Basil - Βασιλικός - Ocimum Basilicum

Basil - Βασιλικός - Ocimum Basilicum

Basic Medicinal Properties:

Anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. Beneficial for arthritis, heart disease, and gut health. Fights free radicals.

Additional Details

Reducing Oxidative Stress

Basil is rich in antioxidants. Sweet basil contains a compound called eugenol, while lime and lemon basils contain limonene. These antioxidants, along with others such as anthocyanins and beta-carotene, help combat free radicals in the body that might otherwise lead to cellular damage and increase the risk of various health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes.

Regulating Blood Sugar

Some studies suggest that incorporating basil into your diet may help lower high blood sugar levels and reduce the long-term effects of elevated blood sugar.

Type 2 DiabetesThe Azad University of Agriculture and Technology in Kanpur, India, conducted a four-week study involving 40 patients with type 2 diabetes. Half of the group received a placebo, while the other half were given 2.5 grams of dried basil leaf powder per day. By the end of the study, the basil group recorded a 17.6% decrease in fasting blood glucose levels and a 7.3% reduction in post-meal blood glucose levels.One proposed mechanism for basil’s blood glucose-lowering effect is ursolic acid, which has been shown to act as an alpha-glucosidase inhibitor, meaning it reduces glucose absorption in the small intestine and prevents spikes in blood sugar levels.

Preventing Heart Disease

Eugenol in basil may block calcium channels, which could help lower blood pressure. Its essential oils may also help reduce cholesterol and triglycerides. Additionally, basil contains magnesium, which can aid blood flow by allowing muscles and blood vessels to relax.

Reducing Inflammation

Basil’s essential oils, including eugenol, linalool, and citronellol, help combat inflammation in the body. These anti-inflammatory properties may lower the risk of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, and gut-related disorders.

Protection Against Infections

Basil has antibacterial properties. Its oils may help fight bacteria linked to respiratory, urinary, abdominal, and skin infections.

About the Herb

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a fragrant and versatile herb belonging to the Lamiaceae family, which also includes mint, rosemary, and thyme. Native to tropical regions of Asia and Africa, basil has been cultivated for thousands of years for both its culinary and medicinal properties.

The name "basil" is derived from the Greek Βασιλικός Φυτό (Vasilikos Fyto), meaning "royal plant," reflecting its esteemed status in ancient cultures. In historical texts, basil was believed to have divine origins and was often associated with purification and protection. The herb was highly revered in both Greek and Roman traditions, where it was used in religious ceremonies, herbal remedies, and even in perfumery for royalty.

Basil is widely used in global cuisines, from Italian pesto to Thai curries, and its aromatic leaves add a distinct flavour to many dishes. It comes in various varieties, including sweet basil, holy basil (Ocimum sanctum or Tulsi), lemon basil, and Thai basil, each with its own unique fragrance and medicinal benefits.

Throughout history, basil has been attributed with protective and healing properties. In Ayurveda and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), it has been used to support digestion, promote heart health, and relieve respiratory issues. Holy basil (Tulsi), in particular, holds sacred significance in India and is considered an adaptogenic herb, helping the body manage stress and balance overall health.

With its rich history, culinary versatility, and powerful medicinal properties, basil remains one of the most cherished herbs worldwide, offering both flavour and wellness benefits in daily life.