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:: What Is Basil? Originally native to India, Asia, and Africa, basil was held to be a sacred and noble herb. In fact, the word “basil” comes from the ancient Greek “basilikhon” which means “royal." Today, Ocimum basilicum (the scientific name for basil) grows in many places around the world. Many people even grow basil in their kitchens or gardens. This fragrant herb is used as a seasoning in a variety of dishes, and plays a key role in Italian and Thai cuisine. There are more than 60 varieties of basil, with sweet basil being one of the most widely used. The herb has rounded leaves that are often pointed. It’s a bright green plant, although some varieties have hints of purple or red in their leaves. Sweet basil has a very strong smell and a recognizable flavor. Different varieties of basil offer slightly different flavors. For instance, lemon basil has a tangy lemon taste, while mint basil has a refreshing minty taste. Basil makes a colorful and flavorful addition to many dishes. It can also provide some serious health benefits. |
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:: Health Benefits Basil contains many vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants such as lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin. Many of its health benefits come from these antioxidants, as well as its essential oils. These compounds mostly disappear during the drying process, so opt for fresh basil when possible to gain the most benefits. Health benefits of basil include: Reduction of oxidative stress. Basil is full of antioxidants. Sweet basil contains a compound called eugenol, and lime and lemon basils have limonene. These antioxidants, along with others such as anthocyanins and beta-carotene, help to fight free radicals in the body that can otherwise lead to cell damage and increase your risk for a variety of health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes. Blood sugar regulation. Some studies suggest that adding basil to your diet may help reduce high blood sugar levels and help lessen long-term effects of high blood sugar. Heart disease prevention. The eugenol in basil can block calcium channels, which may help to lower blood pressure. Its essential oils can help lower your cholesterol and triglycerides. Basil also contains magnesium, which can help improve your blood flow by allowing your muscles and blood vessels to relax. Reduced inflammation. Essential oils in basil, including eugenol, linalool, and citronellol, help fight inflammation in your body. These anti-inflammatory properties help lower your risk of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. heart disease, and bowel issues. Protection against infections. Basil has antibacterial properties. Its oils may help fight bacteria if you have respiratory, urinary, abdominal, or skin infections. Improves asthma symptoms. Early studies show that holy basil may reduce your airway swelling if you have asthma. But one of these studies relied on animals. And two clinical trials, which found swollen airway improvement in those taking holy basil, didn’t include a comparison group not taking holy basil. While helping with breathing and reducing irritation of airways is a common use of holy basil, more research is needed to confirm its benefits. Improves immune system function. A traditional ayurveda belief is that holy basil improves overall immunity when taken on an empty stomach. Researchers verified this idea in a small study. The results showed improved immune system benchmarks, including an increase in the levels of T cells, which are blood cells that fight infections. May reduce damage from some types of stress. Holy basil is an adaptogen, a substance that guards against physical and mental stress . Studies suggest it can protect you from the effects of: * Certain industrial chemicals * Heavy metals * Physical strain * Extremely cold temperatures * Poor diet * Low physical activity * Depression |
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:: Health Benifits |
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Basil has many vital nutrients. These include: Calcium Vitamin A Vitamin K Manganese Magnesium Iron Zinc Potassium |
In 2 tablespoons(5grams) of fresh chopped basil, you’ll find: Calories: 1 Protein: 0.2 grams Fat: 0 grams Carbohydrates: 0.1 grams Fiber: 0.1 grams Sugar: 0 grams |
:: References |
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