Benefits of Basil
Basil’s health properties are so potent that it is showing promise as a possible protector against radiation damage due to powerful flavonoids orientin and vicenin which help to shield your cell structures against oxygen damage.
Basil oil can be applied to wounds to help prevent bacterial infections. Arthritis sufferers may also find relief from basil due to its powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
Basil oil or leaves made into a tea may also assist in the following:
Constipation, stomach cramps, indigestion, cold, flu, asthma, whooping cough, bronchitis and sinus infections.
If you love pesto, then you will be impressed with its heart healthy quality, particularly if you make it yourself. Pesto, made with basil, organic olive oil, walnuts (or any of the other nuts mentioned earlier), garlic, celtic sea salt and lemon juice would have to be one of the most valuable food recipes around for heart health. Basil also has excellent stress relieving properties.
Basil is a very good source of vitamin A, magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium and vitamin C – all good for heart health.
Pesto Recipe
5 small handfuls of walnuts
½ cup organic olive oil (this can be adjusted)
2-4 cloves garlic
6 cups of basil leaves
Pinch of celtic sea salt
Juice of half lemon
Blend or process together for 2 minutes.
Refreshing Basil Tea
Place 2 teaspoons of dried basil leaves or 1 tablespoon of fresh basil leaves in 2-3 cups of boiling water and and leave in a teapot for 15 minutes. You may add honey for sweetness.
