpions in your brain. Basil represented hatred in ancient Greece, and European lore sometimes claims that it is a symbol of Satan. Basil is still used in exorcism rituals in many parts of the world to expel demons. It is traditional to strew Basil on the floor of your home because where there is Basil, it is said that no evil can live. For this reason, it is used in purification baths and rituals and often small amounts of it are placed in each room in a house to bring protection from evil spirits. Given as a housewarming gift, Basil brings good luck to a new home. In central regions of Mexico, Basil is used to draw fortune to a business. The owner can hang a bunch of it in the doorway or window of the shop. The plant's growth reflects the wealth of the business by showing how dutifully the owner cares for his shop and the herb. Witchcraft, paganism, and magical uses for the herb also reflect this. Basil is said to bring wealth to those who carry it in their pockets and is used to attract customers to a business by placing a sprig of it in the cash register drawer or in the doorway of the shop. The people of the Victorian era enjoyed assigning special meanings to all the plants they came into contact with. Most of the meanings are associated with uses of Basil and lore regarding it through history. The Victorians used flowers and plants to send messages to others based on these assigned meanings. Cinnamon Basil indicates a love of learning and education. Common Basil means hate or is used to indicate that "an enemy is near". Sweet Basil is used to communicate good wishes, or best wishes, as well as to indicate that one has serious intentions in a love relationship. Additionally, when a woman places a pot of Basil on her windowsill, it means she is ready to receive her suitor. Basil is a sacred herb in witchcraft and pagan rituals, so it has many properties and magical uses. Its magical powers include love, exorcism, wealth, flying, and protection. The primary power Basil has in ritual is toward love. Its scent is said to cause sympathy between two people and to soothe tempers between lovers. It is added to love incenses and sachets, and the fresh leaves can be rubbed against the skin as a kind of natural love perfume. It was once thought that a young man would love any woman from whom he accepted a sprig of Basil. Likewise, it was said that if a man gave a woman a sprig, she would fall in love with him and never leave. Basil can be used in love divination. To determine the success of a marriage or relationship, place two Basil leaves, representing the two parties to the marriage, on a live coal. If the leaves lie where you put them and burn quickly to ashes, the marriage or relationship will be harmonious. If there is a certain amount of crackling, the life of the pair will be disturbed by quarrels. If the leaves fly apart with fierce crackling, the relationship or marriage will be equally as noisy and combustible, and therefore deemed undesirable. To determine if someone is chaste or promiscuous, lay a sprig of fresh Basil in their hand. It will immediately wither if that person is "light of love", or prone to promiscuity. If it remains fresh for a little while, then you can safely assume your mate will remain true to you. To ensure your lover stays true, sprinkle Basil powder over your body thoroughly while your lover sleeps, especially over your heart. This will bless your relationship with fidelity.

Basil can be used to diet, but only by a second party's help and without the dieter's knowledge. According to an ancient spell, a person will not be able to eat a bite from any dish if, secretly, Basil has been placed beneath it. Other magical uses for Basil include keeping goats away from your property, attracting scorpions, and preventing inebriation or drunkenness. Additionally, witches were said to drink about a ½ cup of Basil juice before they flew off into the air. In addition to its culinary and medicinal attributes, Basil has a few other uses. You can add the leaves to potpourris and sachets. The fragrance is sweet and strong, but not overpowering. If you can spare a bit of Basil from the kitchen, cut some sprigs of either Sweet or Purple Basil to add to fresh flower bouquets and arrangements. Use them for their attractive leaves and sweet, Anise-Clove scent. Place a pot of Basil on a windowsill to deter flies and mosquitoes. The stems of some cultivars are cut into beads and used in making rosaries.

Health Benefits of Basil

Sweet Basil is most known for its culinary uses, but Basil of all varieties has many other benefits besides tasting amazing. Basil may provide health benefits in the diet, as herbal medicine, and as an essential oil. Basil is ideal for fighting against inflammatory diseases, cancer, bacterial infections, viral infections, cardiovascular problems, etc. It is best known for its use against digestive complaints. Try Basil tea in place of an after dinner mint. It will aid in digestion and expel gas. You can steep a teaspoon of the dried leaves in a cup of boiled water for stomach cramps, vomiting, and constipation. Steep a few leaves in wine for a few hours and then drink it as a tonic. It also facilitates normal liver functioning and acts as a natural aphrodisiac. Because Basil has slight sedative effects, it is sometimes recommended for nervous headaches and anxiety. Traditional uses include the treatment of colds and inflammation within nasal passages, a common effect of colds. A poultice of Basil can be used on sores, insect stings, and snakebites. Sweet Basil, for example, has a high concentration of the chemical agent eugenol. This gives it a Clove-like scent. Lime and Lemon Basils have high concentrations of limonene, which give them a citrusy scent. Both eugenol and limonene have antioxidant properties.

Basil also has many uses in aromatherapy. Other medicinal properties the herb possesses include a restorative warming sensation, muscle relaxation, fever reduction, and improvement of digestion. Clinical studies demonstrate that Basil has anti-bacterial properties and is effective against bacterial infections and intestinal parasites. Basil can be taken internally for feverish illness (especially colds and flu), nausea, cramps, gastroenteritis, migraine, insomnia, low spirits, and exhaustion. External uses include acne, loss of smell, and skin infections. Some cultivars have stimulant properties and can be used against impotence, diarrhea, dysentery, post-partum problems and against worms in children, as well as externally being used for rheumatism and lumbago. It can strengthen the immune system, help with sinusitis, abdominal distention and cramping, low libido and to fight negativity. Studies on the efficacy of Basil in medicinal pursuits include a trial against seriously multi-drug resistant bacteria. In this case, the Basil strongly reduced the negative effect of the bacteria. In another study, Basil was tested against tuberculosis symptoms and the results were encouraging. The conclusion arrived at from the test was that Basil may be used to formulate new and natural tuberculosis treatments. Basil extracts have been shown to reduce sugars and free radicals in the body, so tests were conducted in relation to its effect on the glycemic index. The findings from these tests led researchers to believe that Basil extracts may have the potential to inhibit diabetes. Basil may prevent the harmful effects of aging. Its extract was effective at killing off harmful molecules and preventing damage caused by free radicals in the liver, brain, and heart. It is possible that Basil extracts may someday be shown to prevent heart attacks, correct cirrhosis of the liver, and potentially to prevent Alzheimer's disease. Much further testing needs to be done before any of these claims can be made. Basil brings luster to hair. Brunettes can add it to a Rosemary rinse, while blondes can add it to a Chamomile rinse. Another cosmetic use for Basil is in perfumery and in toilet waters. Use it in bath mixtures as the fragrance is invigorating. The cosmetics industry uses Basil, or essential oil of Basil, in lotions, shampoos, soaps, and perfumes.

Apart from their taste somewhat like Anise, Basil is a good source of nutrients, vitamins and minerals. It’s highly nutritious with an abundance of vitamin A (as carotenoids), vitamin K, and vitamin C. It’s also rich in magnesium, iron, potassium, and calcium. Consuming 24 gram of Basil offers 99.6 µg of Vitamin K, 0.276 mg of Manganese, 0.092 mg of Copper, 0.76 mg of Iron, 63 µg of Vitamin A, 4.3 mg of Vitamin C, 42 mg of Calcium, 16 µg of Vitamin B9. Moreover many Amino acids 0.009 g of Tryptophan, 0.025 g of Threonine, 0.025 g of Isoleucine, 0.046 g of Leucine, 0.026 g of Lysine, 0.009 g of Methionine, 0.007 g of Cystine are also found in 24 gram of Basil.

Several studies have looked into the use of Basil, Ocimum basilicum (L.) in aquaculture as a dietary additive; however, more research is needed to see the possibility of it's including in nanocarriers in aquafeeds.

In a 2022 study "Chitosan-Ocimum basilicum nanocomposite as a dietary additive in Oreochromis niloticus: Effects on immune-antioxidant response, head kidney gene expression, intestinal architecture, and growth" published in Fish Shellfish Immunol., by Afaf N Abdel Rahman, Gehad E Elshopakey, Amany Behairy, Dalia E Altohamy, Amany I Ahmed, Khaled Yehia Farroh, Mohamed Alkafafy, Shimaa A Shahin, Rowida E Ibrahim, an experiment was undertaken to highlight the efficacy chitosan-Ocimum basilicum nanocomposite (COBN), for the first time, on Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus) growth, stress and antioxidant status, immune-related parameters, and gene expression. For 60 days, fish (average weight: 23.55 ± 0.08 g) were fed diets provided with different concentrations of COBN (g/kg): 0 g [COBN0], 1 g [COBN1], 2 g [COBN2], and 3 g [COBN3], where COBN0 was kept as control diet. Following the trial, the fish were challenged with pathogenic bacteria (Aeromonas sobria) and yeast (Candida albicans) infection. In comparison to the control (COBN0), a notable increase in growth parameters (weight gain, feed intake, and specific growth rate) and intestinal morphometric indices (average intestinal goblet cells count, villous width, and length) in all COBN groups was observed, where COBN2 and COBN3 groups had the highest values. The COBN diets significantly (p < 0.05) declined levels of serum triglycerides, glucose, cholesterol, and hepatic malondialdehyde. Moreover, the higher levels of serum biochemical biomarkers (growth hormone, total protein, globulin, and albumin), immunological parameters (phagocytic activity%, nitric oxide, and lysozyme), and hepatic antioxidant parameters (superoxide dismutase, total antioxidant capacity, and glutathione peroxidase) were obvious in the COBN2 and COBN3 groups followed by COBN1. The immune-antioxidant genes (TNF-α, IL-10, IL-1β, TGF-β, GPx, and SOD) were found to be considerably up-regulated in all COBN groups (COBN2 and COBN3 followed by COBN1). Fifteen days post-challenge with A. sobria and C. albicans, the highest survival rate was recorded in the COBN2 group (83.33 and 91.67%) followed by the COBN3 group (75 and 83.33%), respectively. The findings showed that a dietary intervention with COBN can promote growth, intestinal architecture, immunity, and antioxidant markers as well as protect Oreochromis niloticus - Nile tilapia against Aeromonas sobria and Candida albicans infection. As a result, the COBN at a dose of 2 g/kg could be used as a food additive for the sustainable aquaculture industry.

Despite the well-known beneficial function of Zn in human health, its deficiency is an increasingly recognized worldwide concern. In this work, we evaluated the agronomic biofortification of two basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) cultivars ('Aroma 2' and 'Eleonora') using nutrient solutions with different Zn concentrations (0, 12.5, 25, 37.5, and 50 µM).

In a 2023 study "Zinc biofortification of Genovese Basil: Influence on mineral profile and estimated daily intake in adults and children" published in Food Res Int., by Michele Ciriello, Luigi Formisano, Armando Zarrelli, Giandomenico Corrado, Marios C Kyriacou, Stefania De Pascale, Youssef Rouphael, we focused on the impact of biofortification on the mineral profile quantified by ICP OES. Compared to the control, biofortification treatments increased Zn concentration by 22.03 % (on average). Consumption of one serving of 50 µM of Zn biofortified basil 'Aroma 2' guarantees an estimated daily intake (EDI) of 275.746 and 91.915 µg day^-1 in adults and children, respectively. Furthermore, Zn biofortification positively affected the mineral profile of the leaves. Compared to the control, the B50 dose of Zn (50 μM of Zn) increased the EDI of macro and microelements in adults and children. This aspect highlights how biofortified basil consumption would improve consumers' nutritional status.

Any kind of respiratory, digestive as well as kidney issues, fevers, epidemics, malaria, liver and also gallbladder problems, menstrual regulation, anxiety and depression, chills, colds, fainting, insect repellant, memory and alertness, nasal inflammation, hiccups and much more. Simply take a look at the qualities over to obtain a concept of much more uses of Basil essential oils.

Cardiovascular Diseases (CVD):

Basil contains eugenol. This chemical compound aids in blocking the calcium channels, thus lowering your blood pressure. Also, the essential oils in Basil reduce the level of triglycerides and cholesterol in your body. It is not all. You will also find magnesium in this herb that improves blood circulation and allows your blood vessels and muscles to relax, preventing muscle cramps. Both an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory food, Basil can help the muscles that control blood vessel function to contract and relax, promoting healthy blood pressure. To reduce inflammation that can cause cardiovascular disease by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines, proteins that are secreted from cell to cell in order to communicate and raise the body’s immune defenses. When this happens for prolonged periods of time, the body experiences an “inflammatory cascade”, which puts stress on the organs and slows down blood circulation, hormone regulation and cognitive processes. Benefits of Basil include the ability to help prevent dangerous platelet aggregation, clumping together of blood platelets that can form a clot within the arteries and cause cardiac arrest. When it comes to heart health, inflammation can build up fatty, cholesterol-rich plaque in blood vessels and raise the risk for a heart attack or stroke.

A 2022 study "Inhalation of low-dose Basil (Ocimum basilicum) essential oil improved cardiovascular health and plasma lipid markers in high fat diet-induced obese rats" published in Journal Food Sci. by Seong Jun Hong, Da-Som Kim, Jookyeong Lee, Chang Guk Boo, Moon Yeon Youn, Brandy Le, Jae Kyeom Kim, Eui-Cheol Shin, investigated the antiobesogenic effects of the inhalation of volatile compounds derived from Basil essential oil in high fat diet-induced obese rats. A total of 47 volatile compounds were identified in Basil essential oil using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Major volatile compounds identified by olfactory testing include linalool oxide, linalool, 1-menthene, and carvone. White adipose tissue significantly decreased in the rats that inhaled 0.3% Basil essential oil (more than +10%) compared to the control. Plasma marker analysis showed increased high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (ca. double fold) and decreased low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (more than -30%) levels in inhaled 1% Basil essential oil group compared to the control. Leptin significantly decreased in the 0.3 and 1% Basil essential oil groups (more than -70 and -85%, respectively). Last, systolic blood pressure at week 12 was significantly lower in inhaled 1% Basil essential oil group (more than -15%) compared to the control. The results of this study suggest that Basil essential oil inhalation may be effective in managing plasma lipid markers (cholesterols and leptin) and possibly metabolic disorders such as obesity. Practical Application: Changes in metabolic health markers, which are effected by inhalation of volatiles in Basil (Ocimum basilicum) essential oil, will provide physiological variations in vivo to the public. In this study, the opposite effects were identified between 0.3% and 1% inhalation, respectively. Therefore, our findings will provide optimized and useful guidance for inhalation of Basil essential oil.

A study in 2004 in Indian Journal Pharmacology evaluated the cardiac effects of extracts derived from the aerial parts of Ocimum basilicum. Results showed the alcoholic extract exhibited a cardiotonic effect and the aqueous extract produced a ß-adrenergic effect.

High Blood Pressure (Hypertension):

Basil seeds contains antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties which assists the muscles to relax and contract. It also maintains a healthy blood pressure in a person. Basil leaves is known to prevent the clumping together of blood platelet which can otherwise result to a blood clot and cause cardiac arrest. Consuming Basil surely promotes our cardiovascular health to a certain extent.

A 2011 review reported on findings that a Sweet Basil extract briefly reduced high blood pressure, possibly due to the extract’s eugenol content. Eugenol can block calcium channels in the body, lowering high blood pressure. However, few minutes after the researchers used the extract, the blood pressure returned to its high levels.

Another 2010 study "Antihypertensive effects of Ocimum basilicum L. (OBL) on blood pressure in renovascular hypertensive rats" published in Hypertension Research by Anwar Umar, Guzelnur Imam, Wuliya Yimin, Parhat Kerim, Ibadet Tohti, Bénédicte Berké and Nicholas Moore, evaluated the possible antihypertensive effects of Ocimum basilicum extract in renovascular hypertensive rats. Results showed reduction of systolic and diastolic blood pressure and reduction in cardiac hypertrophy and endothelin (ET)-1. Effects were consistent with an effect on the ET-converting enzyme.

Antihypertensive and Induced Hypertensive:

Ocimum basilicum Linn. (Basil) is an aromatic culinary herb that has shown a great potential in therapeutic world. It has many promising pharmacological activities that make it centre for investigations for many researchers.

A 2023 study "Phytochemical characterization, antioxidant activity and antihypertensive evaluation of Ocimum basilicum L. in l-NAME induced hypertensive rats and its correlation analysis" published in Heliyon, by Fatima Qamar, Aisha Sana, Safila Naveed, Shaheen Faizi, has been planned to determine chemical constituents of Basil leaves extracts and their in-vitro and ex-vivo antioxidant and in-vivo antihypertensive potential. GC-MS studies of non-polar extracts showed presence of 75 compounds including monoterpenes, hydrocarbons, sesquiterpenes, triterpenes, phyto-sterols and phthalates. Higher percentages of fatty acids were also identified. The major compounds include linalool (7.65%), terpineol (1.42%), tau-cadinol (13.55%), methyl palmitate (14.24%), palmitic acid (14.31%), linolenic acid (1.30%) and methyl linolenate (17.72%). Electron spray ionization mass spectrometry ESI-HRMS/MS of the polar extracts revealed the presence of alkaloids, phenolic acid, amino acid, coumarin, lignin, flavanoid and terpene derivative. Total phenolic content and total flavonoid content were determined using spectrophotometric technique and calculated as gallic acid equivalents GAE/g dry weight and rutin equivalent RE/g of dry weight respectively. The highest phenolic content and flavonoid content were found in ethyl acetate extract 9.40 mg GAE/g and 15.9 mg RE/g of dry weight. All the extracts showed significant antioxidant activity in DPPH and ABTS cation decolorization assays. Dichloromethane extract possess the highest DPPH scavenging activity, i.e., 64.12% ± 0.23 at concentration of 4 mg/ml. Moreover in ex-vivo studies all the extracts showed prominent effect by inhibiting AAPS induce oxidation in Human erythrocytes being 69.24% ± 0.18 in dichloromethane extract, 64.44% ± 0.04 in ethyl acetate and 53.33% ± 0.09 in acetone extract. The methanol extract of Ocimum basilicum exhibited significant decrease in systolic blood pressure in l-Name induced hypertensive rats at the dose of 50 mg/kg for 28 days. Total phenolic content had a higher linear correlation (r = 0.678) with antihypertensive activity, with a level of significance 95% showing that phenolic compounds in the leaves of the plant has important role in inhibiting l -NAME induced hypertension while flavonoid compounds may play a key role in the antioxidant activities of the plant, through synergism. Conclusively, Ocimum basilicum leaves with bioactive metabolites are a potential source for the development of antihypertensive drugs.

Cholesterol Levels:

Since Basil targets metabolic stress, it can also help with weight loss and cholesterol levels. Animal studies saw significant changes in rabbits’ fat molecules when they ate fresh Basil leaves. They had lower “bad” cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol) and higher “good” cholesterol (HDL-cholesterol).

One animal study found that the oil in holy Basil (eugenol) lowers stress-induced cholesterol levels. There was a reduction of total cholesterol in the kidney, liver, or heart in rats with and without diabetes after they ate holy Basil leaf powder.

A 2009 study published in Journal of Ethnopharmacology showed a significant vasorelaxant effect. It also suppressed elevated contractions induced by a hypercholesterolemic diet and inhibited platelet aggregation and reduced thrombin-induced platelet activation. The results show that the HCD statistically decreases vascular relaxation in HCG compared to NCG (p<0.001) and increases the vascular responses to phenylephrine (p<0.02). Ocimum basilicum extract exerts a significant vasorelaxant effect at 10(-5) M (p<0.01) and 10(-4) M carbachol (p=0.001). The plant extract also tends to suppress the elevated contractions induced by HCD (p=0.05). The extract inhibits ADP-induced platelet aggregation by 13%, 28.2%, 30.5%, 44.7% and 53% at a dose of 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 g/l, respectively. Thrombin-induced platelet activation was also reduced by 15%, 23%, 40%, 38.4%, and 42% at the same doses of extract described above.

Massaging your body with Basil oil helps in treating oxidative cellular stress and damage, thereby reducing the increased level of cholesterol and high blood pressure. You can also add 1 drop of Basil oil and 1 drop of Clove oil in your bathing water daily for obtaining these benefits.

Hyperlipidaemia and Atherosclerosis:

A 2006 study "Hypolipidaemic activity of aqueous Ocimum basilicum extract in acute hyperlipidaemia induced by triton WR-1339 in rats and its antioxidant property" published in Phytother Res. by Souliman Amrani, Hicham Harnafi, Nour El Houda Bouanani, Mohammed Aziz, Hana Serghini Caid, Stefano Manfredini, Elena Besco, Mariarosaria Napolitano, Elena Bravo, Ocimum basilicum is one of the medicinal plants widely used in Morocco to reduce plasma cholesterol and to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis-related diseases. However, mechanisms underlying the reported hypolipidaemic effect of this plant have not been investigated. This study evaluates the lipid lowering effect of aqueous Ocimum basilicum extract in Triton WR-1339-induced hyperlipidaemic rats. Hyperlipidaemia was developed in animals by intraperitoneal injection of Triton (200 mg/kg). After injection of Triton the animals were divided into three treatment groups: hyperlipidaemic, hyperlipidaemic plus herb extract and hyperlipidaemic plus fenofibrate treated rats. At 7 h after the Triton injection, levels of plasma cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL-cholesterol in rats treated also with the Ocimum basilicum extract (0.5 g/100 g body weight) were, respectively, 50%, 83% and 79% lower than Triton-treated rats and HDL-cholesterol was 129% higher than in rats given Triton alone. At 24 h following Ocimum basilicum administration, total cholesterol, triglycerides and LDL-cholesterol levels decreased by 56%, 63% and 68%, respectively, in comparison with the Triton treated group and HDL-cholesterol was not increased significantly. The hypolipidaemic effect exerted by Ocimum basilicum extract was markedly stronger than the effect induced by fenofibrate treatments. Further it was demonstrated that Ocimum basilicum aqueous extract displayed a very high antioxidant power. These results indicate that Ocimum basilicum extract may contain hypolipidaemic and antioxidant substances and its use as a therapeutic tool in hyperlipidaemic subjects may be of benefit and encourage further investigation in this field.

Cardiac Stimulant Activity:

A 2004 study "Cardiac stimulant activity of Ocimum basilicum Linn. extracts" published in Indian Journal Pharmacology by A Muralidharan, R Dhananjayan, evaluated the cardiac effects of extracts derived from the aerial parts of Ocimum basilicum. Results showed the alcoholic extract exhibited a cardiotonic effect and the aqueous extract produced a ß-adrenergic effect.

Platelet Aggregation Inhibition:

A 2009 study "Vasorelaxant and anti-platelet aggregation effects of aqueous Ocimum basilicum extract" published in Journal of Ethnopharmacology, Volume 125, Issue 1 by Souliman Amrani, Hicham Harnafi, Dounia Gadi, Hassane Mekhfi, Abdelkhaleq Legssyer, Mohammed Aziz, Françoise Martin-Nizard, Lisardo Bosca, showed a significant vasorelaxant effect. It also suppressed elevated contractions induced by a hypercholesterolemic diet and inhibited platelet aggregation and reduced thrombin-induced platelet activation.

Another 2006 study "Aqueous extracts of Ocimum basilicum L. (Sweet Basil) decrease platelet aggregation induced by ADP and thrombin in vitro and rats arterio–venous shunt thrombosis in vivo" published in Thrombosis Research by Ibadet Tohti, Maynur Tursuna, Anwar Umar, Subat Turdi, Horyat Imin and Nicholas Moore, evaluated an aqueoius extract of Ocimum basilicum for effects on platelet aggregation and experimental thrombus in rats. Results showed Ocimum basilicum to possess dose-dependent inhibitory effect on platelet aggregation induced by ADP and thrombin resulting in an anti-thrombotic effect in vivo.

Isoproterenol Induced Myocardial Infarction:

A 2012 study "Phytochemical screening and evaluation of cardioprotective activity of ethanolic extract of Ocimum basilicum L. (Basil) against isoproterenol induced myocardial infarction in rats" published in DARU Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences by Fatemeh Fathiazad, Amin Matlobi, Arash Khorrami, Sanaz Hamedeyazdan, Hamid Soraya, Mojtaba Hammami, Nasrin Maleki-Dizaji and Alireza Garjani, evaluated an ethanolic extract of aerial parts of Ocimum basilicum on cardiac functions and histopathological changes in isoproterenol-induced myocardial infarction in rats. Extract treatment significantly improved the severe myocardial necrosis and fibrosis and sharp reduction in LV contractility and marked increase in LVEDP seen in the isoproterenol group. The cardioprotective effects may be due to antioxidative activities.

Hematologic Diseases:

Blood Circulation:

Basil essential oil enhances the circulation of blood and enables to improve as well as enhanced numerous metabolic functions of the body. It will help in maintaining the functioning of blood circulation system, cardio vascular system, digestive system, defense mechanisms along with other body systems.

Protective Role in Benzene Induced Hematotoxicity:

A 2012 study "Effect of Methanolic Leaf Extract of Ocimum basilicum L. on Benzene-Induced Hematotoxicity in Mice" published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, Volume 2012 by S. Saha, M. K. Mukhopadhyay, P. D. Ghosh, and D. Nath, evaluated the protective role of a methanolic leaf extract against benzene-induced hematotoxicity in Swiss albino mice. Results indicated the secondary metabolites of the leaf extract of essential oil monoterpene geraniol and oxidized citral form showed modulatory effect in cell cycle deregulation and hematological abnormalities.

Infections:

Antibacterial:

In a 2022 review "Ocimum Species: A Review on Chemical Constituents and Antibacterial Activity" published in Molecules, by Hendra Dian Adhita Dharsono, Salsabila Aqila Putri, Dikdik Kurnia, Dudi Dudi, Mieke Hemiawati Satari, Ocimum is known to be one of the medicinal plants that have been used traditionally by local people. This plant contains components of secondary metabolites such as phenolics, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, and alkaloids. Therefore, in this paper, we will discuss five types of Ocimum species, namely Ocimum americanum, Ocimum basilicum, Ocimum gratissimum, Ocimum campechianum, and Ocimum sanctum. The five species are known to contain many chemical constituents and have good antibacterial activity against several pathogenic bacteria.

Infection by bacteria is one of the main problems in health. The use of commercial antibiotics is still one of the treatments to overcome these problems. However, high levels of consumption lead to antibiotic resistance. Several types of antibiotics have been reported to experience resistance. One solution that can be given is the use of natural antibacterial products. There have been many studies reporting the potential antibacterial activity of the Ocimum plant. Ocimum is known to be one of the medicinal plants that have been used traditionally by local people. This plant contains components of secondary metabolites such as phenolics, flavonoids, steroids, terpenoids, and alkaloids.

"A Review on Chemical Constituents and Antibacterial Activity" published in Molecules 2022, by Hendra Dian Adhita Dharsono, Salsabila Aqila Putri, Dikdik Kurnia, Dudi Dudi, Mieke Hemiawati Satari, we will discuss five types of Ocimum species, namely Ocimum americanum, Ocimum basilicum, Ocimum gratissimum, Ocimum campechianum, and Ocimum sanctum. The five species are known to contain many chemical constituents and have good antibacterial activity against several pathogenic bacteria.

A 2018 study published in Biomed J Sci & Tech Res., by Thongchai Taechowisan, Jakkrit Jantiya, Nutthapol Mungchukeatsakul, and Waya S Phutdhawong evaluated the antibacterial activity of major chemical components in a crude extract of Ocimum basilicum against MESA isolated from clinical specimens. TLC and column chromatography isolated two major compounds: linalool and 1,8-cineole. The crude extract and isolated compounds exhibited excellent antimicrobial activity at dose level of 34.5 mg/disc for disc diffusion method.

A 2014 study done in Western Ghats of North West Karnataka, India for essential oil of flowering aerial parts yielded 25 constituents. Major constituents were methyl eugenol 39.3% and methyl chavicol 38.3%, accounting for 98.6% of the total oil. The oil was found active against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria and fungi.

Another 2011 study of ethanol, methanol, and hexane extracts for antimicrobial properties "Antibacterial and Antioxidant study of Ocimum basilicum Labiatae (Sweet Basil)" published in Journal of Advanced Pharmacy Education & Research 2 by Dinanath D Patil, Dnyandeo K. Mhaske, Gurumeet C. Wadhawa, showed both hexane and ethanol extracts inhibited the isolates, the hexane extract showing stronger and broader spectrum of antibacterial activity. The ethanol extract showed more antioxidant activity than standard antioxidant.

Antibacterial (Escherichia coli):

Apart from all the goodness Basil possesses, its antibacterial properties are among the most noted ones. It helps fight a range of infections, including skin allergies, urinary infections, respiratory and abdominal infections. It will help for treating the problems of genito-urinary system like bladder infection, vaginal infection and gonorrhea. Basil is also used as a mouthwash to relieve tooth for headache. It is an excellent mouth freshener and oral disinfectant and destroys 99% of germs and bacteria found in the mouth. These leaves are quite effective for several mouth infections like ulcer.

When researchers from the Medical University of Łódź in Poland tested the antibacterial activity of Basil oil against Escherichia coli and other powerful bacteria that were gathered from sick patients with infections, the results showed that Basil was effective in acting against the bacteria strains and helping to inhibit their growth. This has led researchers to continue to study how Basil and other antibacterial oils may help fight antibiotic resistant illnesses and infections.

A 2023 study "The effect of different aqueous solutions ratios of Ocimum basilicum utilized in AgNPs synthesis on the inhibition of bacterial growth" published in Sci Rep., by Motahher A Qaeed, Abdulmajeed Hendi, Ahmed S Obaid, Asad A Thahe, Abdalghaffar M Osman, A Ismail, A Mindil, Alharthi A Eid, Faisal Aqlan, Nadir M A Osman, Ammar Al-Farga, Saleh M Al-Maaqar, Ala'eddin A Saif, examined the effect of varying concentrations of Ocimum basilicum aqueous extract, which was done via the green synthesis of Silver nanoparticles (AgNPs), on the identification of the most effective concentration for bacteria inhibitory activity. Different concentrations of the aqueous Ocimum basilicum extract (0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1.00 mM) were used as reducing and stabilizing agent to synthesize AgNPs by means of the reduction method. The crystal structure and morphology of the NPs were characterized UV-Vis spectra, X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The antibacterial efficacy of AgNPs was studied against E. coli ATCC 35218 using well diffusion, MIC, MBC, and time-kill curve. The dark yellow color of the Ocimum basilicum aqueous solution indicates the successful synthesis process of the AgNPs. UV-spectra of the AgNPs display a gradual increase of absorption in sequence with concentration increase of aqueous Ocimum basilicum extract solution from 0.25 to 1.00 mM. This, in turn, led to a shift in the wavelength from 488 to 497 nm, along with a change in the nanoparticle size from 52 to 8 nm. The tests also showed a high activity of the particles against bacteria (E. coli), ranging between 15.6 and 62.5 µg/ml. Based on AgNPs, it was confirmed that an aqueous Ocimum basilicum extract can be used as an effective, reducing and stabilizing agent for the synthesis of different sizes of AgNPs based on the solvent concentration. The AgNPs also proved to be effective in inhibiting and killing bacteria.

A 2014 study "Antibacterial activity of ethanolic extract of Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) leaves against Escherichia coli in experimentally infected Rats" published in Kufa Journal For Veterinary Medical Sciences Vol.5 No.2, by Sarhan R. Sarhan, Orooba M.S. Ibrahim, evaluated the in-vivo antibacterial activity of leaves extract inn rats with diarrhea induced by oral administration of pathogenic E. coli. An ethanol extract of leaves at dose of 200 mg/kbw showed antidiarrheal activity which may be due to secondary metabolite constituents.

In one 2013 study, Basil essential oil was used to test its effectiveness against multi-drug resistant bacteria strains of Escherichia coli. The Basil essential oil was active against every strain of Escherichia coli it was tested with. It was also shown to have anti-microbial properties that were found to fight mold, yeast, and bacteria. The bacteria came from people with respiratory, abdominal, urinary, or skin infections, as well as from hospital equipment. The results showed that the oil was active against these bacteria. The researchers concluded that certain preparations of Basil oil could help treat or prevent some types of infection. In studies, Basil extract is even shown to be helpful in inhibiting resistant strains of bacteria that don’t respond to antibiotic treatments.

Antibacterial (Streptococcus mutans):

Streptococcus mutans is one of the bacteria which contributes to biofilm formation and causes dental caries. The inhibition of SrtA, gbpC, and Ag I/II is a promising target to be developed as an antibacterial. Ocimum bacilicum is known to have antibacterial activity.

A 2022 in vitro and in silico studies "Potential Nevadensin from Ocimum basilicum as Antibacterial Agent against Streptococcus mutans" published in Comb Chem High Throughput Screen., by Salsabila Aqila Putri, Aldina Amalia Nur Shadrina, Euis Julaeha, Dikdik Kurnia, evaluate the potential nevadensin as antibacterial against S. mutans. Antibacterial analysis was carried out by disc diffusion and micro-dilution methods and the in-silico study was performed with ligand-protein docking. The result showed that the MIC and MBC values of nevadensin are 900 and 7200 µg/mL, respectively. The binding energy of nevadensin to SrtA, gbpC, and Ag I/II were -4.53, 8.37, -6.12 kcal/mol, respectively. Nevadensin shows moderate activity as an antibacterial against S. mutans. Meanwhile, in silico studies showed it has the same binding strength as chlorhexidine in inhibiting SrtA, whereas to gbpC and Ag I/II, it has a weaker binding affinity. Therefore, nevadensin has the potential as natural antibacterial against S. mutans by inhibiting SrtA.

Antibacterial (Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli):

A 2022 study "Assessment of The Antibacterial Susceptibility of Ocimum basilicum" published in Cell Mol Biol (Noisy-le-grand)., by Sulaiman Alsalamah, Mohamed I Algonuim, Nosiba Basher, Abdel Moneim E Sulieman, was designed to assess the antibacterial activities of an ethanol extract of Ocimum basilicum. Using disc diffusion and direct contact methods, the extracts were tested in vitro against three bacterial strains. The direct contact test was used and compared with the agar diffusion test. The optical density was measured using a spectrophotometer to collect data. The results showed that methanol extracts of plant parts of Ocimum basilicum leaves contained tannins, flavonoids, glycosides, and steroids, whereas alkaloids, saponins, and terpenoids. In contrast, Ocimum basilicum seeds contained saponins, flavonoids, and steroids. The Ocimum basilicum stems contained saponins and flavonoids, Ocimum basilicum had antibacterial activity against the identified bacteria. The plant extracts inhibited Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli. The result revealed that the Ocimum basilicum leaves were more potent than seeds and stems. Ocimum basilicum ethanol extract combined with established conventional antibiotics may enhance their antimicrobial properties, giving rise to synergistic effects against clinically important bacterial species.

Antibacterial (Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Vibrio cholerae, Vibrio parahaemolyticus):

A 2017 study "Antibacterial and Antioxidant Constituents of Extracts of Endophytic Fungi Isolated from Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora Leaves" published in Curr Microbiol., by Piyamas Atiphasaworn, Sakon Monggoot, Eleni Gentekaki, Siraprapa Brooks, Patcharee Pripdeevech, Fourteen fungal endophytes were isolated from the Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora leaves collected from Northern Thailand. Eight genera were identified including Aspergillus, Ascochyta, Nigrospora, Blastomyces, Colletotrichum, Exidia, Clitopilus, and Nomuraea. The antibacterial activity of crude extracts from all endophytic fungi was tested against nine human bacterial pathogens: Staphylococcus aureus, Staphylococcus epidermidis, Bacillus subtilis, Bacillus cereus, Escherichia coli, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Vibrio cholerae, and Vibrio parahaemolyticus. All crude extracts showed some degree of antibacterial activity, but the crude extract from Nigrospora MFLUCC16-0605 exhibited broad spectrum activity with MIC values ranging from 7.81 to 250 µg/mL. The antioxidant activity of all crude extracts was also investigated by DPPH radical scavenging assay. Crude extract from MFLUCC16-0605 had high antioxidant activity (IC₅₀ value of 15.36 μg/mL) comparable to the trolox and gallic acid standards showing IC₅₀ values of 2.56 and 12.89 μg/mL, respectively. The chemical composition of the crude extract from MFLUCC16-0605 was determined using GC-MS. Sixty-two compounds were identified representing 92.09% of crude extract with six major components including 5E,9E-farnesyl acetone, columellarin, totarene, laurenan-2-one, and 8S,13-cedranediol. PCR amplification and sequencing of the barcoding region identified MFLUCC16-0605 as belonging to Nigrospora genus. The notable activities of MFLUCC16-0605 indicate that the endophyte is a potent natural resource and its use as an antibacterial/antioxidant agent should be further explored.

Antibacterial (Staphylococcus aureus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa):

A 2016 study "Antibacterial activity and association study with antibiotics against bacteria of clinical importance" published in Pharmaceutical Biology by Araújo SV, Pereira SJ, de Luna FPH, Fernanda RFA, Douglas MCH, Beuttenmuller NAL, Oliveira LE, evaluated the effects of the combination of standard antibiotics and Ocimum basilicum essential oil against bacterial strains Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Ocimum basilicum essential oil with standard antibiotics may increase antibacterial activity through synergism. The antibacterial activity of Basil essential oil may be associated with Linalool. Study of ethanol, methanol, and hexane extracts for antimicrobial properties showed both hexane and ethanol extracts inhibited the isolates, the hexane extract showing stronger and broader spectrum of antibacterial activity. The ethanol extract showed more antioxidant activity than standard antioxidant.

Antimicrobial:

A 2018 study "Major Compounds from Ocimum basilicum L. and their Antimicrobial Activity against Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus aureus" published in Biomed J Sci & Tech Res. by Thongchai Taechowisan, Jakkrit Jantiya, Nutthapol Mungchukeatsakul, and Waya S Phutdhawong, evaluated the antibacterial activity of major chemical components in a crude extract of Ocimum basilicum against MESA isolated from clinical specimens. TLC and column chromatography isolated two major compounds: linalool and 1,8-cineole. The crude extract and isolated compounds exhibited excellent antimicrobial activity at dose level of 34.5 mg/disc for disc diffusion method.

A 2017 review "Antimicrobial Activity of Basil, Oregano, and Thyme Essential Oils" published in Journal Microbiol Biotechnol. by Hercules Sakkas, Chrissanthy Papadopoulou, for centuries, plants have been used for a wide variety of purposes, from treating infectious diseases to food preservation and perfume production. Presently, the increasing resistance of microorganisms to currently used antimicrobials in combination with the appearance of emerging diseases requires the urgent development of new, more effective drugs. Plants, due to the large biological and structural diversity of their components, constitute a unique and renewable source for the discovery of new antibacterial, antifungal, and antiparasitic compounds. In the present paper, the history, composition, and antimicrobial activities of the Basil, Oregano, and Thyme essential oils are reviewed.

A 2014 review for essential oil of flowering aerial parts "Chemical composition and antimicrobial activity of the essential oil of Ocimum basilicum L. (Sweet Basil) from Western Ghats of North West Karnataka, India" published in Anc Sci Life, by Rajesh K. Joshi, yielded twenty-five constituents. Major constituents were methyl eugenol (39.3%) and methyl chavicol (38.3%), accounting for 98.6% of the total oil. The oil was found active against gram-negative and gram-positive bacteria and fungi.

Antimicrobial (Escherichia coli, Enterococcus faecalis, Klebsiella pneumonia, Staphylococcus aureus):

Antibiotic resistance is an important and emerging alarm for public health that requires development of new potential antibacterial strategies. In recent years, nanoscale materials have emerged as an alternative way to fight pathogens. Many researchers have shown great interest in nanoparticles using noble metals, such as silver, gold, and platinum, even though numerous nanomaterials have shown toxicity. To overcome the problem of toxicity, nanotechnology merged with green chemistry to synthesize nature-friendly nanoparticles from plants.

A 2022 study "Antimicrobial Applications of Green Synthesized Bimetallic Nanoparticles from Ocimum basilicum" published in Pharmaceutics, by Pragati Rajendra More, Carla Zannella, Veronica Folliero, Francesco Foglia, Romualdo Troisi, Alessandro Vergara, Gianluigi Franci, Anna De Filippis, Massimiliano Galdiero, describe the synthesis of NPs using silver (AgNPs) and platinum (PtNPs) alone or in combination (AgPtNPs) in the presence of Ocimum basilicum leaf extract. Ocimum basilicum is a well-known medicinal plant with antibacterial compounds. A preliminary chemical-physical characterization of the extract was conducted. The size, shape and elemental analysis were carried out using UV-Visible spectroscopy, dynamic light scattering (DLS), and zeta potential. Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) confirmed polydisperse nanoparticles with spherical shape. The size of the particles was approximately 59 nm, confirmed by DLS analysis, and the polydisperse index was 0.159. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) demonstrated an effective and selective capping of the phytoconstituents on the NPs. The cytotoxic activities of AgNPs, PtNPs and AgPtNPs were assessed on different epithelial cell models, using the 3-[4.5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2.5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide (MTT) cell proliferation assay, and discovered low toxicity, with a cell viability of 80%. The antibacterial potential of the NPs was evaluated against Escherichia coli (E. coli), Enterococcus faecalis (E. faecalis), Klebsiella pneumonia (K. pneumoniae), and Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) strains. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) assays showed AgPtNP activity till the least concentration of NPs (3.15-1.56 µg/mL) against ATCC, MS, and MDR E. coli, E. faecalis, and S. aureus and the Kirby-Bauer method showed that AgPtNPs gave a zone of inhibition for Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria in a range of 9-25 mm. In addition, we obtained AgPtNP synergistic activity in combination with vancomycin or ampicillin antibiotics. Taken together, these results indicate that bimetallic nanoparticles, synthesized from Ocimum basilicum leaf extract, could represent a natural, ecofriendly, cheap, and safe method to produce alternative antibacterial strategies with low cytotoxicity.

Antimicrobial (Foodborne Microorganisms, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli):

The antimicrobial nature of Basil essential oil makes this natural cleaning spray a great choice for sanitizing.

A 2020 study "Synergistic antimicrobial action and effect of active chitosan-gelatin biopolymeric films containing Thymus vulgaris, Ocimum basilicum and Origanum majorana essential oils against Escherichia coli and Staphylococcus aureus" published in Cell Mol Biol (Noisy-le-grand) by Victoria Vilaça Martins Alencar De Souza, Bruna Lourenço Crippa, Jaqueline Milagres De Almeida, Raiza Iacuzio, William N Setzer, Javad Sharifi-Rad, Nathália Cristina Cirone Silva, to replace synthetic preservatives and expand green consumption, several essential oils have been tested in foods and food packaging due to their antimicrobial properties. This study aimed to analyze the synergistic antimicrobial action of a chitosan-gelatin based active biopolymers with the addition of essential oils. The antimicrobial agents were tested against foodborne microorganisms, Staphylococcus aureus and Escherichia coli strains. The antibacterial activity of Thymus vulgaris, Ocimum basilicum, Origanum majorana, and the synergistic interactions among them were assessed according to the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC) using the microdilution method. Chitosan-gelatin based active biopolymers were developed, and 23% (w/w) of each essential oil and combined oils were added. The antimicrobial effect of active films was measured using the disk diffusion method. Active films with the addition of essential oils have potential applications as active packaging agents, especially those that demonstrated inhibition zones. Combined essential oils can be used to enhance the antimicrobial activity, ensuring reduced doses used in active packaging and decreasing the association with adverse sensory characteristics.

Antimicrobial (Candida albicans):

In a 2005 study "Antimicrobial Effects of Ocimum basilicum (Labiatae) Extract" published in Turk J Biol. researches Ahmet Adiguzel et al. suggest that Ocimum basilicum leaf extracts possess compounds with antimicrobial properties against Candida albicans and some bacterial pathogens.

Antifungal (Candida albicans, Curvilaria lunata, Aspergillus parasiticus and Aspergillus flavus):

Fungal infections remain a serious problem worldwide that require effective therapeutic strategies. Essential oil of Basil (Ocimum basilicum L., BEO) being traditionally used extensively for the treatment of bacterial and fungal infection has a long history. However, the potential mechanism of action was still obscure, especially from the metabolic perspective.

A 2020 study "Microbial metabolomics and network analysis reveal fungistatic effect of Basil (Ocimum basilicum) oil on Candida albicans" published in Journal Ethnopharmacol by Qiandan Miao, Linjing Zhao, Yuting Wang, Fangjia Hao, Peipei Sun, Peng He, Yumin Liu, Jiashuai Huang, Xijian Liu, Xiaohui Liu, Guoying Deng, Hongsen Li, Lingai Li, Yingao Tang, Lixin Wang, Meiqing Feng, Wei Jia, the fungistatic effect of BEO on Candida albicans was evaluated by measurement of minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) and morphological analysis. A high-coverage microbial metabolomics approach was utilized to identify the alterations of intracellular metabolites of C. albicans at mid-logarithmic growth phase in response to the subinhibitory concentration of BEO, by using gas chromatography coupled to time-of-fight mass spectrometry (GC-TOFMS). Following the metabolic fingerprinting, systematic network analysis was performed to illustrate the potential mechanism of BEO involved in the suppression of C. albicans. The damage in cellular membranes of C. albicans treated by BEO above MIC was observed on the scanning electron microscope (SEM) micrographs. Metabolomics results showed that, among 140 intracellular metabolites identified by comparison with reference standards, thirty-four had significantly changed abundances under 0.2 MIC of BEO treatment, mainly involving in central carbon metabolism (glycolysis/gluconeogenesis, pentose phosphate pathway and TCA cycle), amino acids, polyamines and lipids metabolism. Pathway and network analyses further found that fifteen ingredients of BEO mainly terpenoids and phenyl-propanoids, potentially participated in the metabolic regulation and may be responsible for the suppression of C. albicans. The findings highlighted that integrated microbial metabolomics and network analyses could provide a methodological support in understanding the functional mechanisms of natural antimicrobial agents and contribute to drug discovery.

A 2016 study "Antifungal, phytotoxic and hemagglutination activity of methanolic extracts of Ocimum basilicum" published in J Tradit Chin Med. by Kafeel Ahmad, Ali talha Khalil, Ramla Somayya, reports some of the pharmacological features of the medicinal plant Ocimum basilicum. Of the eight strains investigated only Candida albicans and Curvilaria lunata were found to be least affected by plant extract while the rest were significantly inhibited. Moderate phytotoxic activity was observed against lemna minor. Hemagglutination activity showed absence of phytolectins and hence no agglutination of erythrocytes. The crude extract of Ocimum basilicum has significant properties against fungi and phytotoxic substances.

Another 2012 study on Antifungal activity of Basil essential oil against Toxinogenic Fungi isolated from Peanut seeds in post-harvest in Benin, published in The International Research Journal of Biological Sciences, concluded that the essential oil of Basil is used as an antifungal agent in protecting peanuts post harvest in Benin against the toxic strains of fungi like Aspergillus parasiticus and Aspergillus flavus.

This study justifies the use of the Basil leaves in the traditional medicine for treating numerous ailments and also reports “the essential oil of fresh leaves of Basil as aflatoxin inhibitor and fungal growth suppressor. Based on these potentials, essential oil of Ocimum canum may be recommended as preservative of stored food commodities from fungal and aflatoxin contamination in storage system".

Antifungal (Apergillus carbonarius, Aspergillus niger):

"In vitro and in vivo efficacy of poly(lactic acid) nanofiber packaging containing essential oils from Ocimum basilicum L. and Ocimum gratissimum L. against Aspergillus carbonarius and Aspergillus niger in table grapes" published in Food Chem., 2023 by Rafaela Magalhães Brandão, Luís Roberto Batista, Juliano Elvis de Oliveira, Richard Bispo Barbosa, David Lee Nelson, Maria Graças Cardoso, Apergillus carbonarius and Aspergillus niger are the principal fungi that attack table grapes, and they are responsible for producing and contaminating these fruits with ochratoxin A. Packaging containing essential oils from Ocimum gratissimum L. and Ocimum basilicum L. encapsulated in poly(lactic acid) (PLA) nanofibers were produced, the antifungal and antiocratoxigenic activities against A. carbonarius and A. niger were evaluated in vitro and in vivo, and the effect of these packages on the quality of table grapes was determined. The nanofibers were produced by the Solution Blow Spinning technique and characterized by Scanning Electron Microscopy and Thermogravimetric Analysis. Fungal contamination and ochratoxin A production were significantly controlled by PLA nanofibers containing the essential oils and the physicochemical parameters of the grapes were preserved, preserving the quality and the shelf life of the fruit. Therefore, the active packaging developed herein has potential and may be suitable for application in fruits.

Antifungal (Fusarium oxysporum):

Fusarium of date palm is a vascular fusariosis caused by a telluric fungus Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. albedinis (F.O.A) which affects the best date varieties in Algeria. Several medicinal plants are adapted with the climatic complexity of the Saharan region, among these plants in the south-west of Algeria Salvia officinalis and Ocimum basilicum.

In a 2022 study "In Vitro Inhibitory Effect of Some Secondary Metabolites Extract from Ocimum basilicum and Salvia officinalis Against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp albedinis of Phoenix dactylifera. L" published in Appl Biochem Biotechnol., by Nora Nahal Bouderba, Khalid Mohamed Khalid, Hamid Kadi, the aim of this work is to study the antifungal effect of flavonoid extracts from Salvia officinalis and Ocimum basilicum leaves by the technique described by Bouchelta et al. (2005), as well the antifungal effect of the aqueous extract of these plants against Fusarium oxysporum f.sp. albedinis isolated from the grove of Igli. The evaluation of the antifungal activity revealed a slight mycelial growth anti-proportional to the concentration of flavonoid extract added to the culture medium with an inhibition index of 73.04% at the concentration 3.17 μg/ml and 57.42% at the concentration 1.13 µg/ml for flavonoids extract of Ocimum basilicum and Salvia officinalis, respectively. In addition, the aqueous extract revealed an inhibition index of 35.15% at the concentration of 0.33 mg/ml and 10.54% at the concentration of 3.92 mg/ml for Salvia officinalis and Ocimum basilicum, respectively.

Antifungal (Aspergillus, Ascochyta, Nigrospora, Blastomyces, Colletotrichum, Exidia, Clitopilus, Nomuraea):

Anti-Viral:

Viral infections are very common in kids and teenagers. Basil leaves helps to fight against ailments caused due to virus, bacteria, molds and yeasts. Basil is the best herb which can offer protection by combating candida virus and other forms of skin irritation.

A study of crude aqueous and ethanolic extracts yielded apigenin, linalool and ursolic acid, exhibiting a broad spectrum of antiviral activities, especially against coxsackie virus B1 and enterovirus.

The essential oil of Basil has antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic and antiviral properties that help in healing numerous skin disorders including acne and dermatitis. 3 drops of Basil oil blended with 3 drops of Lavender oil and 3 ml of Coconut oil can be applied on acne, marks, ringworm, eczema, athletes’ foot, leucoderma, itches and insect bites for improved results.

Dengue Virus:

Cucumber mosaic virus (CMV) causes a significant threat to crop output sustainability and human nutrition worldwide, since it is one of the most prevalent plant viruses infecting most kinds of plants. Nowadays, different types of nanomaterials are applied as a control agent against different phytopathogens. However, their effects against viral infections are still limited.

In a 2022 study "Ocimum basilicum-Mediated Synthesis of Silver Nanoparticles Induces Innate Immune Responses against Cucumber Mosaic Virus in Squash" published in Plants (Basel), by Ahmed Abdelkhalek, Hamada El-Gendi, Fatimah O Alotibi, Abdulaziz A Al-Askar, Toufic Elbeaino, Said I Behiry, Kamel A Abd-Elsalam, Hassan Moawad, the antiviral activities of the biosynthesized silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) mediated by aqueous extract of Ocimum basilicum against cucumber mosaic virus in squash (Cucurbita pepo L.) were investigated. The prepared Ag-NPs were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDX), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) and zeta potential distribution techniques. DLS, SEM, and TEM analyses showed that the Ag-NPs were spherical, with sizes ranging from 26.3 to 83 nm with an average particle size of about 32.6 nm. FTIR identified different functional groups responsible for the capping and stability of Ag-NPs. The zeta potential was reported as being -11.1 mV. Under greenhouse conditions, foliar sprays of Ag-NPs (100 µg/mL) promoted growth, delayed disease symptom development, and significantly reduced CMV accumulation levels of treated plants compared to non-treated plants. Treatment with Ag-NPs 24 h before or after CMV infection reduced CMV accumulation levels by 92% and 86%, respectively. There was also a significant increase in total soluble carbohydrates, free radical scavenging activity, antioxidant enzymes (PPO, SOD, and POX), as well as total phenolic and flavonoid content. Furthermore, systemic resistance was induced by significantly increasing the expression levels of pathogenesis-related genes (PR-1 and PR-5) and polyphenolic pathway genes (HCT and CHI). These findings suggest that Ag-NPs produced by O. basilicum could be used as an elicitor agent and as a control agent in the induction and management of plant viral infections.

Currently, there are no therapies to prevent severe dengue disease. Essential oils (EOs) can serve as primary sources for research and the discovery of phytomedicines for alternative therapy. Fourteen essential oils samples were obtained by distillation from six plants used in Colombian folk medicine.

In another 2022 study "Essential Oils from Colombian Plants: Antiviral Potential against Dengue Virus Based on Chemical Composition, In Vitro and In Silico Analyses" published in Molecules, by Lina Silva-Trujillo, Elizabeth Quintero-Rueda, Elena E Stashenko, Sergio Conde-Ocazionez, Paola Rondón-Villarreal, Raquel E Ocazionez, GC/MS analysis identified 125 terpenes. Cytopathic effect (CPE) reduction assays revealed differences in antiviral activity. essential oils of Lippia alba, citral chemotype and carvone-rich fraction; Lippia origanoides, phellandrene chemotype; and Turnera diffusa, exhibited strong antiviral activity (IC50: 29 to 82 µg/mL; SI: 5.5 to 14.3). Essential oils of Piper aduncum, Ocimum basilicum, and L. origanoides, carvacrol, and thymol chemotypes, exhibited weak antiviral activity (32 to 53% DENV-CPE reduction at 100 µg/mL; SI > 5.0). Cluster and one-way ANOVA analyses suggest that the strong antiviral activity of essential oils could be attributed to increased amounts of non-phenolic oxygenated monoterpenes and sesquiterpene hydrocarbons. Docking analyses (AutoDock Vina) predicted binding affinity between the DENV-2 E protein and terpenes: twenty sesquiterpene hydrocarbons (−8.73 to −6.91 kcal/mol), eight oxygenated monoterpenes (−7.52 to −6.98 kcal/mol), and seven monoterpene hydrocarbons (−7.60 to −6.99 kcal/mol). This study reports for the first time differences in the antiviral activity of essential oils against DENV, corresponding to their composition of monoterpenes and sesquiterpenes.

SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19 - Corona Virus):

The SARS-CoV-2 virus is a disease that has mild to severe effects on patients, which can even lead to death. One of the enzymes that act as DNA replication is the main protease, which becomes the main target in the inhibition of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. In finding effective drugs against this virus, Ocimum basilicum is a potential herbal plant because it has been tested to have high phytochemical content and bioactivity. Apigenin-7-glucuronide, dihydrokaempferol-3-glucoside, and aesculetin are polyphenolic compounds found in Ocimum basilicum.

A 2023 study "In silico Study of Antiviral Activity of Polyphenol Compounds from Ocimum basilicum by Molecular Docking, ADMET, and Drug-Likeness Analysis" published in Adv Appl Bioinform Chem., by Dikdik Kurnia, Salsabila Aqila Putri, Sefren Geiner Tumilaar, Achmad Zainuddin, Hendra Dian Adhita Dharsono, Meiny Faudah Amin, analyze the mechanism of inhibition of the three polyphenolic compounds in Ocimum basilicum against the main protease and to predict pharmacokinetic activity and the drug-likeness of a compound using the Lipinski Rule of Five. The method used is to predict the molecular docking inhibition mechanism using Autodock 4.0 tools and use pkcsm and protox online web server to analyze ADMET and Drug-likeness. The binding affinity for apigenin-7-glucuronide was -8.77 Kcal/mol, dihydrokaempferol-3-glucoside was -8.96 Kcal/mol, and aesculetin was -5.79 Kcal/mol. Then, the inhibition constant values were 375.81 nM, 270.09 nM, and 57.11 µM, respectively. Apigenin-7-glucuronide and dihydrokaempferol-3-glucoside bind to the main protease enzymes on the active sites of CYS145 and HIS41, while aesculetin only binds to the active sites of CYS145. On ADMET analysis, these three compounds met the predicted pharmacokinetic parameters, although there are some specific parameters that must be considered especially for aesculetin compounds. Meanwhile, on drug-likeness analysis, apigenin-7-glucuronide and dihydrokaempferol-3-glucoside compounds have one violation and aesculetin have no violation. Based on the data obtained, Apigenin-7-glucuronide and dihydrokaempferol-3-glucoside are compounds that have more potential to have an antiviral effect on the main protease enzyme than aesculetin. Based on pharmacokinetic parameters and drug-likeness, three compounds can be used as lead compounds for further research.

Digestive Disorders:

Sweet Basil contains eugenol. This chemical compound has anti-inflammatory properties that ensure that your digestive tract is healthy. Basil benefits your digestive and nervous system while ensuring that you have optimal digestion and a proper pH balance in your body. Basil helps balance acid within the body and restore the body’s proper pH level. This can improve digestion and immunity by helping healthy bacteria flourish within the gut microflora, while also decreasing harmful bacteria that can cause disease.

Traditionally, Basil has also been used to help reduce bloating and water retention, loss of appetite, stomach cramps, acid reflux, and even to kill stomach worms or parasites. Basil oil may also reduce unwanted gas as well as excessive gas quickly upon ingestion; also it can be consumed to assist along with bowel pain. As with every other essential oils, you need to meet with a certified aromatherapy specialist before you take oil internally.

Prepare a Basil tincture in the case gastrointestinal parasite infections, take 50 g of dried Basil herb (or ½ cup of fresh raw material) pour 250 ml of 60% alcohol. Close tightly and leave for maceration for 14 days. After this time, filter and pour into a bottle. Drink up to 3 times a day, 2 teaspoons diluted with water or milk

Upset Stomach:

Basil leaves been seen as a traditional remedy to treat a variety of tummy problems. The essential oil of Basil has been seen as a traditional remedy to treat a variety of tummy problems in addition to indigestion. Consuming Basil could help reduce bloating and water retention. It can even stimulate loss of appetite and could cure acid reflux as well. Basil seeds are generally utilized to offer rest from stomach upset. Because of its carminative effects, it really is effective for the treatment of digestive disorders like stomach cramps, flatulence, constipation, irregular bowel movements as well as indigestion.

Indigestion (Dyspepsia):

A 2005 double-blind placebo-controlled study "Effects of Ocimum Basilicum on Functional Dyspepsia" published in IJMS by M. Rafieian-kopaei, K. Hosseini-asl, showed Ocimum basilicum seems to relieve functional dyspepsia in female and young patients with dysmotility.

Chronic Indigestion (Functional Dyspepsia):

A 2005 double-blind placebo-controlled study "Effects of Ocimum Basilicum on Functional Dyspepsia" showed Ocimum basilicum seems to relieve functional dyspepsia in female and young patients with dysmotility.

To regulating digestion, take 2 teaspoons of Basil herb pour 250 ml of boiling water, then cover and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes. Filter it and after cooling, drink one glass 2-3 times a day. ½ teaspoon of dried or fresh Basil leaf in water can frequently assist calm indigestion as well as alleviate feelings of fullness.

Pour 1 l (1 quart) boiling water over a number of chopped dried Basil leaves. Let cool as well as strain. Consume half a cup 3 times each day.

Acidity and Heartburn:

Acidity problems are quite normal nowadays because of defective lifestyle and incorrect dietary pattern. Basil seeds help to neutralise the acidic effect of Hydrochloric Acid in the body, which can bring relief from acidity and heartburn. Basil seeds are having cooling and soothing effects on the stomach

Take 1 cup of milk and 1 tbsp Basil seeds, stir it well and drink the same to lessen burning sensation within your stomach.

Gastric Ulcer:

A 2007 study "Prevention of Ethanol-induced Gastric Mucosal Injury by Ocimum basilicum Seed Extract in Rats" published in ASM Science Journal by Mahmood A.A., Sidik K. and Fouad H.M., showed the seed extracts of Basil to possess significant anti-ulcer activity against ethanol-induced ulceration in animal models.

Metabolism:

The amount of good metabolism is essential for keeping body fat and healthy. Basil is a good source of manganese that helps the body to help enzymes that help metabolize amino acids, cholesterol, and carbohydrates. It also helps to metabolize vitamins that are related to glucose.

Loss of Appetite:

Include 1 tablespoon of dried Basil leaves to 300 ml (10 oz) boiling water. Right after One minute eliminate through the heat as well as allow stay for 30 minutes. Strain as well as drink 80 ml (2,70 oz) 15 minutes before you eat 3 times each day.

Constipation:

The soaked Basil seeds whenever consumed helps you to cleanse the inner stomach. It guarantees easy bowel movement and helps to flush out toxin through the stomach. It is also taken along with milk before you go to bed to help ease constipation.

Basil physiological salt used for enemas (150 ml rectally), pour 50 g of Basil herb into 1 glass of saline (available at pharmacies). Set aside for 20 minutes and drain.

Nausea and Vomit:

Basil essential oil may be used to avoid vomiting, especially when the source of the nausea is motion sickness, but in addition from a number of other causes.

Respiratory Conditions:

Basil essential oil is beneficial in supplying rest from colds, influenza as well as related fevers. Because of its antispasmodic nature, it really is commonly used to deal with the signs of whooping cough. The herb is effective in the cure of respiratory disease, in accordance with recent studies. A combination of the herb, along with ginger and honey is a cure for asthma, cough, cold, influenza and bronchitis. Just boil it in the glass of water as well as consume it.

Adding 2 drops of Basil oil and 1 drop of Eucalyptus oil in steam inhalation can help in relieving cold, cough, nasal congestion, sinusitis, sore throat, watery eyes and difficulties in breathing due to excess of mucus and phlegm deposits in the nasal and bronchial passages.

To assist calm sore throats, particularly, should the pain and soreness moved to the ears. Apply a couple of drops of Basil in your fingertips as well as rub in the affected area. Continue with the exact same steps together with the lemon oil. In case you have sensitive skin you can include both of these oils to the carrier oil just like Olive oil, Coconut oil and even Canola oil.

Boiling Basil leaves along with honey as well as Ginger is wonderful for dealing with asthma, bronchitis, cough, cold, and influenza. Boiling the leaves, Cloves, as well as sea salt in a few water can give fast relief of influenza. These types of mixtures needs to be boiled in approximately two quarts water till only half water remains just before they are taken. Water boiled along with Basil leaves could be taken like a tonic or even utilized like a gargle when you’ve got an aching throat.

Cold or Flu:

Basil seeds have anti spasmodic properties which help relieve cold and flu and thus they can be used as a remedy especially in children. Another benefit of Basil seeds is they offer rest from influenza, fever and cold. Since it has got antispasmodic effects, it will help treat whooping cough. They strengthen the immunity of the body. Flavonoids like vicenin, orientin, and beta carotene help to strengthen the body’s defence system. In reality, Basil is definitely the main ingredient in several expectorants and cough syrups.

A study reviewing the overall effects of Basil leaves, showed that they can help relieve the common cold or flu when consumed in tea form or chewed directly.

In the case of colds or rhinitis, take 50 g of dried Basil herb (or ½ cup of fresh raw material) pour 250 ml of 60% alcohol. Close tightly and leave for maceration for 14 days. After this time, filter and pour into a bottle. Drink up to 3 times a day, 2 teaspoons diluted with water or milk. Can be sweetened with honey.

Use as an antiseptic for rinsing the ears, mouth, throat and nasal cavity in colds, infections and inflammations, pour 50 g of Basil herb into 1 glass of saline (available at pharmacies). Set aside for 20 minutes and drain. Can be injected into the nasal cavity in the case of colds, allergies and sinusitis to reduce runny nose and open the nasal passages.

To calm sore throats, particularly, should the pain and soreness moved to the ears. Apply a couple of drops of Basil in your fingertips as well as rub in the affected area. Continue with the exact same steps together with the Lemon oil. In case you have sensitive skin you can include both of these oils to the carrier oil just like Olive oil, Coconut oil or Canola oil.

Cough:

Basil is one of the key ingredients in cough syrups and expectorants. But instead of buying those, you can make a home remedy that works just as well. Add eight Basil leaves and five Cloves to a cup of water and boil it for 10 minutes. You can add some salt for taste. Allow it to cool and then drink it to relieve coughing. For sore throat due to a cough, gargle with water boiled with Basil leaves. Various compounds in Basil help mobilize mucus, so it is also an effective treatment for other respiratory problems such as bronchitis and asthma. Basil leaves can also help relieve coughs by aiding the body in releasing mucus. No wonder it is a common ingredient in cough syrups.

Applied to the skin like a compress, Basil essential oil can easily reduce a number of the symptoms of sinus infection, bronchitis, asthma, and allergies. It’s refreshing aroma can easily break up blockage within the chest as well as sinuses, also it can also assist cure these types of respiratory infections. Basil oil is advantageous in managing respiratory symptoms when it’s utilized in diffusers as well as spread all through the air of the room or home.

A study, this time looking at the effects of Basil seeds, showed that they can aid in reducing coughing by relaxing the muscles.

Whooping Cough:

The clarifying fragrance of Basil essential oil helps you to open sinuses and lower the occurrence of coughing. Additionally, it features a antispasmodic nature, that is extremely effective for treating whooping cough.

Asthma:

Basil is a natural antihistamine. It can help reduce as well as prevent the severity of asthma attacks. Basil is also an excellent natural remedy for asthma. So next time you're feeling under the weather, go ahead and treat yourself to a warm cup of Basil tea.

Reverse Lung Damage:

Strong antioxidants like Basil can help with lung health and disease prevention. Basil is also excellent for removing foul breath because it helps to cleanse the lungs.

To assist clear congestion within the lungs and sinuses, include 2 or 3 drops of the oil in your hand as well as rub with each other. Cup the hands and put them over your nose as well as mouth. Breathe in seriously as well as breathe out gradually. You are able to notice the lungs start to clear quickly. Singers utilize Basil as well as Lemon oil to assist calm sore throats.

Fever:

The soluble fibre has a strong water holding capacity. During the scorching-heat, one can add Basil seeds to a refreshment drink to cool down the body temperature and prevent having a heatstroke. Basil oil is a known Ayurvedic remedy for treating fever, including viral and malarial fever. With its febrifuge, antibacterial, antifungal, insecticide and antimicrobial properties, Basil and its essential oil assists in reducing the body temperature even in cases of high fever. Basil leaves are useful for quenching fevers, particularly those associated with malaria along with other infectious, eruptive fevers typical to exotic areas.

Massaging your foot soles with 2 drops of Basil oil along with 2 drops of Coriander oil and 2 ml of Coconut oil can help in reducing fever significantly as all the nerves in body end up in foot soles and passing the therapeutic properties of these essential oils through the foot soles grants instant relief.

Boiling leaves with a few Cardamom in approximately two quarts of water, then combined with sugar and milk, lowers temperature. An extract of Basil leaves in freshwater needs to be provided every 2 to 3 hours, in between doses you are able to give sips of cold water. This process is particularly efficient for decreasing fevers in youngsters.

Neurological Health & Nerve Diseases:

Neuroprotective:

In a 2022 study "Neuroprotective effects of the fractions of Ocimum basilicum in seizures induced by pentylenetetrazole in mice" published in Avicenna Journal Phytomed, by Somaieh Mansouri, Mahmoud Hosseini, Fatemeh Alipour, Farimah Beheshti, Hassan Rakhshandeh, Abbas Mohammadipour, Akbar Anaeigoudari, Mohammad Jalili-Nik, Mohammad Reza Khazdair, Amirali Jahani, neuroprotective and antioxidant effects of Ocimum basilicum against pentylenetetrazole-induced seizures were investigated. Mice were divided as follows: (Group 1) Control, (Group 2) pentylenetetrazole, (Groups 3-5) 50,100 and 200 mg/kg hydro-ethanolic extract, and (Groups 6-8) 200 mg/kg ethyl-acetate, N-hexane and water fractions. Minimal clonic seizures and generalized tonic-clonic seizures latencies were measured. Biochemical and histological studies were done. Minimal clonic seizures and generalized tonic-clonic seizures latency in hydro-ethanolic groups were longer than the pentylenetetrazole group (p<0.05 to p<0.001). ethyl-acetate and N-hexane prolonged the onset of minimal clonic seizures and generalized tonic-clonic seizures (p<0.001). pentylenetetrazole increased malondialdehyde and dark neuron production while decreased thiol, catalase and superoxide dismutase (p<0.05 to p<0.001). Pre-treatment by hydro-ethanolic and all fractions of the plant attenuated malondialdehyde and dark neuron while increased thiol, catalase and superoxide dismutase (p<0.01 to p<0.001). ethyl-acetate and N-hexane had anticonvulsant properties. The extract and fractions protected the brain from pentylenetetrazole-induced oxidative damages and showed neuroprotective effects.

Increases Brain Functions:

The cognitive decline today is a common problem for the elderly. However, studies have been conducted to show Basil’s use in preventing cognitive degeneration is very useful. Basil contains minerals like manganese, which shows that the activity of the electronic transmitter increases in the brain. This activity is associated with mental reflexes. The plant also contains copper that can stimulate the mind, increasing its functionality.

To make a Basil infusion for facilitating concentration, take 2 teaspoons of basil herb pour 250 ml of boiling water, then cover and leave to infuse for 10-15 minutes. Filter and after cooling, drink one glass 2-3 times a day.

Brain Protection:

Glycosylglamin metabolism is also associated with brain reflux. Glycosylseramides are also known as Sphingolipids, which are essentially molecules that act as protective shields for the brain. This shield protects the brain from free radical and oxidative stress.

Sharpens Memory:

One of the best benefits of Basil is that it sharpens memory. Basil contains eugenol, a compound with anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. Eugenol also helps improve blood circulation to the brain, resulting in better cognitive function. Omega-3 fatty acids perfectly found on the Basil seed works well for enhancing and improving the memory level as well as brain power. So if you're looking for an herb that can help improve your mental clarity and memory, Basil is a great choice. Add it to your tea or food, or take it in supplement form to get the most benefit.

Improves Long Term Memory:

A 2022 study "Trimethoxyflavones from Ocimum basilicum L. leaves improve long term memory in mice by modulating multiple pathways" published in Journal Ethnopharmacol. by Varinder Singh, Kiranpreet Kaur, Sanimardeep Kaur, Richa Shri, Thakur Gurjeet Singh, Manjinder Singh, highlights the cognition improvement capacity of Ocimum basilicum L. leave extract Ocimum basilicum extract, however, the compound(s) responsible for this effect and the associated mechanism was not reported. The present study was, thus, designed to isolate and identify the compound responsible for memory improvement effects of Ocimum basilicum and to delineate the associated mechanism of action. Our findings show that trimethoxy flavones are responsible for the memory improvement effect of Ocimum basilicum extract due to their anticholinergic, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anti-apoptotic properties. These maybe developed as valuable alternatives for management of cognitive disorders.

Memory Retention and Retrieval:

A 2012 study "The effects of green Ocimum basilicum hydroalcoholic extract on retention and retrieval of memory in mice" published in Ancient Sci Life by Shadi Sarahroodi, Somayyeh Esmaeili, Peyman Mikaili, Zahra Hemmati, Yousof Saberi, evaluated a hydroalcoholic extract of green Ocimum basilicum on memory retention and retrieval in mice. Results showed increased memory retention and significantly increased memory retrieval. The memory enhancing effect was attributed to the antioxidant activity of flavonoids, tannins, and terpenoids.

Alzheimer's Disease:

Ocimum basilicum L. is mainly used to treat neurological diseases in China. The preliminary work of this group showed that Ocimum basilicum improves cognitive impairment in Alzheimer's disease. However, the underlying pharmacological mechanism remains unclear.

In a 2022 study "A Network Pharmacology-Based Study on the Mechanism of Dibutyl Phthalate of Ocimum basilicum L. against Alzheimer's Disease through the AKT/GSK-3 β Pathway" published in Biomed Res Int., by Jimilihan Simayi, Bayinsang, Maimaitiming Nuermaimaiti, Sendaer Hailati, Mengyuan Han, Zulihuma Reheman, Ainiwaer Wumaier, Wenting Zhou, the components of OBL were compiled by literature search, and their active ingredients were screened by online database. The drug targets of Ocimum basilicum in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease were predicted and analyzed using information derived from sources such as the SwissTargetPrediction tool. And through the network visual analysis function of Cytoscape software and protein-protein interaction analysis (PPI), the core targets of Ocimum basilicum treatment of Alzheimer's disease are predicted. Furthermore, Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes were employed to analyze the related signaling pathways affected by Ocimum basilicum. Moreover, AutoDock software was used to assess the potential binding affinity between the core targets and the active compounds. Subsequently, in vivo experiment was conducted to verify the findings of network pharmacology. A total of 35 active compounds and 188 targets of OBL were screened, of which 43 common targets were related to Alzheimer's disease. The active compounds of 35 Ocimum basilicum induced 118 Gene Ontology and 78 Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes. The results of PPI and network topology parameter analysis show that targets such as MAPK1, GSK3B, NR3C2, ESR1, and EGFR are known as the core targets for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease by Ocimum basilicum and are docked with the active ingredients of Ocimum basilicum. Molecular docking results suggest that diterbutyl phthalate may be the main active component of Ocimum basilicum for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. Flow cytometry analysis results showed that apoptosis decreased with increasing diterbutyl phthalate dose. In addition, diterbutyl phthalate significantly decreased the levels of lactate dehydrogenase and reactive oxygen species in the supernatant of Aβ 25-35-induced injury HT22 cell cultures, and it can be speculated that diterbutyl phthalate has the ability to protect the stability of injured neuronal cells and improve the permeability of cell membranes, thus stabilizing the intracellular environment. Mechanistically, diterbutyl phthalate may increase the mRNA levels of AKT, GSK-3β, etc. in Alzheimer's disease cell models and regulate the phosphorylation of AKT/GSK-3β pathway-related. Conclusively, our study suggests that diterbutyl phthalate, the main active component of Ocimum basilicum, has potential in the prevention or treatment of Alzheimer's disease.

Neurodegenerative Diseases:

A 2016 "Potential therapeutic phytochemicals from Ocimum basilicum for the prevention and management of neurodegenerative diseases" published at the 14th Meeting of the Asian-Pacific Society for Neurochemistry by Norazrina Azmi, Manali H Mohd-Zahid, Juriyati Jalil, Kok M Chan, Nor S Yaakob and Heng H Tee, evaluated the neuroprotective properties of Ocimum basilicum. Rosmarinic acid was quantified in crude hydroethanolic extracts of flower, leaf, and stem using HPTLC. The neuroprotective effects of phenolic-rich fractions of leaf was evaluated on H2O2-induced oxidative stress on SK-N-SH neuroblastoma cells. Pretreatment with EA fraction attenuated cell death induced by H2O2 more than the ethanol fraction and crude extract. Pretreatment with the leaf extract protected rats from scopolamine-induced memory impairment. Results suggest neuroprotective actions possibly associated with its antioxidant properties.

Mind and Nerves:

It encourages nerves as well as behaves as a neuro-tonic. Its extract has been observed to reduce spasmodic activity in the brain. Basil oil is known to unwind a confused mind and provide clearness of thought. Its effects on the brain may also be serious. Sympathetic nerves are activated as well as adrenal cortex is strengthened. It enhances cerebrospinal health too. You can use it like a treatment for difficulties just like paralysis and epilepsy, besides an array of psychological issues. The oil is recognized to reduce mental fatigue whenever combined with Black Pepper oil. Basil oil fortifies the mind. Studies conducted on animals show that the eugenol in Basil leaves is also beneficial for the nervous system.

Epilepsy:

A 2014 study "Antiepileptic activity of hydroalcoholic extract of Basil in mice" published in HerbMed Pharmacol. by Mehrdad Modaresi, Arezoo Pouriyanzadeh, Majid Asadi-Samani, evaluated the antiepileptic effect of Ocimum basilicum in pentylenetetrazole (PTZ) induced epilepsy model in mice. The hydroalcoholic extract at dose of 250 mg/kg dose showed dose-dependent antiepileptic activity.

Cerebral Malaria:

Cerebral malaria is the most severe neurological manifestation of severe malaria. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cerebral malaria is defined as a severe form of Plasmodium falciparum malaria that causes cerebral manifestations. Typically, patients with Cerebral malaria will experience a coma that persists for more than 30 minutes after a seizure occurs.

In 2018, there were approximately 228 million malaria cases worldwide, resulting in about 405,000 deaths. Survivors of Cerebral malaria may live with lifelong post-Cerebral malaria consequences apart from an increased risk of childhood neurodisability. EphA2 receptors have been linked to several neurological disorders and have a vital role in the Cerebral malaria-associated breakdown of the blood-brain barrier.

In a 2022 computational approach "Potential Epha2 Receptor Blockers Involved in Cerebral Malaria from Taraxacum officinale, Tinospora cordifolia, Rosmarinus officinalis and Ocimum basilicum" published in Pathogens, by Mohd Sayeed Shaikh, Fahadul Islam, Parag P Gargote, Rutuja R Gaikwad, Kalpana C Dhupe, Sharuk L Khan, Falak A Siddiqui, Ganesh G Tapadiya, Syed Sarfaraz Ali, Abhijit Dey, Talha Bin Emran, molecular docking studies of phytochemicals from Taraxacum officinale, Tinospora cordifolia, Rosmarinus officinalis, Ocimum basilicum, and the native ligand ephrin-A were conducted to identify the potential blockers of the EphA2 receptor. The software program Autodock Vina 1.1.2 in PyRx-Virtual Screening Tool and BIOVIA Discovery Studio visualizer was used for thismolecular docking study. The present work showed that blocking the EphA2 receptor by these phytochemicals prevents endothelial cell apoptosis by averting ephrin-A ligand-expressing CD8⁺ T cell bioadhesion. These phytochemicals showed excellent docking scores and binding affinity, demonstrating hydrogen bond, electrostatic, Pi-sigma, and pi alkyl hydrophobic binding interactions when compared with native ligands at the EphA2 receptor. The comparative molecular docking study using two PDB IDs showed that isocolumbin, carnosol, luteolin, and taraxasterol have better binding affinities (viz. -9.3, -9.0, -9.5, and -9.2 kcal/mol, respectively). Ocimum basilicum phytochemicals showed a lower docking score but more binding interactions than native ligands at the EphA2 receptor for both PDB IDs. This suggests that these phytochemicals may serve as potential drug candidates in the management of Cerebral malaria. We consider that the present molecular docking study provides leads in drug development by targeting the EphA2 receptor in managing Cerebral malaria. The approach is innovative because a role for EphA2 receptors in Cerebral malaria has never been highlighted.

Mental Health & Behavioural Conditions:

Stress:

Usage of Basil seeds comes with a uplifting effect on your mood and therefore is helpful for reducing stress, mental fatigue, nervous tension, melancholy, depression as well as migraine. Because of its soothing effect, it really is widely used for aromatherapy purposes, providing you with clarity as well as mental power.

Dilute 2–3 drops of Basil in one tablespoon of carrier oil. Massage into your temples and back of your neck to help stimulate clarity and focus. To Increase alertness and concentration, keep a small bottle of undiluted Basil Essential Oil. Inhale through each nostril as required. Include 2 cups of strong Basil leaf tea to the warm bath to reducing stress as well as help relaxation.

To reduce anxiety, depression, physical and mental exhaustion, tension and stress, make use of 2-3 drops Basil in the diffuser. May add 2-3 drops of oil to 1 oz of carrier oil as well as massage on body. For additional advantage, include Lavender and/or Peppermint on the combination.

Chronic Unpredictable Mild Stress:

A 2017 study "Can Ocimum basilicum relieve chronic unpredictable mild stress-induced depression in mice?" published in Exp Mol Pathol. by Nasra Naeim Ayuob, Alaa El-Din L Firgany, Ahmed A El-Mansy, Soad Ali, aimed to assess the ameliorative effect of Ocimum basilicum essential oil on the behavioral, biochemical and histopathological changes resulted from exposure to chronic unpredictable mild stress. It also aimed to investigate the underlying mechanism in an animal model of depression. 40 male Swiss albino mice were divided into four groups (n=10): control, chronic unpredictable mild stress (exposed to chronic unpredictable mild stress for 4 weeks), chronic unpredictable mild stress plus fluoxetine, and chronic unpredictable mild stress plus Ocimum basilicum. At the end of the experiment, behavioral changes, serum corticosterone level, protein and gene expressions of brain derived neurotropic factor and glucocorticoid receptors in the hippocampus was all assessed. Immunoexpression of surface makers of glial fibrillary acidic protein, Ki67, Caspase-3, brain derived neurotropic factor and GR in the hippocampus were estimated. Data were analyzed by using the statistical package for the social sciences. Ocimum basilicum alleviated both behavioral and biochemical changes recorded in mice after exposure to chronic unpredictable mild stress. It also reduced neuronal atrophy observed in the hippocampal region III cornu ammonis and dentate gyrus and restored back astrocyte number. Ocimum basilicum decreased apoptosis in both neurons and glial cells and increased neurogenesis in the dentate gyrus in a pattern comparable to that of fluoxetine. Increased brain derived neurotropic factor and glucocorticoid receptors gene and protein expressions seems to be behind the antidepressant-like effect of Ocimum basilicum. Ocimum basilicum ameliorates the changes induced after exposure to the chronic stress. Assessing Ocimum basilicum efficacy on human as antidepressant is recommended in further studies.

Another 2017 study "The antidepressant-like effect of Ocimum basilicum in an animal model of depression" published in Biotech Histochem by S S Ali, M G Abd El Wahab, N N Ayuob, M Suliaman, investigated the efficacy of Ocimum basilicum essential oils for treating depression related behavioral, biochemical and histopathological changes caused by exposure to chronic unpredictable mild stress in mice and to explore the mechanism underlying the pathology. Male albino mice were divided into four groups: controls; chronic unpredictable mild stress; chronic unpredictable mild stress plus fluoxetine, the antidepressant administered for pharmacological validation of Ocimum basilicum; and chronic unpredictable mild stress plus Ocimum basilicum. Behavioral tests included the forced swim test (FST), elevated plus-maze (EPM) and the open ﬁeld test (OFT); these tests were performed at the end of the experiment. We assessed serum corticosterone level, protein, gene and immunoexpression of brain-derived neurotropic factor (BDNF) and glucocorticoid receptors (GRs) as well as immunoexpression of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), Ki67, caspase-3 in the hippocampus. Chronic unpredictable mild stress caused depression in the mice as evidenced by prolonged immobility in the FST, prolonged time spent in the open arms during the EPM test and reduction of open field activity in the OFT. Ocimum basilicum ameliorated the chronic unpredictable mild stress induced depressive status. Ocimum basilicum significantly reduced the corticosterone level and up-regulated protein and gene expressions of BDNF and GR. Ocimum basilicum reduced chronic unpredictable mild stress induced hippocampal neuron atrophy and apoptosis, and increased the number of the astrocytes and new nerve cells. Ocimum basilicum significantly increased GFAP-positive cells as well as BDNF and GR immunoexpression in the hippocampus.

Anxiety:

A 2015 study "Comparative efficacy of Ocimum sanctum L. and Ocimum basilicum L. essential oils against amyloid beta (1–42)-induced anxiety and depression in laboratory rats" published in Phytochemistry Reviews, Vol. 14, Issue 4 by Veronica Gradinariu, Oana Cioanca, Lucian Hritcu, Adriana Trifan, Elvira Gille, Monica Hancianu, was analyzed the possible anxiolytic and antidepressant properties of inhaled Basil essential oil extracted from Ocimum sanctum and Ocimum basilicum in a ß-amyloid (1-42) rat model of Alzheimer's disease using in vivo (elevated plus maze and forced swimming) tests. Results showed the Basil essential oils, especially the Ocimum sanctum oil, have anxiolytic and antidepressant effects, and might have alternative or complementary potential in the prevention or treatment of conditions related to anxiety and depression.

Depression:

Basil is quite beneficial for mental disorders or mood-related illnesses, like depression and anxiety. Basil is also considered an antidepressant since it can certainly impact brain function within the adrenal cortex, assisting encourage neurotransmitters that regulate the hormones responsible for making happy and energetic.

Some studies, the authors report, produced results comparable to those of Diazepam and antidepressant drugs. However, confirming these findings will require more research. Also, consuming Basil is unlikely to have the same effect as receiving a dosage of an extract.

According to a 2014 review that looked at the role of Basil in Traditional Ayurvedic Medicine, the plant contains properties that may help alleviate stress, anxiety, and depression, increase the ability to think and reason, prevent age-related memory loss, improve stress-related sleep and sex issues.

To reduce stress, anxiety, depression, physical and mental exhaustion and tension, make use of 2-3 drops in the diffuser. May add 2-3 drops of oil to 1 ounce of carrier oil as well as massage on body.

Psychological Impacts of Social Isolation:

Behavioural and cognitive interventions remain credible approaches in addressing loneliness and depression. There was a need to rapidly generate and assimilate trial-based data during COVID-19.

In a 2022 Meta-Analysis pilot randomised controlled trial and living systematic review "Can we mitigate the psychological impacts of social isolation using behavioural activation? Long-term results of the UK Basil urgent public health COVID-19" published in Evid Based Ment Health., by Elizabeth Littlewood, Dean McMillan, Carolyn Chew Graham, Della Bailey, Samantha Gascoyne, Claire Sloane, Lauren Burke, Peter Coventry, Suzanne Crosland, Caroline Fairhurst, Andrew Henry, Catherine Hewitt, Kalpita Baird, Eloise Ryde, Leanne Shearsmith, Gemma Traviss-Turner, Rebecca Woodhouse, Judith Webster, Nick Meader, we undertook a parallel pilot RCT of behavioural activation (a brief behavioural intervention) for depression and loneliness (Behavioural Activation in Social Isolation, the Basil-C19 trial ISRCTN94091479). We also assimilate these data in a living systematic review (PROSPERO CRD42021298788) of cognitive and/or behavioural interventions. Rachel Churchill, Elizabeth Eddy, Paul Heron, Nisha Hicklin, Roz Shafran, Osvaldo Almeida, Andrew Clegg, Tom Gentry, Andrew Hill, Karina Lovell, Sarah Dexter-Smith, David Ekers, Simon Gilbody, Participants (≥65 years) with long-term conditions were computer randomised to behavioural activation (n=47) versus care as usual (n=49). Primary outcome was PHQ-9. Secondary outcomes included loneliness (De Jong Scale). Data from the Basil-C19 trial were included in a metanalysis of depression and loneliness. The 12 months adjusted mean difference for PHQ-9 was -0.70 (95% CI -2.61 to 1.20) and for loneliness was -0.39 (95% CI -1.43 to 0.65).The Bbasil-C19 living systematic review (12 trials) found short-term reductions in depression (standardised mean difference (SMD)=-0.31, 95% CI -0.51 to -0.11) and loneliness (SMD=-0.48, 95% CI -0.70 to -0.27). There were few long-term trials, but there was evidence of some benefit (loneliness SMD=-0.20, 95% CI -0.40 to -0.01; depression SMD=-0.20, 95% CI -0.47 to 0.07). We delivered a pilot trial of a behavioural intervention targeting loneliness and depression; achieving long-term follow-up. Living meta-analysis provides strong evidence of short-term benefit for loneliness and depression for cognitive and/or behavioural approaches. A fully powered Basil trial is underway. Scalable behavioural and cognitive approaches should be considered as population-level strategies for depression and loneliness on the basis of a living systematic review.

Natural Adaptogen:

Adaptogens are the most common part of herbal medicinal practice. They are usually responsible for maintaining a healthy balance of the body’s internal physical as well as chemical processes. Basil is one of the seven adaptogenic herbs that help in the lowering of stress, prevention of skin diseases, and prevention of hepatic disorders.

As an adaptogenic herb, the consumption of Basil leaves helps with the reduction of both stress and anxiety, thus by allowing the body to easily adapt under stressful conditions, this herb helps in boosting one’s mental health. But, apart from its benefits on one’s mindset, the consumption of Basil leaves also helps in the improvement of one’s physical stress, thus increasing endurance. As its oil has got moderate qualities of the adaptogen, it is extremely much beneficial in calming the nerves and therefore decreasing the mental fatigue as well as depression. Its fragrant qualities are traditionally used for calming as well as soothing our mood. This particular oil is additionally noted for bestowing psychological strength as well as clarity to the mind.

Studies show that Basil has strong potential to act as a natural adaptogen, an herbal medicine that helps the body adapt to stress and to normalize the harmful effects of stressors on bodily processes.

2 drops of Basil oil with 1 drop of Neroli oil and 1 drop of Clary Sage oil added to the burner, diffuser, aromatic candle or vaporizer during meditation or Pranayama can assist in treating anxiety, mood fluctuations, stress, fatigue, nervous weaknesses and stressful conditions. This also assists in enhancing memory power, concentration, sexual interest, self-confidence and spiritual oneness.

Spiritual Benefits:

Basil, being a sacred oil, is known for its power in uplifting the spirit and supporting improved spiritual bonding. This also helps in expanding in Ayurveda the heart Chakra, which is responsible for self-confidence, self-love, self-respect and love for others. Inhaling the curative aroma of this oil is said to generate a soothing effect on the intestines and stomach and alleviates spasms and cramps.

Reduces Addiction - Helping in Quitting Smoking:

Chain smokers can try chewing Basil leaves to get rid of their addiction. These can be more beneficial than nicotine patches, flavored gum or even plain candy to control the urge. While the juice has a cooling effect on your throat, the chewing will distract you and the antioxidants help to repair the damage caused due to years of smoking.

Sleep Disorders:

Hypnotic and Sleep-Prolonging Effect:

A 2016 study "Hypnotic Effect of Ocimum basilicum on Pentobarbital-Induced Sleep in Mice" published in Iran Red Crescent Med Journal by Askari VR, Baradaran Rahimi V, Ghorbani A, Rakhshandeh H, evaluated the sleep-prolonging effect of Ocimum basilicum. A hydroalcoholic extract increased the duration of pentobarbital-induced sleep and decreased sleep latency. The hypnotic effect was comparable to diazepam. LD50 of HAE was 2.4 g/kg with no effect on viability of neuronal PC12 cells and L929 fibroblast cells. Results showed potentiation of sleeping behaviors without any cytotoxicity.

To prepare Basil infusion for a good night's sleep, mix 50 g of Basil herb with 50 g of Lemon Balm, 25 g of Valerian and 25 g of Hops. Pour 1 tablespoon of the mixture into 1 cup of hot water. Infuse, covered, for 15 minutes. Drink approx. 1-2 hours before going to bed.

Skin & Hair Condition and Care:

Skin Care:

Basil essential oil is utilized topically as well as rubbed in the skin. It improves the shine of dull-looking skin. Therefore, it really is thoroughly utilized in numerous skincare supplements which claim to enhance the tone of the skin. Basil contains powerful and healing essential oils that cleanse your skin from deep inside. And, if you have oily skin, it is a savior for you. Besides cleansing, Basil also removes impurities, dirt, and grease that happen to clog your pores.

All you need to do is make a thick paste with a handful of Basil leaves, sandalwood powder, and rose water. Apply this pack on your face and neck, wait for 15 to 20 minutes, and wash it with cold water. Basil juice utilized straight to the affected area is wonderful for ringworm along with other typical skin ailments. Several naturopaths used it effectively within the management of leucoderma (patches of white or light-colored skin).

Skin Aging (Wrinkles):

It is known to be full of antioxidants. Free radical damage to the skin can be a great actor in looking and feeling aging. Antioxidants in the plant help reduce the effects of free radical cells and prevent oxidative stress in the body and mind.

According to research published in 2011, Sweet Basil has properties that might help protect the skin from some effects of aging. In the study, the scientists applied a Basil extract to laboratory models of skin. The results suggested that including Basil extracts in topical skin creams might improve skin hydration and reduce roughness and wrinkling. While extracts of Basil at certain doses may have this effect, consuming Basil will not necessarily benefit the skin. However, the antioxidants in Basil and other plant-based foods may have a protective effect if a person consumes them as part of a varied diet.

Skin Disorders:

The essential oil of Basil has antimicrobial, antifungal, antiseptic and antiviral properties that help in healing numerous skin disorders including acne and dermatitis. Additionally it is widely used to deal with the signs and symptoms of other skin ailment.

Basil seeds are crushed into oil to aid in dealing with infections like wounds, cuts, bladder infections, skin infections, etc. There isn’t any proof whatsoever that Basil seeds have got unwanted negative effects. However, you need to talk to your doctor prior to consume them, particularly if you are on medication.

Use 3 drops of Basil oil blended with 3 drops of Lavender oil and 3 ml of Coconut oil can be applied on acne, marks, ringworm, eczema, athletes’ foot, leucoderma, itches and insect bites for improved results.

Acne:

If you have an acne problem, the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties of Basil will also help you prevent it. Basil's essential oil helps cleanse the skin from within. Basil prevents acne outbreaks and also speeds up the healing process of acne lesions. The oil in fresh Basil leaves helps to clear bacteria from the skin that contributes to clogged pores, a major cause of acne. If you previously have acne, use Basil juice to the affected areas to destroy the bacteria. Basil can also be used to treat other skin problems like ringworm, psoriasis and insect bites. The anti-inflammatory properties in fresh Basil juice will decrease skin inflammation and provide relief. Apart from that it also can be used to make your skin soft, supple and healthy.

Basil oil also helps in clearing away skin blemishes and marks left behind by acne and wounds. Fresh juice extracted from Basil leaves mixed with honey is a traditional remedy for treating acne in Ayurveda.

Can be used externally as a face tonic for acne prone skin (also after diluting with water in a 1:3 ratio), to make a Basil tincture, take 50 g of dried Basil herb (or ½ cup of fresh raw material) pour 250 ml of 60% alcohol. Close tightly and leave for maceration for 14 days. After this time, filter and pour into a bottle.

Use a Basil vinegar as a hair rinse and externally to wash the skin in case of seborrhea, acne, and acne-prone skin, take 50 g of dried Basil (or half a cup of fresh herb) pour 300 ml of warm 10% food vinegar. Leave in a tightly closed container for 7 days. Filter after one week.

For washing acne and seborrheic skin, brushing herpes, lichen, ulcers and thrush, take 50 g of dried Basil herb (or ½ cup of fresh raw material) pour 300 ml of salicylic or pure food spirit. Close tightly and leave for maceration for 14 days. After this time, filter and pour into a bottle.

Hair Care:

There are multiple benefits of Basil leaves for hair. Basil leaves can add the much needed strength to hair and make them shiny and strong and will give fresh look. Dandruff has become a very common problem among masses. Usage of Basil oil on the scalp can reduce the dandruff. Application of Basil oil mixed with Coconut oil is the best remedy for dandruff. A healthy and hydrated scalp can be achieved with the regular consumption of the juice of Basil leaves. Basil leaves prevent itching in scalp and graying of hair. Basil oil is extremely great at dealing with dry, frizzy and damaged hair. It feeds the hair as well as encourages growth of hair and in addition helps prevent hair loss from happening. It can help improve the health of the hair and scalp, dry and itchy scalp conditions. Another benefit of Basil oil for hair is that it reduces hair fall. Basil promotes hair growth as it nourishes with vitamins A and C, flavonoids, and polyphenolic acids. Basil leaves prevent hair damage due to radiation. Some other benefits of Basil leaves for hair include: promote healthy hair and strengthens the shaft of hair, will give fresh look to your hair.

Slightly heat 5 drops of Basil oil with 5 drops of Rosemary oil, 3 drops of Ylang Ylang oil and 3 drops of Lemon oil along with 10 ml of Sesame oil and massage it soothingly on your scalp. Leave this blend to rest on your scalp for 30 minutes. Wash your hair with a mild shampoo blended with 1 drop of Basil oil and 1 drop of Lavender oil for treating dandruff, rough hair and split ends. This also aids in controlling hair fall and supports shiny, lustrous and thick hair.

Use Basil oil to care for the skin instead of a lotion, to lubricate the scalp in psoriasis and to strengthen the hair, as well as compresses for eczema and abscesses, take 50 g of dried Basil (or half a cup of fresh herb) 200 ml of warm olive oil; macerate in a jar for 14 days; filter.

Injuries:

Wounds:

Basil essential oil, utilized right on the skin, can easily reduce numerous skin conditions. The germ killings as well as anti-bacterial qualities of Basil essential oil turn it into a excellent solution for basic cuts along with other surface injuries. Basil can be applied straight to the wound a couple of drops at any given time, or even it may be diluted in the appropriate carrier oil as well as utilized like a bacteria-fighting compress.

A 2005 study "Synergistic Effects of Alcholic Extract of Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum L) Leaves and Honey on Cutaneous Wound Healing in Rats" published in International Journal of Molecules Medicine and Advanced Sciences, evaluated the wound healing effect of Ocimum basilicum leaves on incised wound of 10 Mus mulucus mice. Wounds treated with honey in combination with Ocimum basilicum alcoholic leaf extract and solcoseryl-jelly showed accelerated wound healing compared to honey alone.

For rinses and compresses for wounds, bedsores, chafes, ulcers, abscesses and burns, pour 200 ml of cool water over 1 tablespoon of Basil. Bring to a boil and simmer for 2-3 minutes. Set aside to infuse, covered for 20 minutes, filter. Consume 2-4 times a day for 200 ml.

To cleanse wounds, treat bedsores and frostbites or reduce pain and swelling associated with cuts or injuries of the joints, take 50 g of dried Basil (or half a cup of fresh herb) 200 ml of warm olive oil, macerate in a jar for 14 days, then filter.

Bone & Muscle Related Disorders:

Loss of bone density results in bone fragility and various bone damage and physical conditions. This is especially true for women because women’s osteoporosis is more common in men than men furthermore As the nutritional facts show Basil is a great source of vitamin K, it is very helpful in maintaining healthy bones. Vitamin K helps to absorb calcium.

For arthritis, muscle spasms or rheumatism, utilize 2-3 drops in a single ounce of carrier oil as well as massage affected areas. May also be included with a hot compress. For muscle aches, drop 2-3 drops of Basil essential oil in the bath water and have a bath. You can include a lot of our bath fizzes too.

Use externally for rubbing and massaging sore joints and limbs in the case of injuries, myalgia and rheumatism. take 50 g of dried Basil herb (or ½ cup of fresh raw material) pour 300 ml of salicylic or pure food spirit. Close tightly and leave for maceration for 14 days. After this time, filter and pour into a bottle.

Externally for rubbing Basil oil in rheumatism, arthritis and injuries take 50 g of dried Basil (or half a cup of fresh herb) 200 ml of warm olive oil; macerate in a jar for 14 days and filter.

It can be used for compresses on swollen joints (then the vinegar should be diluted in the proportion of 10 ml of basil vinegar to 2 glasses of water), take 50 g of dried Basil (or half a cup of fresh herb) pour 300 ml of warm 10% food vinegar. Leave in a tightly closed container for 7 days. After one week, filter.

Arthritis:

Arthritis is a painful condition that often leads to physical disability. It is also found that Basil contains beta-caryophyllene. This is associated with effective pain management. They also help with anti-inflammatory agents to relieve the burning sensation in your joints due to arthritis. Studies on rats showed that due to the use of Basil in their diet, they had no arthritis.

Improper blood circulation, stagnation of water deposits and amassing of toxic remains or ama (left due to indigestion) are the major causes for rheumatic conditions, arthritis and pain leading to stiff joints, inflammation, painful muscles, soreness, redness, irritation, fatigue and difficulties in performing routine tasks.

Mix a couple of drops of Basil essential oil with a appropriate carrier oil, apply it on sore muscles or even arthritic joints, and shortly the patient will certainly be pain and ache free.

Muscle Spasms and Aches:

Utilize 2-3 drops in a single oz of carrier oil as well as massage affected areas. May also be included with a hot compress. Drop 2-3 drops of Basil essential oil in the bath water and have a bath. You can include a lot of our bath fizzes too.

Pain & Inflammation:

Besides being antiseptic, Basil plant oil is pain killer, therefore it is a doubly great treatment for wounds. The pain-relieving qualities of Basil oil also work to ease pain related to arthritis, sore muscles, as well as burns. Basil essential oil is definitely an analgesic and offers rest from pain. That’s the reason this particular essential oil is usually utilized in the management of rheumatic conditions, arthritis, wounds, injuries, burns, bruises, scars, sports injuries, surgical recovery, sprains, inflammation, painful muscles, soreness, redness, irritation, fatigue and difficulties in performing routine tasks, as well as headaches.

2 drops of Basil oil blended with 2 drops of Eucalyptus oil and 2 drops of Bergamot oil in warm or cold compress aids in relieving joint pain, headache, muscular spasms, arthritis, stomach ache, rheumatic pain and migraine.

Headache:

Basil leaves are considered a wonderful medicine for headaches. Facial steam of dried Basil leaf is quite effective in lessening headache.

Add a tablespoon of dried Basil leaves to 2 cups of water in a large pot. Covering your head with a towel, carefully lean over the pot and breathe in the steam for 5 to 10 minutes. You can also apply pounded Basil leaves mixed in Sandalwood paste on your forehead to get relief from heat and headache as well as cooling effect in general.

Include a tablespoon of dried Basil leaf to 2 cups of boiling water in the huge pot. Very carefully lean within the pot, cover head using a towel as well as inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes till headache begins to diminish.

Reduces Inflammation:

Basil contains a wide array of natural products including anthocyanins and flavonoids as well as a wide range of essential oils rich in phenolic compounds. High quantities of (E)-beta-caryophyllene are contained in the herb; it may be useful in treating inflammatory bowel disease and arthritis.

Studies of Ocimum basilicum crude methanolic extracts exhibited anti-inflammatory activity as evidenced by the inhibition of the key pro-inflammatory cytokines and mediators. Basil and its strong anti-inflammatory properties can prove to be a cure to a variety of diseases and disorders. The powerful essential oils, including eugenol, citronellol and linalool, help lower inflammation through their enzyme inhibiting properties.

An International Journal of Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research study "Chemical Composition and Anti-inflammatory Activity of Essential Oils from the Leaves of Ocimum basilicum" by Festus B.C. Okoye, Wilfred O. Obonga, Felix A. Onyegbule, Okechukwu O. Ndu and Chibueze P. Ihekwereme, yielded 2 monoterpenes, 7 oxygenated monoterpene derivatives, 2 sesquiterpenes, a long chain monocarboxylic acid and a triterpene, alpha-amyrin. At 50 µg/ear OBV and Ocimum basilicum hexane extract exhibited significant (p<0.05) topical anti-inflammatory effect with edema inhibitions of 50.0 and 6%, respectively. When compared with hydrocortisone, OBV exhibited better anti-inflammatory effect.

A 2022 study "Metabolomic profile and computational analysis for the identification of the potential anti-inflammatory mechanisms of action of the traditional medicinal plants Ocimum basilicum and Ocimum tenuiflorum" published in Food Chem Toxicol. by Andrea Beltrán-Noboa, John Proaño-Ojeda, Mabel Guevara, Blanca Gallo, Luis A Berrueta, Francesca Giampieri, Yunierkis Perez-Castillo, Maurizio Battino, José M Álvarez-Suarez, Eduardo Tejera, Ocimum basilicum and Ocimum tenuiflorum are two Basil species widely used medicinally as an anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and cardioprotective agent. This study focuses on the chemical characterization of the majoritarian compounds of both species and their anti-inflammatory potential. Up to 22 compounds such as various types of salvianolic acids, derivatives of rosmaniric acid and flavones were identified in both plants. The identified compounds were very similar between both plants and are consistent with previous finding in other studies in Portugal and Italy. Based on the identified molecules a consensus target prediction was carried out. Among the main predicted target proteins, we found a high representation of the carbonic anhydrase family (CA2, CA7 and CA12) and several key proteins from the arachidonic pathway (LOX5, PLA2, COX1 and COX2). Both pathways are well related to inflammation. The interaction between the compounds and these targets were explored through molecular docking and molecular dynamics simulation. Our results suggest that some molecules present in both plants can induce an anti-inflammatory response through a non-steroidal mechanism of action connected to the carbon dioxide metabolism.

In 2017, researchers analyzed the anti-inflammatory properties of two preparations of Sweet Basil essential oil. According to their results, Basil oil may help treat various diseases that involve inflammation resulting from oxidative stress. It is not clear whether eating Basil, however, could have the same effect.

Another 2017 study "Evaluation of Basil extract ( Ocimum basilicum L.) on oxidative, anti-genotoxic and anti-inflammatory effects in human leukocytes cell cultures exposed to challenging agents" published in Braz. J. Pharm. Sci. by Camila Martins Güez, Raul Oliveira de Souza, Paula Fischer, Maria Fernanda de Moura Leão, Jonathaline Apollo Duarte, Aline Augusti Boligon, Margareth Linde Athayde, Luísa Zuravski, Luís Flávio Souza de Oliveira, Michel Mansur Machado, evaluated the genotoxic, oxidative, and anti-inflammatory parameters from various concentrations of extract of Ocimum basilicum extract. Results showed Ocimum basilicum act as an antioxidant and is rich in polyphenols and flavonoids, as well as rosmarinic acid, all with known antioxidant activity. Study also showed anti-inflammatory activity, probably through an interaction between the inhibition of pro-inflammatory mediator and stimulation of anti-inflammatory cytokines.

2015 study "The Effects of Ocimum basilicum Ethanol Extract on Carrageenan Induced Paw Inflammation in Rats" published in Pharmaceutical Sciences by Maryam Rameshrad, Ronak Salehian, Fatemeh Fathiazad, Sanaz Hamedeyazdan, Mehraveh Garjani, Nasrin Maleki-Dizaji, Reza Vosooghi, evaluated an ethanol extract of Ocimum basilicum for anti-inflammatory activity on carrageenan induced paw edema in male Wistar rats. Diminished paw inflammation was evidenced by reduction in paw thickness (p<0.001) and MPO activity (p<0.001). The significant decrease in inflammatory reaction induce by carrageenan could be due to its antioxidant effects.

"Study the analgesic and sedative effect of Ocimum basilicum alcoholic extract in male rats" published in Diyala Agricultural Sciences Journal, 2014, by Seab Emad Sahib Al-Ghurabi, evaluated the analgesic and sedative effect of different doses of alcoholic leaves extract of Ocimum basilicum in a male rat model. Results of formalin test showed a significant reduction in mean value of nociceptive response in both early and late phase. A dose of 100 mg/kg showed potent sedative effect in pentobarbitone sleeping time test and open field test.

Research published in 2012 that the anti-inflammatory properties of Basil may help lower risk of heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel conditions. Consumption of Basil could also soothe fever, headache, sore throat, cold, cough, flu. This study also mentions that the anti-inflammatory properties of Basil are well known. Because oxidative stress and inflammation are often present with serious illnesses like diabetes and heart disease, this research is promising for combating the increase in these health problems.

Gently massaging the painful and affected parts with this Ayurvedic massaging blend can be of great assistance in reducing inflammation, redness, irritation, pain and it also supports in promoting blood circulation in the painful areas. The therapeutic values of Basil oil along with other Ayurvedic oils in this massage blend promotes the frequency and quality of urination through which the toxic remains in the system are eliminated.

Acute and Chronic Inflammation:

Cyclodextrins are cyclic oligosaccharides can enhance the bioavailability of drugs. Ocimum basilicum is an aromatic plant found in Brazil used in culinary. The essential oil of this plant presents anti-edematogenic and anti-inflammatory activities in acute and chronic inflammation.

A 2017 study "Anti-inflammatory activity of the essential oil obtained from Ocimum basilicum complexed with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) in mice" published in Food Chem Toxicol. by Lindaiane Bezerra Rodrigues, Anita Oliveira Brito Pereira Bezerra Martins, Jaime Ribeiro-Filho, Francisco Rafael Alves Santana Cesário, Fyama Ferreira E Castro, Thaís Rodrigues de Albuquerque, Maria Neyze Martins Fernandes, Bruno Anderson Fernandes da Silva, Lucindo José Quintans Júnior, Adriano Antunes de Sousa Araújo, Paula Dos Passos Menezes, Paula Santos Nunes, Isabella Gonçalves Matos, Henrique Douglas Melo Coutinho, Almir Goncalves Wanderley, Irwin Rose Alencar de Menezes, was to investigate the anti-inflammatory effects of the essential oil obtained from Ocimum basilicum complexed with β-cyclodextrin (Ocimum basilicum essential oil/β-CD) in mice. The complexation with β-cyclodextrin (β-CD) was performed by different methods and analyzed by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetry (TG) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The anti-inflammatory activity was evaluated using mice models of paw edema induced by carrageenan, dextran, histamine and arachidonic acid (AA); vascular permeability and peritonitis induced by carrageenan and granuloma induced by cotton block introduction. The DSC, TG and SEM analysis indicated that the Ocimum basilicum essential oil was successfully complexed with β-CD. The oral administration of OEOB/β-CD prevented paw edema formation by decreasing vascular permeability in vivo, inhibited leukocyte recruitment to the peritoneal cavity, and inhibited granuloma formation in mice. Our results indicate that conjugation with β-CD improves the anti-inflammatory effects of Ocimum basilicum essential oil in mice models of acute and chronic inflammation, indicating that this complex can be used in anti-inflammatory drug development.

Ulcerative Colitis:

Ulcerative colitis is a chronic recurrent inflammatory disease of the large intestine and rectum that oxidative stress and severe inflammation are the main features of this disease. Previous studies have shown that separate consumption of Basil and gum arabic can reduce inflammation and oxidative stress.

A 2022 study "The effect of combining Basil seeds and gum Arabic on the healing process of experimental acetic acid-induced ulcerative colitis in rats" published in Journal Tradit Complement Med., by Mohammad Abbas Bejeshk, Amir Hashem Aminizadeh, Mohammad Amin Rajizadeh, Mohammad Khaksari, Mahdiyeh Lashkarizadeh, Nader Shahrokhi, Mohammad Javad Zahedi, Maryam Azimi, evaluating the effect of treatment with Basil seeds given together with gum arabic on healing, inflammation and oxidative stress in the course of experimental colitis in rats. A total number of 50 male rats were used, randomly assigned to five groups of 10 rats each. Colitis was induced in rats by enemas with 4% solution od acetic acid. Four days after induction of colitis, rats were treated for next 4 days with saline or combination of Basil seeds plus gum arabic (1 mg/kg) or sulfasalazine (100 mg/g) rectally. The experiment was terminated after last dose of treatment. Rats without induction of colitis were used as a sham group. Acetic acid-induced colitis increased the macroscopic and histopathological damage scores of the colon as well as colon levels of Malondialdehyde, Myeloperoxidase, Tissue necrosis factor α, Interleukin 6 and Interleukin 17 and decreased Superoxide Dismutase, Glutathione Peroxidase and Interleukin 10 levels compared with the control group (P < 0.001). Treatment with Basil and gum arabic reduced macroscopic and histopathological damage scores (P < 0.01) of the colon, Malondialdehyde, Myeloperoxidase, Tissue necrosis factor α, Interleukin 6 (P < 0.001) and Interleukin 17 (P < 0.01) levels of the colon and increased Superoxide Dismutase, Glutathione Peroxidase and Interleukin 10 levels compared to the colitis group (P < 0.01). Rectal administration of combination of Basil seeds plus gum arabic after induction of colitis, exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, and accelerates the healing of the colon in experimental colitis evoked by acetic acid.

Women's Health Issues:

Menopause:

One of the complications of menopause is sleep disorders, which affect women's health. Ocimum basilicum contains compounds that may affect sleep.

A 2023 randomized clinical trial "The effect of oral capsule of Ocimum basilicum leaf extract on sleep quality and insomnia severity in menopausal women" published in Phytother Res., by Fatemeh Zahra Karimi, Hamideh Hosseini, Seyad Reza Mazlom, Hassan Rakhshandeh, Hadi Asadpour, determine the effect of an oral capsule of Ocimum basilicum leaf extract on sleep quality and the severity of insomnia in menopausal women. This triple-blind, randomized clinical trial study was performed on 60 Iranian menopausal women aged 40 to 65 years. Subjects were randomly assigned into two groups of intervention (each capsule containing 250 mg of Ocimum basilicum extract and 250 mg Avicel) per day for 1 month and placebo. The Pittsburgh Sleep Quality and Insomnia Intensity Index were used to assess sleep quality and severity of insomnia before, 2 weeks after and 1 month after the intervention. There was no statistically significant difference in the baseline variables between the intervention and placebo groups (p > .05). The total sleep quality scores in the two groups of intervention and placebo were 6.2 ± 0.3 versus 9.3 ± 0.3 (p < .001) and 3.7 ± 0.3 versus 9.1 ± 0.3 (p = .015) 2 weeks and 1 month after the intervention, respectively. The total insomnia severity scores in the two groups of intervention and placebo were 9.0 ± 0.3 versus 12.1 ± 0.3 (p < .001) and 5.6 ± 0.5 versus 11.0 ± 0.5 (p < .001) 2 weeks and 1 month after the intervention, respectively. Consumption of Ocimum basilicum capsules improved sleep quality and insomnia in menopausal women. This study was approved (code IR. MUMS. NURSE. REC. 1398.070) by the Ethic committee of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences and registered at the Iranian Registry of Clinical Trials, with the No. IRCT20200104046001N1 in January 2020.

Sexual Health:

Natural Aphrodisiac:

Basil is considered a symbol of love for centuries in Italy. The fragrance of Basil is supposed to increase libido and arousal, perhaps by increasing blood flow as well as energy levels, while reducing inflammation. In the Hindu religion and in Ayurveda practices, Basil is considered the “elixir of life” and is used to encourage healthy sexual function and an upbeat mood. Sweet Basil is used to communicate good wishes, or best wishes, as well as to indicate that one has serious intentions in a love relationship.

Additionally, when a woman places a pot of Basil on her windowsill, it means she is ready to receive her suitor. Basil is a sacred herb in witchcraft and pagan rituals, so it has many properties and magical uses. Its magical powers include love, exorcism, wealth, flying, and protection. The primary power Basil has in ritual is toward love. Its scent is said to cause sympathy between two people and to soothe tempers between lovers. It is added to love incenses and sachets, and the fresh leaves can be rubbed against the skin as a kind of natural love perfume. It was once thought that a young man would love any woman from whom he accepted a sprig of Basil. Likewise, it was said that if a man gave a woman a sprig, she would fall in love with him and never leave. Basil can be used in love divination. To determine the success of a marriage or relationship, place two Basil leaves, representing the two parties to the marriage, on a live coal. If the leaves lie where you put them and burn quickly to ashes, the marriage or relationship will be harmonious. If there is a certain amount of crackling, the life of the pair will be disturbed by quarrels. If the leaves fly apart with fierce crackling, the relationship or marriage will be equally as noisy and combustible, and therefore deemed undesirable. To determine if someone is chaste or promiscuous, lay a sprig of fresh Basil in their hand. It will immediately wither if that person is "light of love", or prone to promiscuity. If it remains fresh for a little while, then you can safely assume your mate will remain true to you. To ensure your lover stays true, sprinkle Basil powder over your body thoroughly while your lover sleeps, especially over your heart. This will bless your relationship with fidelity.

Physical Health:

Increases Energy:

Basil includes copper, which is a vital producer of adenosine triphosphate. This is a combination that helps eliminate the effects of fatigue. It is often recommended to use Basil in juices to keep the energy level high furthermore Basil leave is used in Traditional Tamil and Ayurvedic Medicine, which is a form of traditional medicine popular on the Indian subcontinent.

For nerve tonic and fight fatigue, include a couple of fresh Basil in the big pitcher of water along with slices of 1 Orange. Refrigerate and drink during the day.

Fight Fatigue:

In the big pitcher of water include a couple of fresh Basil along with slices of 1 Orange. Refrigerate and drink during the day.

Kidney Disorders:

Kidney Stones:

Basil has a strengthening effect on kidney functioning. Basil essential oil has detoxifying, diuretic, antioxidant and analgesic properties that help in discarding toxic remains from the system by promoting frequent urination. This also aids in reducing the level of uric acid and salt deposits, which may otherwise lead to the formation of kidney stones.

To improve overall kidney functioning, consume five to six fresh Basil leaves with water on an empty stomach. If you have kidney stones, mix newly extracted Basil juice with an equal amount of honey. Drink it every day without fail for about five to six months. This will facilitate elimination of kidney stones through the urinary tract.

In cases of stones within your kidney, the juice of Basil leaves combined with honey and brought every day for 6 months will certainly discharge them from the urinary system.

Liver Disorders:

Basil is a wonder herb for your liver, one of the most vital organs of your body. Liver is a very essential organ for the body as it plays a crucial role in metabolism. Basil may help prevent fat build-up in the liver and keep your liver healthy. Basil benefits your liver while taking care of your overall health, too.

A 2015 study published in The Journal of Medicinal Food found that when sickly rats were given Basil extract over a period of five days, they experienced significant improvements in producing detoxifying enzymes, higher antioxidant defenses and a reduction of fat buildup in the liver that can cause liver disease.

Liver Protection (Hepatoprotective):

A 2010 study "Aqueous and ethanolic leaf extracts of Ocimum basilicum (sweet basil) protect against sodium arsenite-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats" published in Nigerian Journal Physio. Sci. by Gbadegesin M.A and Odunola O.A, evaluated the effects of aqueous and ethanolic leaf extracts of Ocimum basilicum on sodium arsenite-induced hepatotoxicity in Wistar rats. Results showed significant (p<0.05) reduction of mean liver and serum y-glutamyl transferase and ALP activities. Treatment before administration of sodium arsenite resulted in attenuation of ALT and AST activities. The hepatoprotective effects of Ocimum basilicum may be linked to their antioxidant activities.

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD):

Basil seed produces enzymes which help to detoxify and have high antioxidant defences. This leads to the decrease of fat build up inside the liver. Fat build up of the liver can cause non alcoholic fatty liver disease and it can be very detrimental for health. Therefore, Basil leaves helps to prevent this disease and keeps one healthy and safe from such ailments.

Tumors & Cancers:

Basil oil has demonstrated anti-cancer qualities whenever examined in labs. It does this by increasing the antioxidant activity, altering the gene expressions, inducing cancer cell death, and inhibiting blood vessel development in the cell. The antioxidants on Basil assist in combating free-radicals that are accountable for leading to cancer. Even though it are not able to heal cancer, including the herb or even oil in cooking and consumption in other forms can avoid occurrence of cancer as much as a huge amount.

Researchers found that Basil plant has the power to prevent cancer from its root. This is due to the fact that it contains phytochemicals that help to prevent lung, oral, liver and skin cancer and published it in Nutrition and Cancer.

In a 2023 in vitro evaluation "Evaluation of the Anticancer Potential of Morus nigra and Ocimum basilicum Mixture against Different Cancer Cell Lines" published in Biomed Res In., by Bader O Almutairi, Ahmed I Alsayadi, Nael Abutaha, Fahd A Al-Mekhlafi, Mohamed A Wadaan, Morus nigra (M) and Ocimum basilicum (O) mixture (MO2) extract was extracted using hexane (MO2H), chloroform (MO2C), ethyl acetate (MO2E), and methanol (MO2M) in a Soxhlet apparatus. The cytotoxicity was evaluated using MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) assay. The IC50 values of the MO2C-treated cancer cells were 11.31 μg/mL (MDA-MB-231), 15.45 μg/mL (MCF-7), 18.9 μg/mL (HepG2), 26.33 μg/mL (Huh-7), 30.17 μg/mL (LoVo), and 36.76 μg/mL (HCT116). MO2C-treated cells showed cellular and nuclear morphological alterations like chromatin condensation and formation of apoptotic bodies as observed using light and fluorescent microscopy. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties were investigated in vitro using 2,2'-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) and egg albumin denaturation assays. It was evident that the MO2M extract exhibited the highest antioxidant activity (18.13%), followed by the MO2E extract (12.25%), MO2C extract (9.380%), and MO2H extract (6.31%). The highest inhibition percentage of albumin denaturation was observed in MO2H (28.54%), followed by MO2M (4.32%) at 0.2 and 0.1 mg/mL concentrations, respectively. The compounds identified using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) analysis for MO2C extract were α-trans-bergamotene, germacrene D, selin-4,7(11)-diene, 2 tridecen-1-ol, and 2-decen-1-ol. The present study reveals that MO2C has promising anticancer activity and may serve as a potent polyherbal extract in cancer treatment.

A review published in 2013 looked at whether Basil and Holy Basil, could prevent cancer. The authors concluded that the phytochemicals in Basil may help prevent certain types of skin, liver, oral, and lung cancers. They appeared to do this by increasing antioxidant activity, changing gene expression, triggering cell death, and slowing cell division. However, the studies in this review were preclinical or performed in animals. Confirming the effects will require further research.

A 2009 study on the antiproliferative activity of essential oil from 17 Thai medicinal plants on human mouth epidermal carcinoma (KB) and murine leukemia (P388) cell lines "Anti-proliferative activity of essential oil extracted from Thai medicinal plants on KB and P388 cell lines" published in Cancer Letters, Vol. 235, Issue 1 and Journal of Food Science and Technology by J. Manosroi, P. Dhumtanom, A. Manosroi, in the KB cell line, Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum) oil showed the highest anti-proliferative activity in the P388 cell line. The results suggested the potential of Thai medicinal plants for cancer treatment.

Chemotherapy and Radiation Therapy:

Basil can induce cancer cell apoptosis successfully and stop the cancer cells from spreading throughout the body. This is due to the increase of antioxidant activity which can alter gene expressions. During chemotherapy or radiation therapy, one can keep consuming Basil leaves and seeds as a supplemental cancer cure. It is also known to relieve discomfort after chemotherapy in most cases.

In studies using animals, Basil extract has shown protection against cancer and mortality while also selectively protecting normal tissue and cells from negative effects of cancer treatments like radiation or chemotherapy. This means that using Basil extract can be beneficial as a supplemental cancer treatment even when someone is already undergoing traditional forms of treatments.

Human Cancer Cell Lines (Cytotoxicity):

A 2016 study "Evaluation of in vitro Cytotoxic Activity of Ocimum basilicum and Mentha spicata Extracts" published in Asian Journal of Pharmaceutical and Clinical Research by Sreenivasan Sasidharan, Jegathambigai Rameshwar Naidu, Manish Gunjan, evaluated the cytotoxicity of Ocimum basilicum against human cancer HL60 cell lines using 3 - [4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl] - 2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide assay. Results showed inhibition of proliferation of HL60s cells in a concentration dependent manner with IC50 of 45.67 µg/ml.

Breast Cancer:

Breast cancer is one of the leading types of cancer found in women. One of the causes reported for breast cancer is improper regulation of epigenetic modifications. Various epigenetic targets such as histone deacetylases and histone acetyltransferases regulate many types of cancer, including breast cancer. Basil is known to possess anti-cancer properties; however, the role of its polysaccharides against different epigenetic targets is still not very clear. Therefore, the molecular docking method is used to find out the binding potential of the BPSs against different epigenetic targets responsible for breast cancer.

A 2022 study "Target-based in-silico screening of Basil polysaccharides against different epigenetic targets responsible for breast cancer" published in Journal Recept Signal Transduct Res., by Nancy Bhura, Pawan Gupta, Jeena Gupta, screened against the diverse epigenetic targets reported for breast cancer (histone deacetylases 1-2, 4-8, and histone acetyltransferases) using molecular docking studies alongwith swissADME studies to check the drug likeliness of the BPSs. It was found that glucosamine ring, glucosamine linear, glucuronic acid linear, rhamnose linear, glucuronic acid ring, galactose ring, mannose, glucose, and xylose were exhibited consistent binding potential against the epigenetic targets (histone deacetylases 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, and histone acetyltransferases) responsible for breast cancer. This is the first report where BPSs were reported against these epigenetic targets. These studies can help to understand the underlying mechanism of BPSs used against epigenetic targets for breast cancer. These results can be further validated experimentally to confirm their potential as a promising inhibitor against the epigenetic targets (histone deacetylases 1-2, 4-8, and histone acetyltransferases) having a role in breast cancer.

Leukemia:

Leukemia, one of the major cancers, affects a large proportion of people around the world. Better treatment options for leukemia are required due to a large number of side effects associated with current therapeutic regimens. In the present study, we sought to determine the pathway of triggering apoptosis of leukemic cells by Ocimum basilicum plant extract.

A 2019 study "Apoptosis of Leukemia Cells by Ocimum basilicum Fractions Following TNF alpha Induced Activation of JNK and Caspase 3" published in Curr Pharm Des. by Touseef Rehan, David MacEwan, Nasrullah Shah, Tabassum Rehan, Riffat Tahira, Sheeba Murad, Mariam Anees, Iram Murtaza, Muhammad Farman, Obaid-Ur-Rahman Abid, Aneesa Sultan, methanolic extract of the Ocimum basilicum plant material was prepared. The crude extract was fractionated into several fractions through column chromatography using ethyl acetate and n-hexane as eluting solvents. Cell viability of leukemic cells was assessed via Cell titer GLO assay and apoptosis was measured through Annexin V/PI staining. Two apoptotic molecules JNK and caspases were analyzed through western blotting while pro-inflammatory cytokines TNFα, CCL2 and CXCL8 using qPCR. Fractions were characterized through LC-MS. The most potent with lowest IC50 values among the fractions were BF2 (2:8 n-hexane:ethyl acetate) and BF3 (3:7 n-hexane:ethyl acetate). Cytotoxicity was associated with apoptosis. Apoptosis was found caspasedependent and P-JNK activation was detected sustained. A significant increase in the level of TNF α and a decrease in the level of CXCL8 were observed in BF2 and BF3 treated cells. The fractions of Ocimum basilicum extract were found to kill cells following JNK pathway activation. Excellent results were obtained with BF2 and BF3 probably due to predominant Epicatechin and Cinnamic acid derivatives in these fractions.

Diabetes Mellitus:

Just like Clove oil, Basil oil is also a rich source of eugenol, caryophyllene and methyl eugenol. The high level of antioxidants along with these chemical constituents helps in supporting the proper functions of the pancreatic beta cells. These cells are responsible for storing and releasing of insulin in the system.

A 2002 study on “Extract of Ocimum canum lowers blood glucose and facilitates insulin release by isolated pancreatic beta-islet cells” published in Memorial Institute for Medical Research, University of Ghana by Nyarko AK, Asare-Anane H, Ofosuhene M, Addy ME, Noguchi, evaluated the use of the aqueous extract of Basil in The Traditional Ghanaian Medicine for treating diabetes mellitus. This study concluded that the use of Ocimum basilikum extracts on animal models “inhibited insulin secretion by the pancreatic beta-islet cells and fasting blood glucose levels and body weight decreased significantly".

Blood Sugar:

Consumption of Basil could result in slow release of sugar in the blood, which is very essential for diabetics. The herb has very low glycemic load. The essential oil present in Basil also helps cut down triglyceride and cholesterol levels, which is a persistent risk factor amongst diabetics. Some practitioners of traditional medicine commonly recommend Basil to help manage blood sugar levels.

A 2019 study in rats found that an extract of sweet Basil leaves helped reduce high blood sugar levels. The results also suggested that Basil leaves may help treat long-term effects of high blood sugar. If further investigations confirm these findings, Basil extracts could prove useful for people with diabetes.

In a 2014 study published in Journal Chem. Pharm. Res. by F. N. Mbaoji, C. O. Okoli and A. C. Ezike, was evaluated the antihyperglycemic effect of methanol-dichlormethane leaf extract of Ocimum basilicum in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Results showed extracts and fractions caused a significant (p<0.05) reduction in blood glucose of alloxan diabetic rats. In normal rats, the extract did not reduce blood glucose level but suppressed postprandial blood glucose. Phytochemical screening of extract and fractions yielded carbohydrate, glycosides, reducing sugars, resins, saponins, steroids, and terpenoids.

Massaging your system with this medicated blend will be a great aid in increasing the sensitivity to insulin and can help in controlling the level of blood sugar and insulin.

Hypoglycemia:

A 2014 study "Preliminary antihyperglycemic activity-guided studies on the leaf extract and fractions of Ocimum basilicum L" publoished in Journal Chem. Pharm. Res. by F. N. Mbaoji , C. O. Okoli and A. C. Ezike, evaluated the antihyperglycemic effect of methanol-dichlormethane leaf extract of Ocimum basilicum in alloxan induced diabetic rats. Results showed extracts and fractions caused a significant (p<0.05) reduction in blood glucose of alloxan diabetic rats. In normal rats, the extract did not reduce blood glucose level but suppressed postprandial blood glucose. Phytochemical screening of extract and fractions yielded carbohydrate, glycosides, reducing sugars, resins, saponins, steroids, and terpenoids.

Another 2011 in vitro study "Hypoglycemic effect of Basil (Ocimum basilicum) aqueous extract is mediated through inhibition of α-glucosidase and α-amylase activities" published in Toxicology and Industrial Health by HA El-Beshbishy, SA Bahashwan, investigated the in vitro hypoglycemic activity of Ocimum basilicum aqueous extract. Phytochemical screening yielded reducing sugars, cardiac glycosides, tannins, saponins, glycosides, flavonoids, and steroids. Results showed antidiabetic effect through antioxidant and possibly α-glucosidase and α-amylase inhibiting activities.

Alleviates Blood Glucose (Gestational Diabetes):

Gestational diabetes complications affect maternal and fetus in utero. Gestational diabete's vascular dysfunction showed inducible nitric oxide synthase alteration and was linked to the higher production of nitrogen species, leading to diabetic embryopathy. Ocimum basilicum has been reported for its anti-inflammatory and anti-diabetic effects.

A 2022 study "Ocimum basilicum alleviates blood glucose, lipid profile and inducible nitric oxide synthase in diabetes gestational rat model" published in Journal Complement Integr Med., by Hirowati Ali, Hasmiwati, Rosfita Rasyid, Dian Handayani, Endrinaldi, Elly Usman, Vauline Basyir, Eti Yerizel, Eva Decroli, investigates the anti-diabetic effect, lipid-lowering effect, and inducible nitric oxide synthase expression in gestational diabetes animal models treated with Ocimum basilicum extract. Four groups of pregnant rats consist of control and gestational diabetes groups. One gestational diabetes group was set for control positive. Two gestational diabetes groups were treated with Ocimum basilicum extract in two doses (100 and 200 mg/kg BW) for 14 days. Blood glucose of all groups was observed at 72 h after STZ injection and 14 days after administration of Ocimum basilicum extract. Lipid profile and inducible nitric oxide synthase expression using real-time PCR were measured afterward. Ocimum basilicum extract lowered blood glucose levels in both doses, from 262.60 mg/dL±6.89-136.80 mg/dL ± 15.6 mg/dL and 113.20 mg/dL±5.25 mg/dL. Total cholesterol, LDL and triglyceride showed a reduction, especially in 200 mg/kg BW dose extract from 122.37 mg/dL ± 14.84 mg/dL, 69.75 mg/dL±3.78 mg/dL and 137.51 mg/dL ± 8.12-74.64 mg/dL±8.71 mg/dL, 40.26 mg/dL±3.31 mg/dL and 87.57 mg/dL±6.29 mg/dL, respectively. inducible nitric oxide synthase expression downregulated in both doses, from 2.17±0.39 to 0.94±0.3 and 0.41±0.08. This study showed that Ocimum basilicum extract has a potential therapeutic activity in lowering blood glucose, improved lipid profile, and downregulating inducible nitric oxide synthase in gestational diabetes.

Endocrine Diseases:

Weight Loss:

This super seed is rich in omega-3 fats and fibre. The main omega-3 fats present are the alpha-linolenic acids, which can help in boosting the fat metabolism and the fibre present in it keeps the stomach full for a long duration of time, which helps in weight loss.

Oral Diseases:

Bad Breath (Halitosis):

Basil leaves could be chewed to avoid bad odor and is also recognized to reduce toothache as well as gum swelling. It limits germs build-up within the mouth and could be utilized like a mouth freshener.

Gum Diseases:

Basil leaves are quite beneficial for treating gum disorders. Basil leaves dried and powdered can be used for brushing teeth. It can also be mixed with Mustard oil and can be used as toothpaste. It helps to maintain the health of the gums and helps to stabilize pyorrhea as well as other dental problems. This toothpaste can also be rubbed on the gums to prevent gum inflammation.

Gnawing a couple of leaves two times a day cure infections as well as ulcerations of the mouth.

Common Eye Disorders & Diseases (CDC):

Improves Eyesight:

It contains beta-carotene. It is an essential combination that helps prevent stargardt disease. Basil juice is an effective remedy for sore eyes and night blindness, which is normally caused by lack of Vitamin A. Apart from that Basil leaves act as relaxants for eyes to sooth stress induced fine lines. It really is ophthalmic and may rapidly reduce bloodshot eyes.

2 drops of Basil juice can work wonders for the eyes. It calms eyes and reduces stress. Also, it can protect from conjunctivitis, boils and other problems of the eyes which are caused mostly due to bacterial and fungal infections by washing eyes with water soaked in Basil leaves.

Chewing a couple of Basil leaves helps to ward off eye problems caused by free radicals such as vision degeneration, cataracts and glaucoma.

Antioxidants:

A 2023 study "Essential Oils from Apiaceae, Asteraceae, Cupressaceae and Lamiaceae Families Grown in Serbia: Comparative Chemical Profiling with In Vitro Antioxidant Activity" published in Plants (Basel), by Nevena Gladikostić, Bojana Ikonić, Nemanja Teslić, Zoran Zeković, Danica Božović, Predrag Putnik, Danijela Bursać Kovačević, Branimir Pavlić, investigate the chemical profile and antioxidant activity of essential oils obtained from the most commonly grown plant species in Serbia. Aromatic and medicinal plants from Lamiaceae (Mentha x Piperita, Ocimum basilicum, Origanum majorana, Origanum vulgare, Salvia officinalis, Satureja hortensis, Satureja montana and Thymus vulgaris), Asteraceae (Ehinacea purpurea and Matricaria chamomilla), Apiaceae (Anethum graveolens, Carum carvi, Foeniculum vulgare, Petroselinum crispum and Pimpinella anisum) and Cupressaceae (Juniperus comunis) were selected as raw material for essential oils (EOs)' isolation. Hydrodistillation (HD) was used for the isolation of EOs while they were evaluated in terms of yield and terpenoid profiles by GC-MS. In vitro radical scavenging DPPH and ABTS⁺ radical activities were carried out for all EOs. Finally, a principal component analysis (PCA) was performed with the experimental results of the composition and antioxidant activity of the EOs, which showed a clear distinction between the selected plant species for the aforementioned responses. This work represents a screening tool for the selection of other EO candidates for further processing by emerging extraction techniques and the use of EOs as natural additives for meat products.

Hydroponics is one of the systems in agriculture which reinforce productivity by controlling environmental and growing conditions.

In a 2022 study "Effect of biofertilizers on leaf yield, nitrate amount, mineral content and antioxidants of Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.) in a floating culture" published in Sci Rep., by Hayriye Yildiz Dasgan, Abdullah Aldiyab, Farah Elgudayem, Boran Ikiz, Nazim S Gruda, we evaluated the effect of three bio-fertilizers, namely bacteria, micro-algae, and mycorrhiza, on Basil leaf yield and quality (Ocimum basilicum L.) in a floating culture system. Soil has rich amounts of beneficial microorganisms, supporting plant nutrition, producing phytohormones, controlling phytopathogens, and improving soil structure. However, soilless culture usually contains no beneficial microorganisms if we do not include them in the system. This study aims to evaluate the response of three bio-fertilizers where mineral fertilizers are reduced by 50%. Considering the total harvest data, bacteria, mycorrhiza, and micro-algae treatments increased Basil yield compared to 50% control by about 18.94%, 13.94%, and 5.72%, respectively. The maximum total yield and leaf area were recorded using bacteria with 2744 g m-2 and 1528 cm2 plant-1. Plants with mycorrhiza achieved the highest number of leaves and branches, with 94.3 leaves plant-1 and 24.50 branches plant-1, respectively. It was observed that this bio-fertilizer increased the formation of lateral branches in the Basil plant without thickening its stems. In addition, bacteria and mycorrhiza induced the highest percentage of dry matter and total soluble solids. The effect of bio-fertilizers on Basil leaf EC and pH was insignificant for all the treatments at different harvest periods (p < 0.05). Using bio-fertilizers enhanced the intake of nutrients N (nitrogen), P (phosphorus), K (potassium), Ca (calcium), Mg (magnesium), Fe (iron), Mn (manganese), Zn (zinc), and Cu (copper). Using bio-fertilizers represents a promising and environmentally friendly approach to increasing crop yields and ameliorating quality and antioxidant compounds with fewer resources. An application of bio-fertilizers in hydroponic cultivation of Basil cv. 'Dino' reduced the need for mineral fertilizers. At the same time, bio-fertilizers affected an increased plant yield and improved product quality. Furthermore, the bacteria had a pronounced enhancing effect on the increase of phenol and flavonoids in the leaves of Basil plants.

A 2020 review "Bioactive Natural Compounds and Antioxidant Activity of Essential Oils from Spice Plants: New Findings and Potential Applications" published in Biomolecules by Lidiane Diniz do Nascimento, Angelo Antônio Barbosa de Moraes, Kauê Santana da Costa, João Marcos Pereira Galúcio, Paulo Sérgio Taube, Cristiane Maria Leal Costa, Jorddy Neves Cruz, Eloisa Helena de Aguiar Andrade, Lênio José Guerreiro de Faria, using recent studies, we exhibit a general overview of the main aspects related to the importance of spice plants widely used in traditional medicine: Cinnamomumzeylanicum (True Cinnamon), Menthapiperita (Peppermint), Ocimumbasilicum (Basil), Origanumvulgare (oregano), Piper nigrum (Black Pepper), Rosmarinus officinalis (Rosemary), and Thymus vulgaris (Thyme) and we discuss new findings of the bioactive compounds obtained from their essential oils, their potential applications, as well as their molecular mechanisms of action, focusing on their antioxidant activity. We also exhibit the main in vitro methods applied to determine the antioxidant activities of these natural products.

A 2011 study "Antioxidant capacity of Ocimum basilicum L. and Origanum vulgare L. extracts" published in Molecules by Biljana Kaurinovic, Mira Popovic, Sanja Vlaisavljevic, Svetlana Trivic, where the antioxidant properties of five different extracts (Et₂O, CHCl₃, EtOAc, n-BuOH, and H₂O) of Ocimum basilicum L. and Origanum vulgare L. were studied. Antioxidant activity was assessed in six different model systems. Free radical scavenging capacity (RSC) was evaluated by measuring the scavenging capacity of extracts on DPPH, NO, O₂•⁻ and OH radical, as well as on hydrogen peroxide (H₂O₂). In addition, the protective effects on lipid peroxidation in liposomes (LPx) were evaluated by TBA-assay using the Fe²⁺/ascorbate induction system. The amount of total phenolic compounds and content of total flavonoids was also determined. EtOAc, n-BuOH and H₂O extracts of Ocimum basilicum and Origanum vulgare expressed very strong scavenger activity. Furthermore, the mentioned extracts showed notable inhibition of LPx. On the other hand, Et₂O and CHCl₃ extracts showed much weaker effect in the neutralization of DPPH, NO and O₂•⁻ radicals and the neutralization of H₂O₂. When examining the production of OH radicals and inhibition of LPx, the Et₂O and CHCl₃ extracts showed weak prooxidative properties. The observed differences in antioxidant activity could be partially explained by the levels of phenolics and flavonoids in the investigated Ocimum basilicum and Origanum vulgare extracts.

In a 2008 study of plants in the Lamiaceae family "Antioxidant Activity of Coleus Blumei, Orthosiphon Stamineus, Ocimum basilicum and Mentha arvensis from Lamiaceae Family" published in International Journal of Natural and Engineering Sciences 2, the leaves and stems of Ocimum basilicum and Mentha arvensis, using various in vitro antioxidant assays, displayed the highest antioxidant activity. Results showed Ocimum basilicum and Mentha arvensis with more antioxidant activity than Ocimum sanctum.

Contains Antioxidants Which Fights Diseases (Benefits on DNA):

Basil leaves contains essential oils which help to combat against free radical damage to the body. It also protects the cells and DNA structure. Basil oil is recognized to safeguard DNA from damage. The flavonoids contained in the oil safeguard the body at cellular level. Two flavonoids which are particularly advantageous are orientin and also vicenin. These types of water soluble flavonoids safeguard the DNA as well as white blood cells. Cellular damage because of radiation or even damage triggered by oxygen could be managed by using Basil oil. This is due to the presence of water soluble antioxidants like viceninare and orientin and aid in immune system functioning and also regulating cellular structures. The antioxidants which are present in Basil can protect the body from cancerous growth and mutation of cells. Most of the times, toxins are present in our diet which cause stress to occur in the body, Basil leaves has anti-oxidants which help us fight oxidation and slows down the effect of aging.

Free Radicals:

The culinary herb contains a range of natural antioxidants, which can help protect body tissues against free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable atoms. To become stable, they take electrons from other atoms and form chains. These chains of free radicals cause oxidative stress to the body and cause more damage to the cells. To reduce the oxidative stress, one must up the intake of antioxidants. Basil contains two important water-soluble flavonoid antioxidants, known as orientin and viceninare. These potent antioxidants strengthen immune system, protect cellular structure, DNA and delay effects of skin ageing.

Oxidative Stress:

Antioxidants are essential for eliminating free radicals from the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that develop as a result of metabolism and other natural processes. They can also form as a result of smoking and some dietary choices. Antioxidants are compounds that help remove these molecules from the body. If they build up instead, oxidative stress can occur, resulting in cell damage and, possibly, disease.

Scientists have linked cancer, heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and other health issues to oxidative stress. The body produces some antioxidants, but it also needs to absorb some from the diet. Among the many antioxidants in Basil are anthocyanins and beta carotene.

When researchers studied the anti-stress effects of fresh Basil leaves given to rabbits that were exposed to a high-stress environment, they found a significant improvement in oxidative stress levels following Basil use. After the rabbits received supplementation of 2 grams of fresh Basil leaves for 30 days, they experienced cardiovascular and respiratory protection in response to stressors. A significant decrease in blood sugar levels was also observed, while a significant increase in antioxidant activity was observed.

A 2020 study "Two Cultivars of Ocimum basilicum Leaves Extracts Attenuate Streptozotocin-mediated Oxidative Stress in Diabetic Rats" published in Pak J Biol Sci. by Lyutha Al-Subhi, Mostafa Ibrahim Waly, investigated the antioxidant property and anti-diabetic effect of two Basil cultivars of Ocimum basilicum, "Italian Genovese" and "Thyrsiflora", in a Streptozotocin (STZ) rat model of diabetes. 60 adult Sprague Dawley rats (n = 10/group) were divided into 6 groups: Three non-diabetic and three diabetic groups that either did not receive any supplementation or were supplemented with the leaves extract of one or the other cultivar. After 13 weeks of feeding, all rats were sacrificed, pancreatic tissues were homogenized and used for evaluating oxidative DNA damage and dichlorofluorescein fluorescence (DCF) assay. Blood was collected for the measurements of glucose and insulin. The STZ caused oxidative stress in the diabetic group as evidenced by an increase in oxidative DNA damage and also caused DCF production in pancreatic tissues as compared to non-diabetic groups, (p<0.05). The STZ treatment resulted in hyperglycemia and low serum insulin level in diabetic rats. Supplementation with extracts of "Italian Genovese" and "Thyrsiflora" to the diabetic groups significantly abrogated the STZ-mediated effects (p<0.05). The results indicated that the extracts from the leaves of the two examined Basil cultivars act as potent antioxidants and combat the STZ-mediated diabetogenic effect.

Insects & Pests:

Insect Bites and Stings:

Basil is also beneficial for insect stings and bites. A teaspoon of fresh juice should be applied on the affected areas and repeated after a few hours. A paste of fresh roots is also effective in case of bites of insects and leeches. Basil essential oil can also be an excellent cure for itchiness from bites as well as stings from honey bees, insects and also snakes. It behaves as a natural antidote for the snake poison.

In case you are bitten or stung by an insect as well as don’t have any Plantain growing close by, chewing up a Basil leaf as well as applying to the bite may help reduce the pain as well as remove the venom.

Insect Repellent:

Basil essential oil may also be used just as one insect repellent and also to deal with insect bites. Flies particularly do not like the odor of Basil. In case you or perhaps your kids are stressed along with insect bites utilize Basil oil right on the skin or even use with a carrier oil. This helps reduce the swelling as well as pain of the bites. They’ll additionally heal more quickly.

Include 5 to 6 drops of Basil oil to 4 ounces of either distilled or even spring water in a glass spray bottle. Tremble the mix just before spraying this particular natural insect repellent throughout the room.

Repels Culex pipiens Mosquitos (Mosquito-Borne Pathogens):

A 2015 study "Repellent effect of Ocimum basilicum and Glycyrrhiza glabra extracts against the mosquito Vector, Culex pipiens (Diptera: Culicidae)" published in Journal Egypt Soc Parasitol. by Mostafa I Hassan, Kotb M Hammad, Saeed M Saeed, essential or volatile oils of plants have been variously reported to have many medicinal applications. Methanol, acetone and petroleum ether extracts of Ocimum basilicum and Glycyrrhiza glabra were screened for their repellency effect against Culex pipiens mosquito. The repellent action of the present plants extracts were varied depending on the solvent used and dose of extract. Methanol extract of Ocimum basilicum exhibited the lowest repellent activity as it recorded 77.4% at 6.7mg/cm2. The petroleum ether and acetone extract of Ocimum basilicum showed repellency of 98.1 & 84.6% respectively, at dose of 6.7mg/cm2, while methanolic extract of G. glabra recorded 73.8 & 50.3% at dose of 6.7 &1.7mg/cm2 respectively, the petroleum ether and acetone extract of Glycyrrhiza glabra showed repellency of 76.3 & 81.6%, respectively at dose of 6.7mg/cm2, compared with the commercial formulation, N.N. diethyl toulamide (DEET) which exhibited 100% repellent action at dose of 1.8mg/cm2, respectively. The results may contribute to design an alternative way to control mosquitoes currently based on applications of synthetic insecticides. These extracts could be developed commercially as an effective personal protection meaure against mosquito bites and thus to control diseases caused by mosquito-borne pathogens.

Repels Aedes aegypti Mosquitos (Dengue - Break-Bone Fever):

Dengue is a viral infection that spreads from mosquitoes to people. It is more common in tropical and subtropical climates. Most people who get dengue won't have symptoms. But for those that do, the most common symptoms are high fever, headache, body aches, nausea and rash. Ocimum basilicum L. is used to cure many types of fever in traditional medicine.

A 2023 study "Anti-Dengue Activity of Lipophilic Fraction of Ocimum basilicum L. Stem" published in Molecules, by Rajesh Kumar Joshi, Shivankar Agarwal, Poonam Patil, Kalichamy Alagarasu, Kingshuk Panda, Sarah Cherian, Deepti Parashar, Subarna Roy, aims to explore the antiviral activity of the lipophilic fraction of the stem of O. basilicum (LFOB) against dengue virus (DENV) and chikungunya virus (CHIKV). The LFOB was analyzed using GC-FID and GC-MS. The antiviral activity of LFOB was studied using the Vero CCL-81 cell line. The cytotoxicity assay was performed using 3-(4,5-dimethythiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyl tetrazolium bromide (MTT). In vitro antiviral activity and FFU assay were used to determine and confirm antiviral activity against DENV and CHIKV. Twenty-six compounds were identified in LFOB using GC/MS. The most abundant compounds were β-sitosterol (22.9%), stigmasterol (18.7%), and campesterol (12.9%). Significant reduction in DENV titre was observed under pre- and post-infection treatment conditions at a concentration of 3.125 µg/mL, but no anti-CHIKV activity was observed. Our earlier and the present AutoDock-Vina-based in silico docking study revealed that β-sitosterol and stigmasterol could form strong interactions with the DENV E glycoprotein and DENV RdRp domain, respectively. Our findings suggest that LFOB can inhibit DENV infection and might act as a potent prophylactic/therapeutic agent against DENV-2. In silico results suggested that β-sitosterol and stigmasterol may block the viral entry by inhibiting the fusion process and viral replication respectively.

Repels Aedes aegypti Mosquitos (Dengue - Break-Bone Fever, Zika, Chikungunya, Mayaro, Yellow Fever):

Arthropod-borne viral diseases are important public health threats in tropical countries. In the Americas, diseases such as Dengue, Zika, Chikungunya, Mayaro, and Yellow fever, which are mainly transmitted by Aedes aegypti L. are responsible for high rates of morbidity and mortality in the populations. The incidence of those viruses has increased in the last few years, due to the decrease of vector control programs, as well as, the resistance of this vector in front of many products that have been used in this proposal. Plant-based products such as essential oils are a promising alternative for Aedes aegypti control.

In a 2022 study "Seasonal variation in the chemical composition and larvicidal activity against Aedes aegypti L. of essential oils from Brazilian Amazon" published in Exp Parasitol., by Tássio Rômulo Silva Araújo Luz, José Antonio Costa Leite, Ludmilla Santos Silva de Mesquita, Samara Araújo Bezerra, Edilene Carvalho Gomes Ribeiro, Daniella Patrícia Brandão Silveira, José Wilson Carvalho de Mesquita, Flávia Maria Mendonça do Amaral, Denise Fernandes Coutinho, the present work aims to investigate the seasonality effect on the larvicidal potential and safety of essential oils from 4 endemic plants of the Brazilian Amazon, as well as to verify their larvicidal activity and safety. The species were collected in the rainy and dry periods (Eugenia uniflora L., Lantana camara L., Ocimum basilicum L., Plectranthus neochilus Schlrt.). The essential oils were extracted by hydrodistillation and chemical composition was determined by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. The larvicidal activity was performed according to the methodology recommended by the World Health Organization. The safety of the oil use was evaluated against two non-target organisms: Artemia salina Leach and Danio rerio Hamilton Buchanan. Essential oils of E. uniflora, L. camara, O. basilicum, P. neochilus, presented as major compounds, in both collection periods, the substances Curzerene, Germacrene D, Methyl chavicol and, Caryophyllene, respectively. However, showed a qualitative and quantitative variation of this composition. All oils showed promising results against Ae. aegypti larvae with LC50 between 41.7 and 275.8 μg/mL. They were efficient against Ae. aegypti but showed high toxicity to non-target organisms, requiring additional safety studies. Despite these results showing that those essential oils are not ideal larvicides because they presented toxicity to non-target organisms, bioprospection is a promising tool to help reduce the dissemination of arboviruses, and they can use in artificial breeders of Ae. aegypti larvae, where water will not be reused for human consumption or have other cohabiting organisms.

Repels Ticks (Rhipicephalus annulatus, Rhipicephalus microplus):

A 2020 study "Synthesis of Nanocomposites Layered Double Hydroxide via Ocimum basilicum and Its Acaricidal Efficacy Against Multi-Resistance Rhipicephalus annulatus Tick" published in Journal Biomed Nanotechnol. by Shawky M Aboelhadid, Hesham Abdo Mahran, Fatma Abo I El-Ela, Kalid M Shokeir, Khaled Hussien Henedy, Sahar Mohamed Gadelhaq, Ahmed A Mahmoud, Abdel-Azeem S Abdel-Baki, Saleh Al-Quraishy, Heba Abdel-Tawab, a layered double hydroxide incorporated with Ocimum basilicum essential oil was prepared and its acaricide efficacy against Rhipicephalus annulatus tick was investigated. The Ocimum basilicum essential oil was extracted from plants farmed in the study area. Zn-Al layered double hydroxide/Gallate was prepared by co-precipitation method then Ocimum basilicum oil was added to obtain Ocimum basilicum/layered double hydroxide nano-composite. The obtained product was characterized by X-Ray Diffraction, Fourier-transform infrared and scanning electron microscopy. The acaricidal activity of different concentrations of the obtained Ocimum basilicum/layered double hydroxide nanocomposite (6.25, 12.5, 25, 50, 100, 200 and 300 l/mL) was evaluated via the adult immersion test, egg hatchability test, larval packet test and repellency test. Ocimum basilicum oil and Ocimum basilicum/layered double hydroxide nano-composite showed 100% adult mortality and prevent egg deposition at a dose of 300 l/mL. Also, eggs hatching was fully inhibited at 300 l/mL while at the concentration of 200 l/mL the inhibition rate was 95%. In larval packet test, Ocimum basilicum/layered double hydroxide showed a high toxicological effect which leading to 100% and 43% larval mortality at doses of 200 μ l/mL and 100 μl/mL, respectively. Meanwhile Ocimum basilicum alone showed 100% and 45% larval mortality at doses of 300 μl/mL and 200 μl/mL, respectively. The LC50, LC90 and LC99 values of Ocimum basilicum/layered double hydroxide and Ocimum basilicum were found to be 107.46 versus 209.908 μl/mL, 171.22 versus 282.63 μl/mL and 196.15 versus 298.26 μl/mL, respectively. The repellence activity was lasted for 3 h after application against larvae. Ocimum basilicum/layered double hydroxide was found to be more repellent than Ocimum basilicum as evidenced by the RC50 values after 2 h and 3 h (48.82 vs. 79.99 μl/mL and 89.47 vs. 185.32μ l/mL, respectively). Overall, our results proved that layered double hydroxide enhanced the larvaicidal and repellent efficacy of Ocimum basilicum against R. annulatus tick larvae.

A 2014 study "Acaricidal activity of Ocimum basilicum and Spilanthes acmella against the ectoparasitic tick, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus (Arachinida ixodidae)" published in Trop Biomed. by V Veeramani, S Sakthivelkumar, K Tamilarasan, S O Aisha, S Janarthanan, Rhipicephalus (Boophilus) microplus collected at various cattle farms in and around Chennai was subjected to treatment of different crude solvent extracts of leaves of Ocimum basilicum and Spilanthes acmella for acaricidal activity. Among various solvent extracts of leaves of Ocimum basilicum and S. acmella used, chloroform extract of Ocimum basilicum at concentrations between 6% and 10% exhibited 70% and 100% mortality of ticks when compared to control. The LC50 and LC90 values of the chloroform extract of leaves of Ocimum basilicum treatment on the ticks after 24 h were observed as 5.46% and 7.69%. Quantitative and qualitative analysis of α- and β- carboxylesterase enzymes in the whole gut homogenate of cattle tick, R. microplus treated with chloroform extract of leaves of Ocimum basilicum revealed higher level of activities for the enzymes. This indicated that there was an induced response in the tick, R. microplus against the toxic effects of the extract of Ocimum basilicum.

Larvicidal Activity - Mosqitos Aedes aegypti and Diptera: Culicidae:

Aedes aegypti L. (Diptera: Culicidae) is an important transmitter of diseases in tropical countries and controlling the larvae of this mosquito helps to reduce cases of diseases such as dengue, zika and chikungunya.

"Studies on the Phytochemical Profile of Ocimum basilicum var. minimum (L.) Alef. Essential Oil, Its Larvicidal Activity and In Silico Interaction with Acetylcholinesterase against Aedes aegypti (Diptera: Culicidae)" published in 2022 International Journal Mol Sci., by Anderson de Santana Botelho, Oberdan Oliveira Ferreira, Mozaniel Santana de Oliveira, Jorddy Neves Cruz, Sandro Henrique Dos Reis Chaves, Alejandro Ferraz do Prado, Lidiane Diniz do Nascimento, Geilson Alcantara da Silva, Cristine Bastos do Amarante, Eloisa Helena de Aguiar Andrade, aimed to evaluate the larvicidal potential of the essential oil of Ocimum basilicum var. minimum (L.) Alef. The essential oil was extracted by stem distillation and the chemical composition was characterized by gas chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (GC/MS and GC-FID). The larvicidal activity of essential oil was evaluated against third instar Aedes aegypti following World Health Organization (WHO) standard protocol and the interaction of the major compounds with the acetylcholinesterase (AChE) was evaluated by molecular docking. The predominant class was oxygenated monoterpenes with a concentration of 81.69% and the major compounds were limonene (9.5%), 1,8-cineole (14.23%), linalool (24.51%) and methyl chavicol (37.41%). The Ocimum basilicum var. minimum essential oil showed unprecedented activity against third instar Aedes aegypti larvae at a dose-dependent relationship with LC₅₀ of 69.91 (µg/mL) and LC₉₀ of 200.62 (µg/mL), and the major compounds were able to interact with AChE in the Molecular Docking assay, indicating an ecological alternative for mosquito larvae control.

Acaricidal and Anthelmintic:

In a 2022 study "Acaricidal and anthelmintic efficacy of Ocimum basilicum essential oil and its major constituents estragole and linalool, with insights on acetylcholinesterase inhibition" published in Vet Parasitol., by Dhouha Alimi, Azhar Hajri, Selim Jallouli, Hichem Sebai, evaluated the acaricidal and anthelmintic action of Ocimum basilicum essential oil and its main components against ticks and helminth parasites as well as to relate these activities to acetylcholinesterase inhibition. The in vitro acaricidal activity against Hyalomma scupense was evaluated by Adult Immersion Test and Larval Packet Test, while the in vivo nematocidal potential was assessed in laboratory mice infected with Heligmosomoides polygyrus using fecal egg count reduction and total worm count reduction. Chemical analyzes were performed by gas chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry. Estragole (80.87%) and linalool (16.12%) were the major compounds detected in Ocimum basilicum essential oil. In the Adult Immersion Test assay for Hyalomma scupense tick, LC₅₀ of estragole, Ocimum basilicum oil and linalool were 0.73, 0.81 and 0.97 mg/mL, respectively. In Larval Packet Test, estragole, linalool and essential oil showed LC₅₀ of 0.22, 1.11 and 1.19 mg/mL, respectively. Against Heligmosomoides polygyrus, the highest activity was observed with estragole administered at 100 mg/kg body weight (bwt), which resulted in a fecal egg count reduction of 90.86% and a total worm count reduction of 82.91%. The Ocimum basilicum essential oil, estragole and linalool inhibited the enzyme acetylcholinesterase (AChE) extracted from both parasites species. Estragole was found the most active AChE inhibitor with IC₅₀ of 0.176 mg/mL for Hyalomma scupense and IC₅₀ of 0.138 mg/mL for Heligmosomoides polygyrus larvae. The results of the present study pointed out the importance of the traditional use of Ocimum basilicum as an eco-friendly alternative against endo and ectoparasites. In vivo trials should also be conducted to confirm the above-mentioned activities and to assure the safe use of natural plants.

Control of Fall Armyworm (Spodoptera frugiperda):

Spodoptera frugiperda is a major pest of maize crops. The application of synthetic insecticides and the use of Bt maize varieties are the principal strategies used for its control. However, due to the development of pesticide resistance and the negative impact of insecticides on the environment, natural alternatives are constantly being searched for.

In a 2023 review of toxicity methods and their modes of action "Can Essential Oils Be a Natural Alternative for the Control of Spodoptera frugiperda?" published in Plants (Basel), by Virginia L Usseglio, José S Dambolena, María P Zunino, the objective was to evaluate the use of essential oils as natural alternatives for controlling S. frugiperda. This review article covers the composition of essential oils, methods used for the evaluation of essential oil toxicity, essential oil effects, and their mode of action. Although the essential oils of Ocimum basilicum, Piper marginatum, and Lippia alba are the most frequently used, Ageratum conyzoides, P. septuplinervium. O. gratissimum and Siparuna guianensis were shown to be the most effective. As the principal components of these essential oils vary, then their mode of action on the pest could be different. The results of our analysis allowed us to evaluate and compare the potential of certain essential oils for the control of this insect. In order to obtain comparable results when evaluating the toxicity of essential oils on S. frugiperda, it is important that methodological issues are taken into account.

Scorpion Stings:

Apply a paste of Basil leaves and roots ground together on the sting of the scorpion. It will totally eradicate the effects of poison. Also in such cases, crushing a few leaves of Basil and mixing it with Lemon helps too. Apply it on the area of the sting and it will cure the problem. The pain caused by the sting can be reduced by drinking Basil juice and also by applying it on the sting.

American Tomato Moth (Meyrick - Phthorimaea absoluta):

Phthorimaea absoluta is one of the most destructive pests of tomato, causing 100% yield loss in the absence of control measures. The important method of managing the pest is by using synthetic insecticides. However, intermittent and indiscriminate uses of certain insecticides have negative effect on the environment. Use of herbal insecticides such as secondary metabolites and essential oils is a key for sustainable long term crop protection.

In a 2023 study "Insecticidal properties of Ocimum basilicum and Mentha piperita essential oils against South American Tomato moth, Phthorimaea absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelichiidae)" published in Pestic Biochem Physiol. by N R Prasannakumar, N Jyothi, S Saroja, A N Lokesha, investigation on the insecticidal properties of Ocimum basilicum, Mentha piperita essential oils and their constituents was carried out against P. absoluta. The M. piperita essential oil showed highest mortality (100%) of P. absoluta with LC₅₀ 1.78 μl/ml due to alloaromadendrene (27.99%), levomenthol (18.31%) and santolina triene (9.78%). The O. basilicum essential oil also had significant mortality (90%) effect with LC₅₀ 3.58 μl/ml due to humulene (32.31%), alpha farnesense (27.22%), estragole (19.24%) and 4-cerene (10.61%). Among binary compounds, levomenthol showed highest mortality (100%) having LC₅₀ 13.18 μl/ml followed by alpha-pinene (100%) with LC₅₀ 16.10 μl/ml, 4-cerene (95%) with LC₅₀ 38.20 μl/ml and alpha-phellandrene (90%) having LC₅₀ 46.83 μl/ml. The observed toxicity in all compounds was due to significant changes in the activity of esterases, glutathione S-transferase and acetylcholine esterases over the time. The present study suggests that O. basilium and M. piperita essential oils would provide an additional approach for the management of P. absoluta over synthetic insecticides.

Apple-Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella):

The addition of flowering companion plants within or around crop fields is a promising strategy to strengthen pest regulation by their natural enemies. Aromatic plants are frequently used as companion plants, but their effects on natural enemies remain unclear under field conditions.

A 2022 study "Conservation Biological Control of Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella): Effects of Two Aromatic Plants, Basil (Ocimum basilicum) and French Marigolds (Tagetes patula)" published in Insects, by Ludivine Laffon, Armin Bischoff, Hélène Gautier, Florent Gilles, Laurent Gomez, Françoise Lescourret, Pierre Franck, evaluated the effects of two aromatic plant species on the parasitism of the codling moth (Cydia pomonella) and the recruitment of predatory arthropods (spiders, earwigs) in a factorial field experiment. Apple trees were intercropped with Basil (Ocimum basilicum), French Marigolds (Tagetes patula), or Ryegrass (Lolium perenne). The association between apple trees and Ocimum basilicum increases codling moth parasitism, but does not affect arthropod predator abundances. Furthermore, we find a general negative effect of Tagetes patula on arthropod diversities and abundances, including the pest and its natural enemies. Finally, changes in the parasitism rate and arthropod community structure due to the aromatic plants do not reduce codling moth density or associated apple damage. Further experiments are needed to determine the mechanisms involved in aromatic plant effects on pest repellence and on natural enemy recruitment (volatile organic compound composition, floral resource supply, or pest density dependence).

Storage-Pest Management (Tribolium confusum, Tenebrio molitor, and Acanthoscelides obtectus):

A 2022 study "Essential Oils: Useful Tools in Storage-Pest Management" published in Plants (Basel), by Ľudovít Cagáň, Miroslava Apacsová Fusková, Daniela Hlávková, Oxana Skoková Habuštová, aimed to verify the level of repellent and mortality effect of two chemical substances (DEET and 2-undecanone) and seven essential oils, Allium sativum, Artemisia annua, Ocimum basilicum, Lavandula angustifolia, Eucalyptus globulus, Pinus sylvestris, and Curcuma longa. The storage pests Tribolium confusum, Tenebrio molitor, and Acanthoscelides obtectus were exposed to various concentrations in an olfactometer-and-mortality test. The effects were recorded 24-48-72 h after the treatments were applied. Allium sativum, Eucalyptus globulus, and Lavandula angustifolia were found to have significant repellence effects. A substantial lethal effect was observed for Allium sativum, Eucalyptus globulus, and Ocimum basilicum. We also found that even if the most efficient essential oils were diluted to low concentrations, they still produced repellent and mortality effects. The presented results indicate that Allium sativum and Ocimum basilicum were the most effective against Tribolium confusum and Tenebrio molitor; simultaneously, Lavandula angustifolia and Curcuma longa showed high activity against Acanthoscelides obtectus. All of these efficient essential oils could be applied as effective bio-control agents in various stored conditions.

Other Benefits and Uses:

Easy to Add to Your Diet:

Basil is a fragrant herb with a distinctive flavor that many people enjoy. The various types have different flavors. Basil can go with just about anything. But wash them thoroughly before eating them raw or adding them to your diet. Smaller pieces allow you to enjoy them well, so finely cut them into bite-size pieces. To add Basil to your diet, follow these tips:

Basil is one of the main ingredients in pesto, a green Italian oil-and-herb sauce. It's also an essential ingredient in the popular Italian tomato sauce marinara. Sprinkle fresh Basil over the top of the pizza. Basil gives zest to tomato dishes, salads, zucchini, eggplant, meat seasonings, stuffing, soups, sauces and more. Add whole, chopped, or torn fresh leaves to a salad.
Pesto is one of Basil’s most popular uses. It’s typically made from crushed Basil, Garlic, Parmesan cheese, Olive oil and Pine Nuts, though dairy-free options are also available. This particular culinary usage is certainly one of Basil’s most widely used uses as well as variations of this are utilized in cultures all over the world. At our home, we include pesto to anything from eggs, to meats to slices of fresh Cucumber.
Add it to any sandwich or wrap, especially ones with tomato sauce, and stir-fries, hummus, or Avocado. Arrange some Basil leaves over slices of tomato and mozzarella, then drizzle the dish with olive oil.
Make a marinade with Basil, olive oil, and chopped garlic.
Basil complements other herbs and spices such as Garlic, Marjoram, Mustard, Oregano, Paprika, Parsley, Pepper, Rosemary and Sage.
The cooking process can destroy the nutrients present in Basil, so it’s best to use the herb as a seasoning at the end of cooking so that it retains most of its medicinal value.
The fresh herb can be kept for a short time in plastic bags in the refrigerator, or for a longer period in the freezer, after being blanched quickly in boiling water.
The dried herb also loses most of its flavor, and what little flavor remains tastes very different, with a weak coumarin flavor, like hay.
Dried Basil can be simply included with virtually any kind of dish. Basil is utilized all over the world in several foods with good purpose. It provides a depth as well as taste which is not beaten by other herbs.
Add them to your tea for a flavorsome healthy drink. Seeds when soaked in water, the seeds of several Basil varieties become gelatinous, and are used in Asian drinks and desserts such as Faluda, Sharbat-e-rihan, or Hột é.
Use it to flavor ice cream, frozen yogurt, smoothies, milkshakes, etc.

Basil - Vietnamese "Hột é của một thời đi học"

Benefits of Basil Herbal Tea

Basil tea is an herbal tea that is brewed with the dried leaves of the Basil plant. The term Basil incorporates a number of different subspecies, although they are all scientifically known as Ocimum basilicum. The herb has been in use for thousands of years, and originates in Asia and India, although it spread to Europe and the Mediterranean regions long ago. The different variations of this herb can produce different flavors, which can affect your tea, but look for something called sweet Basil, as this is the most common type used in this beverage.

Basil tea is just awesome, delicate and flavorful made with this simple and wonder herb Basil that actually provides us with numerous health and nutritional benefits. It seems to have originated in India about thousands of years ago mainly for its rich antioxidants and adaptogenic properties that help promote wellness and longevity. Basil has been revered in India for over five thousand years as a healing balm for body, mind and spirit and is known for imparting its amazing health benefits. It is a highly aromatic plant that used in flavoring various dishes such as meat recipes, sauces etc. It is a very ancient plant much appreciated by Egyptians and is considered a holy plant in India.

This aromatic Basil leaf is power packed with hundreds of compounds that work together to create strong antioxidant, anti-bacterial, anti-viral and immune enhancing properties. This helps in supporting the body’s natural defense against germs, stress and disease. Hence drinking Basil tea is claimed to rejuvenate the soul by balancing metabolism, building stamina and promoting mental clarity. Basil leaves have significant healing properties thus used for a variety of medical problems. It is considered to be one of the best ancient healing herbs that help in curing certain health related problems like cold, fever, cough, sore throat, heart problems, eye problems, lowering high levels of cholesterol in the blood, mouth and teeth problems Drinking a cup of hot piping Basil tea is an amazing stress reliever. Since centuries, Basil tea has been used as a remedy for relieving stress. Basil leaf has certain components that helps to improve the memory. Basil is often used in tonics for digestion that helps reduce or prevent indigestion. Including this wonder herb in your diet regularly can even help prevent acid reflux. Basil leaves are considered to be an awesome detoxifier. It is said that Basil juice with honey is commonly used as home remedy to dissolve kidney stones. Drinking Basil tea daily can help relieve the pain of rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The oils in Basil are antibacterial and can cure lung infections. Basil is also believed to help stop or reverse damage caused to the lungs due to tuberculosis and smoking.

The Basil extract is added to tea mixes, juice or water. Basil is caffeine free like any other herbal infusions and containsvitamins A and C, calcium, zinc, iron and chlorophyll. Using fresh Basil leaves, you could be benefited more. Basil is also high on iron and could be included in your daily diet so that there is high blood production. Certain research studies have shown that people eating about 2 grams of dried Basil leaf powder every morning have shown significant low in their blood glucose levels. It is considered that Basil has an ability to inhibit free radicals.

Therapeutic Benefits of Basil

Acne: Infusion of 3 tsp of dried leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 20-30 minutes.
Antibiotic Properties: European scientists are examining the usage of basil oil as cure for anti-biotic resistant infections with Staphylococcus, Enterococcus, and also Pseudomonas.
Bad Odor: Basil leaves could be chewed to avoid bad odor and is also recognized to reduce toothache as well as gum swelling. It limits germs build-up within the mouth and could be utilized like a mouth freshener. Pyorrhea may be treatable by its usage.
Blood Sugar: There is certainly several proofs that Basil might help level out blood sugar levels if ingested frequently as well as drank like a juice or tea.
Children’s Illnesses: Pediatric issues just like colds, coughs, fever, diarrhea, and vomiting are already know to reply to treatment together with the juice of basil leaves. And if the rash related to chicken pox is postponed, basil leaves along with saffron will provide them to the surface more rapidly.
Chronic Gastritis and Colitis: Make use of the recipe for the treatment of appetite loss yet drink after meals. Or pour 1 l (1 quart) boiling water over a number of chopped dry basil leaves. Let cool as well as strain. Consume half a cup three times each day.
Colds: I’ve heard many Amish locally recommend utilizing Basil leaf to assist reduce coughing and colds. They gnaw fresh leaves to calm coughing or even make a soothing tea of dried basil to assist calm illness.
Coughs: Basil is a crucial component in cough syrups as well as expectorants. It may also reduce mucus in asthma as well as bronchitis. Gnawing on Basil leaves can easily reduce colds as well as flu symptoms. / Take infusion or decoction of herb (9-15 gm of dried herb) or tops as tea. / As decoction boil eight tablespoons of fresh leaves in two glasses of water for 15 minutes or until the liquid is reduced to half. Divide the decoction into eight parts and take one part, three times a day.
Delayed Menstruation: Take the juice of the leaves with water.
Dizziness: Crush enough fresh leaves with your fingers and sniff them.
Ear Afflictions: Juice of leaves dropped in ears for earache and dullness of hearing.
Ear Infections: The essential oil is anti-bacterial, as well as drops of basil oil may possibly reduce ear infections.
Eye Disorders: Basil juice is an excellent for night-blindness as well as sore eyes. A couple of drops of black basil juice in every eye at bedtimes every day is calming.
Fever: Basil leaves are useful for quenching fevers, particularly those associated with malaria along with other infectious, eruptive fevers typical to exotic areas. Boiling leaves with a few cardamom in approximately two quarts of water, then combined with sugar and milk, lowers temperature. An extract of basil leaves in freshwater needs to be provided every 2 to 3 hours; in between doses you are able to give sips of cold water. This process is particularly efficient for decreasing fevers in youngsters.
Gas Pains: Decoction of herb as tea helps to expel wind from bowels.
Gonorrhea: Using a decoction of the roots and leaves of plants.
Headache: A facial steam along with dried basil leaf might help relieve headaches. Include a tablespoon of dried basil leaf to 2 cups of boiling water in the huge pot. Very carefully lean within the pot, cover head using a towel as well as inhale the steam for 5-10 minutes till headache begins to diminish. Bonus, you will get to give an impression of an Italian restaurant throughout the day.
Healing: Sharpen memory, use like a nerve tonic, and take away phlegm through your bronchial tubes. Replicate approximately once an hour. Leaves can easily reinforce the stomach as well as stimulate perfuse sweating. The seeds may be used to eliminate the body of excessive mucus.
Heart Problems: Basil may be used to reinforce those weakened by heart disease. It may also lower your cholesterol levels.
Kidney Stones: Basil may be used to reinforce your kidneys. In cases of stones within your kidney, the juice of basil leaves combined with honey and brought every day for 6 months will certainly discharge them from the urinary system.
Loss of Appetite: Include 1 tablespoon of dry basil leaves to 300 ml (10 oz) boiling water. Right after One minute eliminate through the heat as well as allow stay for 30 minutes. Strain as well as drink 80 ml (2,70 oz) Fifteen minutes before you eat Three times each day.
Mouth Infections: Gnawing a couple of leaves two times a day cure infections as well as ulcerations of the mouth.
Respiratory Disorders: Boiling basil leaves along with honey as well as ginger is wonderful for dealing with asthma, bronchitis, cough, cold, and influenza. Boiling the leaves, cloves, as well as sea salt in a few water can give fast relief of influenza. These types of mixtures needs to be boiled in approximately two quarts water till only half water remains just before they are taken.
Ringworm and Insect Bites: Apply juice of crushed leaves.
Skin Disorders: Basil juice utilized straight to the affected area is wonderful for ringworm along with other typical skin ailments. Several naturopaths used it effectively within the management of leucoderma (patches of white or light-colored skin).
Snake Bites: Crush fresh plant and poultice the bitten wound.
Sore Throat: Water boiled along with basil leaves could be taken like a tonic or even utilized like a gargle when you’ve got an aching throat.
Stings and Bites: In case you are doing work outside and have bitten or even stung by an insect as well as don’t have any Plantain growing close by, chewing up a basil leaf as well as applying to the bite may help reduce the pain as well as remove the venom.
Stomachache: The Italians might be on to something along with adding Basil to everything. It really is considered to have got a soothing impact on the stomach as well as ½ teaspoon of dried or fresh Basil Leaf in water can frequently assist calm indigestion as well as alleviate feelings of fullness.
Stress: Basil leaves can be used an anti-stress agent. Gnawing 12 basil leaves twice daily can easily avoid stress. It’ll cleanse the blood and assist in preventing a number of other common health conditions.
Stress Reduction: One herbalist I know recommends including 2 cups of strong Basil Leaf tea to the warm bath in reducing stress as well as help relaxation.
Toothache: Wet small piece of cotton with juice of crushed leaves and insert into tooth cavity.
Tooth Problems: Dry basil leaves under the sun as well as grind into powder for the tooth cleansing powder. You may also combine along with mustard oil to make herbal toothpaste. Both these methods will certainly counter foul breath and could be utilized to massage the gums, treat pyorrhea, along with other oral health difficulties.

Uses of Basil

Medical Uses of Basil:

Basil is used in folk medicine (usually in the form of tea) for treatment of constipation, flatulence, stomach cramps, anxiety, and depression.
Ancient Egyptians used basil as a medicine for snakebites and scorpion stings.
Pliny the Elder, a Roman naturalist, recommended basil tea as a remedy for nerves, headaches, and fainting spells.
Malays used the leaves as remedy for coughs.
It is used as an expectorant for the treatments of diseases like asthma, flu, cold and bronchitis.
Many Amish locally recommend utilizing Basil leaf to assist reduce coughing and colds. They gnaw fresh leaves to calm coughing or even make a soothing tea of dried Basil to assist calm illness.
Leaves are good for keeping diabetes under control.
Leaf extract is used to reduce throat pain and high body-temperature.
The extract is also used as anti-venom for snake bites.
It is used along with honey for the treatment of cataract.
Basil leaves are used in Ayurvedic medicines.
Leaves of these plants are used to prepare Basil tea, which helps to prevent diseases like dengue and malaria.
Leaf juice helpful for expectoration of mucus.
Decoction of leaves used as a wash for ulcers.
Tea also treats several health disorders like constipation, diarrhea and indignation.
Essential oil is used in the treatments of migraines, headaches and allergies.
Massaging with this essential oil extraction reduces arthritis.
Tender Basil leaves boiled in water act as a preventive against malaria and dengue fever.
In the case of acute fever, a decoction of the leaves boiled with cardamom powder in half a liter of water mixed with sugar and milk brings down the temperature.
Basil is also a good germicidal agent and a disinfectant that protects the human body from all types of viral infections.
Basil leaves taken with honey keeps chicken pox at bay.
Warm Basil juice gets rid of the worms in the stomach.
Decoction of leaves also used for hiccups, vomiting and nausea.
Used for external contusions.
Used in baths for rheumatic pains.
Seeds are used in treatment of several eye diseases; to soothe pain and inflammation.
Decoction of seeds used to decrease postpartum pains; the seeds are mucilaginous.
Decoction of leaves used as a wash for skin ulcers.
Decoction of leaves also used for hiccups, vomiting and nausea.
Decoction of seeds used to decrease postpartum pains; the seeds are mucilaginous.
Decoction of leaves used after childbirth; juice taken for delayed menses.
Used in baths for rheumatic pains.
For ringworm and insect bites, apply juice of crushed leaves.
Decoction of leaves used after childbirth; juice taken for delayed menses.
Seeds are used in treatment of several eye diseases; to soothe pain and inflammation.
Poultice of seeds used for buccal sores.
Seeds given as infusion for gonorrhea, diarrhea and chronic dysentery.
Seeds are used as aphrodisiac.
Poultice of seeds used for buccal sores.
Seeds, washed and pounded, used in poultices for sores and sinuses; also used internally for habitual constipation and internal hemorrhoids.
Decoction of seeds also used for constipation.
Apply externally or drink decoction of tea or infusion 3 times daily.
Seeds given as infusion for gonorrhea, diarrhea and chronic dysentery.
Seeds, washed and pounded, used in poultices for sores and sinuses; also used internally for habitual constipation and internal hemorrhoids.

Edible Uses of Basil:

In Bengal, infused in water, used as a refreshing and cooling drink.
In Kanawar, sometimes eaten mixed in ordinary bread.
Chinese also use fresh or dried basils in soups and other foods.
Basil is most commonly used fresh in cooked recipes.
Fresh or dried basil leaves are used in the preparation of soups and dishes.
Chopped fresh sweet basil leaves impart richness to vegetable (Italian panzanella salad) as well as fruit salads.
Italian large leaf basil is one of the main ingredients in ‘pesto’, a green sauce that is added to soups, vegetables, fish, and pasta dishes in Mediterranean cooking.
A kind of flavor drink made of Basil seeds is popular in some Asian countries.
People add fresh basil leaves to thick soups in Taiwan.
Add to tomato-based pasta sauces right before serving, soups and vegetables.
They also eat fried chicken with deep-fried basil leaves.
The leafy and flowering tops are used as condiment; eaten sparingly in salads.
Basil is commonly steeped in cream or milk to create an interesting flavor in ice cream or chocolates.
Sprinkle fresh basil over the top of the pizza.
Sprinkle torn basil on the tomato and mozzarella salad.
Thai basil is also a condiment in the Vietnamese noodle soup, phở or eaten sparingly in salads.
When soaked in water, the seeds of several basil varieties become gelatinous, and are used in Asian drinks and desserts such as faluda, sharbat-e-rihan, or hột é.
Torn leaves make a fresh and tasty addition to summer salads and a special treat on a pizza.
Basil seeds are used in Asian drinks and desserts such as falooda or sherbet.
Dried basil can be simply included with virtually any kind of dish. Basil is utilized all over the world in several foods with good purpose. It provides a depth as well as taste which is not beaten by other herbs.
Basil Pesto - this particular culinary usage is certainly one of Basil’s most widely used uses as well as variations of this are utilized in cultures all over the world. At our home, we include pesto to anything from eggs, to meats to slices of fresh cucumber.
Seeds are sometimes eaten.
Use in the marinade along with garlic as well as olive oil.

Other Uses of Basil:

In Africa, they are compounded into cosmetics.
Malays use it as a scent for clothes.
Some beautiful varieties of these plants like the African Blue Basil are used for decorative purposes.
Oils repel insects (limonene, myrcene, camphor, thymol) and have larvicidal (eugenol and methylclaviol) activity against houseflies and mosquitoes.

Ayurvedic Uses and Health Benefits of Basil

Acne: Infusion of 3 tsp of dried leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 20-30 minutes.
Alertness and Concentration: Keep a small bottle of undiluted Basil essential oil and inhale through each nostril as required.
Amenorrhea (Lack of a Menstrual Cycle): Use Basil essential oils as guided above on the ankles as well as heels of the feet and also over the lower abdomen. / Utilize 2-3 drops inside a diffuser frequently.
Arthritis, Muscle Spasms and Rheumatism: Utilize 2-3 drops in a single oz of carrier oil as well as massage affected areas. May also be included with a hot compress.
For blockage, use 2-3 drops of oil in a single oz of carrier oil. Rub on chest as well as upper back.
Autism: Massage one drop of oil as well as three drops of coconut oil in the feet every night.
Insect or Bee Bites/Stings: Dilute the Basil essential oils along with 3 drops of carrier oil as well as massage in the bites 1-3 times each day.
Bronchitis: Diffuse the oil throughout the room or home, add a 1-2 drops to a steam tent or bath and massage into the chest.
Bursitis: Massage in the regions of pain and inflammation.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: Dilute along with 3 drops of Coconut oil as well as apply at the affected region. Massage to the shoulder, placing reasonable pressure over the tendons as well as muscles as though “stripping”.
Chronic Fatigue: Make use of Basil essential oils topically around the feet or even by diffusing them aromatically.
Cough: Take infusion or decoction of herb (9-15 gm of dried herb) or tops as tea.
Cramps (Abdominal): Could be taken internally (for instance within capsules) or even massages in the inflicted area.
Cuts: Make use of to avoid infection simply by diluting as well as applying to the area.
Earache: Dilute one drop of Basil essential oils along with 3 drop of carrier oil as well as massage behind, over and round the ear. Don’t use within the ear. / Juice of leaves dropped in ears for earache and dullness of hearing. / Use a drop or even two of Basil oil in your finger. Use the oil possibly behind the ear on the mastoid bone or perhaps in the outer ear. Usually do not place the oil within the ear canal! You may also include 3 or 4 drops of Basil on the cotton ball and put it within the outer ear. Repetitive usage of Basil oil may help quit reoccurring ear infections in kids.
Frozen Shoulder: Combine along with Deep Blue essential oil blend along with carrier oil and rub in the area once daily.
Gas Pains: Decoction of herb as tea helps to expel wind from bowels.
Gonorrhea: Using a decoction of the roots and leaves of plants.
Greasy/Oily Hair: Include a drop in your shampoo or even combine along with baking soda, water as well as apple cider vinegar and shampoo normally.
Headache and Migraine: Utilize 2-3 drops of Basil oil in the cold or hot compress.
Healing: Use topically, around the bottom of the feet or over the area of concern whenever suggested.
Hiatal Hernia: Gently rub topically within the area.
Induce Sweating: Use without or with dilution based on the skin levels of sensitivity to assist cleanse the lymphatic system.
Infertility: Diffuse through the entire home for 20 minutes each day as well as use topically round the reflex points of the ankles as well as feet and also over the reproductive organs.
Insect or Bee Bites/Stings: Dilute the Basil essential oils along with 3 drops of carrier oil as well as massage in the bites 1-3 times each day.
Lactation (Increasing): Rub only one drop in the breasts, usually moving toward the lymphs under the arms.
Menstruation Pain: Take the juice of the leaves with water. / 1 oz Olive oil along with 6 drops of Basil and Geranium essential oil. Apply at lower abdomen three times each day.
Mental Fatigue: Diffuse aromatically to uplift as well as promote the senses, or even massage in the toes as well as feet.
Migraines: Diffuse aromatically to relief pain or even massage in the temples, base of neck and also over areas of pain.
Mouth Ulcers: Include a drop to water as well as wash the mouth 1-3 times each day as suggested. You could also attempt to add a small amount of lemon essential oil along with a drop of On Guard.
Muscle Pain: Drop 2-3 drops of Basil essential oil in the bath water and have a bath. You can include a lot of other bath fizzes too.
Muscle Spasms: Massage to the inflicted area. Think about using Deep Blue essential oil mix too.
Muscular Dystrophy: Massage topically within the body, as well as in the reflex points of the feet.
Nerve and Fatigue: In the big pitcher of water include a couple of fresh Basil along with slices of 1 Orange. Refrigerate and drink during the day.
Olfactory Loss (Sense of Smell): Use aromatically simply by sniffing the bottle, diffusing, etc in addition to topically within the reflex points and also over the sinuses (make sure stay away from the eyes as well as test for sensitivity first).
Ovarian Cyst: Diffuse through the entire room for 20 minutes each day or even inhale from the steam tent, as well as massage within the ovary itself 1-2 times each day.
Schmidt’s Syndrome: Rub topically in the reflex points of the feet.
Snake Bites: Dilute lightly as well as carefully apply to the area. / Crush fresh plant and poultice the bitten wound.
Spider Bites: Use a single drop the area (dilute for sensitive skin).
Stress, Anxiety and Depression: Make use of 2-3 drops in the diffuser. May add 2-3 drops of oil to 1 oz of carrier oil as well as massage on body. For additional advantage, include Lavender and/or Peppermint on the combination.
Toothache: Wet small piece of cotton with juice of crushed leaves and insert into tooth cavity.
Transition in Labor: Massage in the lower back, into the reflex points of the feet throughout labor transition.
Viral Hepatitis: Use aromatically simply by diffusing or even inhaling whenever suggested, and massage to the feet and also over the entire body.
Wounds: Whenever indicated, lightly apply at the area of interest or over the reflex points for the hands and feet.

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