Essential Mind-Body Benefits of Basil

Amy Taylor February 06, 2014

Isn’t it amazing how basil can dramatically enhance the flavour of various dishes, from soups to pastas and even stir fries? But aside from its culinary uses, basil has some serious mind-and-body benefits too – from busting stress to promoting health and preventing some cancers.

Here are some health benefits of basil:

Heart Health and Cancer Prevention

Basil is a home to many of the most powerful antioxidants such as beta-carotene and other carotenoids that protect cells from free radical damage and cholesterol. A study published in the Journal of Advanced Pharmacy Education & Research found that ethanol extract ocimum bacilicum in basil had more antioxidant activity than standard antioxidants. The herb is also an excellent source of magnesium which promotes cardiovascular health by improving blood flow.

Stress Relief

Tensed and stressed? A cup of basil tea might be the solution. Holy basil has anti-anxiety effects as it contains phytochemicals that studies suggest may lower the levels of stress hormone cortisol.

PMS Fix

A little more than 2 cups of chopped fresh basil leaves or one tablespoon of fresh basil provides 10 per cent of your daily iron needs. Eating it during your period may help replenish lost iron in your system caused by menstruation.

Anti-inflammatory Properties

A study present at the Royal Pharmaceutical Society’s annual event revealed that extracts of O. tenuiflorm (Holy basil) reduce swelling by up to 73 per cent, 24 hours after treatment. One of the herb’s volatile oils, eugenol, can help block the enzyme cyclooxygenase (COX) in the body that anti-inflammatory medicines like aspirin and ibuprofen are designed to block.

Protection from Ageing

Research presented during the British Pharmaceutical Conference (BPC) found that basil has properties that can help prevent the harmful effects of ageing. Extracts from holy basil have been shown to destroy dangerous molecules and prevent damage caused by free radicals in the liver, brain and heart.

Antibacterial Properties

Basil has also antibacterial properties. When applied to the skin or surfaces, basil fights back against bacteria that cause skin problems. For instance, the oil from this herb may combat bacteria that cause pimples, according to a study published in the International Journal of Cosmetic Science. What’s more, it also holds promise against dry skin, acne and psoriasis. Meanwhile, a 2004 study published in the Food Microbiology journal suggests that basil or thyme essential oil at very low concentration resulted to a reduction in Shigella – infectious bacteria that trigger diarrhoea and cause intestinal damage.

DNA Protection

Basil contains orientin and vicenin – water-soluble flavonoids that protect cell structures as well as chromosomes from radiation and oxygen-based damage.

Dried basil may come in handy but fresh basil is the best! Try to grow some in your garden. After all, it’s very easy to grow basil. To retain most of its nutrients, add basil at the last stages of cooking as too much heat could cause its phytochemicals to disappear.