Basil properties and contraindications Basil is widely used in the world of natural medicine due to the great benefits it provides, but it is also important to know its contraindications and side effects. Next, we detail them, but first we will analyze their botanical aspect.
Basil is a member of the Lamiaecae or mint family, which is characterized by the fragrant leaves of its members and contains more than 7,200 species, mainly mint (Mentha x piperita), rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), sage (Salvia officinalis), oregano. (Origanum). vulgare), thyme (Thymus vulgaris) and lavender (Lavandula officinalis).
The botanical name of sweet basil, Ocicum basilicum, derives from the Greek okimon (smell) and basilikon (real).
Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) has two close relatives: holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) and lemon basil (Ocimum xcitriodorum). However, sweet basil is the most common type of basil grown.
Two popular varieties of sweet basil are Thai basil (O. basilicum var. Thyrsiflora), used in Asian cooking, and lemon basil (Ocimum var. citriodorum), with white flowers and small leaves, with a pronounced citrus fragrance. .
Originally native to South Asia and the islands of the South Pacific, it is believed that the basil it was domesticated more than 5,000 years ago in western India, where it was considered a sacred plant. Traces of its history can be found in numerous texts from across Europe dating back to Ancient Greece during the reign of Alexander the Great. Basil made its way to England in the 16th century and to America in the 17th century.
Basil is an important economic crop, widely used for both culinary and medicinal uses. The United States, France, and the Mediterranean region are currently the largest producers of basil. This herb produces 100 tons of essential oil worldwide every year, and the basil industry is worth around $15 million dollars annually.
In his native India, the leaves were used in court for the accused to take an oath. In Italy, Mexico, and Romania, basil sprigs were given from men to women as a symbol of their love. Next we will analyze the basil properties and contraindications
.
Basil properties
The wide variety of medicinal uses of basil lies in its essential oil, which is made up of a combination of approximately 80 different compounds, the most prominent being eugenol, menthol, limonene, and anethole, which provide anti-inflammatory, cooling, antisepticand antibiotic action for basil herbal remedies.
Although the exact mechanism of action of basil is still not fully known, due to the high number of compounds involved, eugenol and anethole are known for their antiseptic and antispasmodic effects, and in combination with the cooling and analgesic Apart from menthol, basil can provide significant relief from digestive problems. The distinctive smell and calming effects of menthol can further reduce many of the associated symptoms, such as nausea and fever.
Basil’s nutritional value is remarkable, too: It’s touted as a source of vitamins A (retinol), B6 (folic acid), C (ascorbic acid), E, and K, plus minerals like calcium and iron.
Antimicrobial properties are also present in the meadowsweet and the thymewhile dill and fennel provide similar carminative benefits.
.
What are the benefits of basil?
Basil properties and contraindications Basil is not only useful for many culinary dishes, but also for numerous medicinal purposes. The main traditional uses of basil include:
Relieve indigestion. Basil’s carminative properties make it ideal for relieving flatulence and stomach discomfort.
Alleviate gastric infections and food poisoning. Basil has numerous antimicrobial properties, which help alleviate gastric problems, from gastritis even food poisoning.
In addition to its main health benefits, other medicinal actions of basil include:
Get rid of stomach flu Basil is known to relieve the symptoms of stomach flu.
stop hiccups Although not substantiated by science, it is believed that basil essential oil can stop the involuntary, spasmodic contractions of the diaphragm that constrict the throat and cause hiccups.
Reduce blood sugar levels. Due to its hypoglycemic properties, basil can lower blood sugar levels.
Prevent blood clots. with its properties anticoagulantsbasil can help prevent blood clots. It protects the heart and blood vessels and is considered an excellent cardiac tonic.
Basil benefits for the immune system. Holy Basil strengthens and modulates the immune system. Enhances cellular immunity and increases T-cell activity. Helps in the treatment of immune disorders such as asthma and allergies. It is said to improve cellular and humoral immunity.
Rich in vitamin K Basil is a very good source of vitamin K. Vitamin K helps blood clot normally, protects bones from fractures, prevents postmenopausal bone loss, and prevents calcification of the arteries.
Other health benefits of basil Helps treat chronic fatigue syndrome by reducing fatigue and improving stamina. Improves protein synthesis and motor activity. Basil is considered an anti-stress agent and therefore reduces the physical and psychological effects of stress. Reduces stress related to blood pressure. The dried and powdered leaves can be used to clean teeth. Helps prevent bad breath and massages the gums.
.
basil contraindications
Basil is probably safe to consume in most cases, especially in its culinary form. However, basil contains estragole, a chemical compound that can cause liver damage when consumed in excess.
Due to its hypoglycemic properties, those who suffer from diabetes they should exercise caution when consuming basil because it can lower blood sugar levels.
Basil also acts as a blood thinner, so consuming basil before surgery or taking certain blood pressure medications is not recommended.
Children should also limit their intake of basil because it contains estragole.
Women who are pregnant or nursing should also limit their intake of basil due to the presence of estragole. You have already seen the basil properties and contraindications. Any questions can be left below in the comment section.
.
Also know
Stevia: Benefits and Disadvantages
Benefits of asparagus for skin and hair
Orange peel properties for health
Celery: benefits and contraindications
Benefits of chontaduro, pejibaye or pixbae for health
Herbs to fight cancer
Remedies for Lung Collapse
video of the month