Essential oils such as basil oil have been extracted from different types of plants for many centuries and still remain a popular component in food, drinks and for treating specific ailments.
What Is Basil Oil?
Basil essential oil is extracted from the leaves and seeds of the Omicum basillicum plant. The basil plant is categorized under herbs and holds value as a medicinal plant.
While the herb and its oil are well known in Europe, India and Southeast Asia, the oil is also extensively used for culinary purposes in the Mediterranean region and has found a great place in Italian pasta and salads.
Uses of Basil Oil
Basil oil, a favorite in most parts of the world, is known to cure many ailments in humans especially when it comes to digestive issues.
The many uses of basil oil include the following:
1. Cosmetic agent
Being a natural component, basil oil is used in cosmetics to restore the glow back to the dull looking skin by reviving the moisture content and promoting a more youthful look.
Regularly applying basil oil topically can improve overall skin immunity and also prevent acne.
2. Anti-microbial agent
Basil oil has numerous medicinal value and works as a potential anti-microbial agent to treat specific infections. Extracted basil oil has been found effective against many strains of bacteria, fungi and yeast, especially with the potential pathogen from E. coli.
3. Hair care and treatment agent
Application of basil oil on the scalp can increase circulation and stimulate any dull hair follicles to promote hair growth. The immediate warm sensation after application of basil oil also helps to sooth the scalp and induce relaxation to the body and mind.
Additionally, basil oil also does wonders for an itchy scalp. Massaging basil oil coupled with coconut oil can combat an itchy scalp and relieve you from uncomfortable symptoms.
4. Reducing any malodor
The anti-microbial properties present in the oil acts as a powerful inhibitor to malodor. Therefore, basil essential oil is a popular component that is often used by the aromatic industry to make room fresheners.
5. Digestive support
Using basil oil in small doses can help to protect against damage from ulcers and colitis. The gastroprotective effects of the oil further stimulate and improve overall digestive function.
Other uses of basil oil include the following:
- Used in massage therapies for body relaxation.
- Used as a culinary additive for its distinct fragrance.
- Prevents mosquito bites by acting as a repellent.
Benefits of Basil Oil
Basil oil is a good source of vitamin A, magnesium, potassium and iron, which in synergy account for several health benefits.
The following are various health benefits of basil oil:
1. Lifts spirits
Considering the holy aspect of the basil plant, basil essential oil is known as “renewal oil” as it helps in dealing with anxiousness and fear. The oil works to relieve the day’s tension and calms the heart down to leave you feeling relaxed and in uplifted spirits instead.
2. Improves immunity
Basil oil is known to boost the immune system. Consumption of basil oil or the leaves on a regular basis will enhance immunity and help to protect the body against the common cold and flu.
3. Eases tired muscles
Basil oil is commonly included in many massage therapies as it relaxes the tensed muscles in the body.
When tired muscles are massaged with basil and coconut oil, one can feel immense relief in the muscles. This benefit is mainly because of the anti-inflammatory properties of this essential oil.
4. Prevents nausea and vomiting
Basil essential oil is well known for treating motion sickness, vomiting and nausea. The ingredients in the essential oil in synergy restores the body’s balance to prevent the above conditions from occurring.
5. Purifies blood and eliminates toxin
Consuming basil leaves with a concoction of lemon juice will eliminate all toxins and purify the blood, which will eventually lead to a healthy and fit body.
Other benefits of basil essential oil include the following:
- Increases focus and concentration while studying.
- Relieves localized body stress like joint pain and muscle pain.
Side Effects of Basil Oil
Despite being natural and so beneficial, basil essential oil might not suit all individuals and a patch test is always recommended before using for the first time.
- Basil oil should be kept out of reach from children at all times.
- Pregnant women and nursing mothers are not advised to use basil oil in any form.
- It is advisable to use minimum amounts of basil oil as it can cause or trigger skin irritations.
The content of this Website is for informational purposes only, is general in nature and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, and does not constitute professional advice. The information on this Website should not be considered as complete and does not cover all diseases, ailments, physical conditions, or their treatment. You should consult with your physician before beginning any exercise, weight loss, or health care program and/or any of the beauty treatments.
References:
Uses for Basil Essential Oil: Stop Inflammation, Bacteria, & Mosquitoes. (2018, July 03). Retrieved from https://drericz.com/uses-for-basil-essential-oil/
