Basil Leaves, Basil Oils, Basil Water, Holy Basil Extract - All about Basil

Basil or Ocimum basilicum belong to the category of leaves that is fragrant and is a popular herb in the kitchen.



It is used for an array of recipes, though pesto is one popular dish. The leaves are round and resemble a peppermint. Basil leaves are commonly used as a seasoning. The leaves of basil exhibit therapeutic effects and this is attributed to the flavonoids and volatile oils.



Two kinds of water soluble flavonoids, orientin and vicenin are seen in basil leaves. They act as a shield at the cellular level and protects the chromosomes form free radical injury and radiation.

Basil exhibits anti bacterial activity and this is attributed to the presence of volatile oils. These oils contain linalool, limonene, estragole, cineole, myrcene, sabinene and eugenol.



It inhibits the growth of Escherichia coli, Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aerugiosa in vitro. Pathogenic bacteria utilized in the making of antibiotics are retarded. Oils in thyme and basil decrease the growth of Shigella, which results in gastro intestinal disturbance, causing diarrhea. Addition of basil and thyme are recommended in raw foods, such as salads, due to their anti bacterial property.

Basil Herb - Effects and Anti inflammatory Benefits of Basil

Inclusion of basil leaves in vinaigrette is healthy and makes it safe for human consumption. The enzyme cyclooxygenase is inhibited by the volatile oil, eugenol present in basil. Over the counter drugs, such as non-steroidal anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS), namely, acetaminophen and aspirin also function as anti inflammatory agents, by retarding the activity of the same enzyme. Thus, eugenol provides relief to conditions, such as inflammatory bowel conditions and arthritis, proving the anti inflammatory nature of basil leaves.

Beta carotene or pro-vitamin A, the precursor of vitamin A, is seen in abundance in basil. The antioxidant effect of vitamin A, helps in protecting the epithelial cells. It also acts as a free radical scavenger. Free radicals are the causative factor for many ailments, such as, osteoarthritis, cancer, asthma an so on.



Oxidation of cholesterol results in the formation of plaques, resulting in atherosclerosis. This proves the cardiovascular benefits of basil.
Magnesium in basil also supports cardiac health. It helps in the relaxation of blood vessels and muscles, thereby, preventing muscle spasms and enhancing the flow of blood. Cardiac arrhythmia is prevented. Basil is a good source of calcium, vitamin C, potassium and iron. Basil leaves are green in color, though red and purple colors are also common. Varieties of basil include sweet basil, anise basil, cinnamon basil, lemon basil and so on.