Beyond pesto: The healing benefits of basil

I love fresh herbs, and I had big plans this spring. I even wrote a blogpost about the herbs I chose to grow this year. But I ended up with mixed results. Some of the herbs I planted didn’t do so great. My oregano was a complete no show, and the cilantro struggled once the heat was on. But one herb that went gangbusters was my basil plants. I had a good crop. And while it’s yummy for pesto, pizza, sauces, and sandwiches, I was curious about basil’s medicinal benefits. Read on for just a few of the healing properties I found for this common herb.

Boosts Immunity

Keeping your immune system at its best is especially important throughout the cold and flu season, and even more so this year. And if you have small children or a demanding job where getting sick is going to derail you, adding basil to your daily juice or smoothie can help support a healthy immune system. It’s one of the easiest ways to get an immune boost, especially if your juice or smoothie is already fortified with immune-boosting vitamins from fresh fruits or vegetables.

Relieves Pain

Basil can help with minor muscle aches and pains, and tension headaches. The best way to do this is by infusing oils and lotions with fresh basil and applying it directly on the area. If using topically isn’t an option, consider using dehydrated basil in capsules.

Reduces Inflammation

Basil’s essential oils are known to inhibit inflammation, and can ease headaches, joint problems, and tension throughout the body. To reduce inflammation, basil can be taken as needed in food or tea, or in a capsule. You can even mix basil with other herbs. One example is turmeric, where combined it can help fight inflammation.

Make the Most of Basil’s Healing Properties

For medicinal use, basil is like many other medicinal herbs. Using fresh or in tea are two ways to get the best effects, but there are other ways to have it on hand. You can infuse oils or dehydrate fresh basil. Store dried herbs in a cool, dry, and dark location in an airtight container to maintain potency.

Keep Basil on hand

Keep basil on hand for your favorite dishes and natural medicine recipes, and you’ll benefit from it’s great flavor and health benefits!

This information is presented as entertainment and not meant to diagnose or treat any illness or disease. Always consult your medical professional before adding anything new to your diet or regimen.

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