A deliciously fragrant plant native to South Asia and India, basil can bring lots of flavor to many dishes, from meats to desserts. Queen of Mediterranean and Asian gourmet cuisines, it is also called the “royal plant” or “royal herb” for its multiple health benefits. In India, its use dates back more than 5,000 years.
Multi-faceted basil
There are over 150 species of basil plants in the world!
This pretty plant with rounded, shiny leaves has a scent reminiscent of a mixture of anise, nutmeg and clove.
An excellent source of fiber and minerals, it is notably rich in iron, calcium, copper, magnesium, phosphorus and manganese. As for vitamins, it provides a good dose of A, B, C, D, K and E.
A medicinal plant par excellence
According to some, basil is the ideal plant to always have on hand for medicinal health care. Its benefits are as diverse as they are appreciated. It is said to be a soothing herb that’s perfect at the end of a day, for better sleep. More and more in-depth research tends to attribute great benefits to it in terms of better control of diabetes.
The polyphenols it contains also prove to be powerful antioxidants which can contribute to the delay of cellular aging and prevent the appearance of certain cancers and certain cardiovascular diseases while having a possible beneficial action on lowering blood pressure.
Happy tummy
Basil is also good for the stomach. Thanks to its antispasmodic and anti-inflammatory properties, it can help calm bloating and soothe certain digestive disorders such as indigestion, nausea, or heartburn. It can also help with sluggish digestion.
Basil can be consumed in multiple ways depending on our needs. In an infusion, it gives off a sweet scent and is perfect at the end of a meal. Boil three to five grams of leaves and finish a hearty meal with a nice hot cup of this divine potion.
Goodbye to fever!
To soothe a fever, a traditional Ayurvedic recipe suggests mixing holy basil (a species native to India), ginger, black pepper, and honey. It is even believed to have a calming effect on certain respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis and asthma.
Basil essential oil and balm
As an essential oil, it can be used to make good ointments, particularly against insect bites.
These ointments may also have the property of helping to reduce muscle pain or cramps. It is a good ally for athletes, helping to calm muscle congestion caused by lactic acid, the source of muscle aches.
All-around cooking uses
In cooking, basil can be generously incorporated into salads, or in a dish of cherry tomatoes and cottage cheese, for example. It is ideal in a tomato carpaccio, on pasta with olive oil, in a dipping sauce for raw vegetables. You can also make a pesto or add it to your homemade vinaigrette.
Basil is an everyday companion that’s good for us and also wonderfully flavors our daily dishes. Clearly, we could use more of this wonderful herb!
Source : Les vertus du basilic