Basil is an herb in the mint family. It adds flavor to meals, and its nutrients may provide health benefits.

Sweet basil plays a role in many Mediterranean, and particularly Italian, cuisines. It forms the basis of pesto and adds a distinctive flavor to salads, pasta, pizza, and other dishes. Indonesian, Thai, and Vietnamese cuisines also feature this herb.

In the diet, sweet basil can provide vitamins, minerals, and a range of antioxidants. It’s essential oil may also have medicinal benefits.

Sweet basil is available in many grocery stores, while other varieties have different tastes and fragrances.

Active ingredients: 

The most important essential oil of basil are eugenol, chavicol and terpenoids.

Essential oils of basil are α-Pinene, β-Pinene, Methyl chavicol, 1,8 cineole, Llinalool, Ocimene, Borneol, Geraneol, B-Caryphyllone, n-Cinnamate and Eugenol.

The main fatty acid composition of basil species are Stearic acid, Oleic acid, Palmitic acid, Linoleic acid, Myristic acid, α-Linolenic acid, Carpic acid, Lauric acid and Arachidonic acid.

The most important antioxidant compounds of basil are caffeic, vanillic, rosmarinic acids, quercetin, rutin, apigenin, chlorogenic and p-hydroxybenzoic.

The nutrient content in 2 tablespoons (5 grams) of fresh chopped basil is:

• Calories: 1 
• Protein: 0.2 grams
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0.1 grams
• Fiber: 0.1 grams
• Sugar: 0 grams

Basil also has many other vital nutrients in it. These nutrients include:

• Calcium
• Vitamin A 
• Vitamin K
• Manganese
• Magnesium
• Iron
• Zinc
• copper
• Potassium

Benefits:

Basil leaves are used in a variety of culinary preparations. In addition to the flavour, the culinary herb is said to preserve and enhance the properties of the food. From healthy gut to stronger immunity, benefits of basil leaves are quite a lot. Here are some you may not have known.

1. Good for Digestion

Basil fortifies the digestive and nervous system and can be a good remedy for headaches and insomnia. The eugenol present in the leaves ensures anti-inflammatory action in the digestive tract. Basil helps balance acid within the body and restores the body’s proper pH level.

2. Anti-inflammatory

Basil and its strong anti-inflammatory properties can prove to be a cure to a variety of diseases and disorders. The powerful essential oils, including eugenol, citronellol and linalool, help lower inflammation through their enzyme inhibiting properties. The anti-inflammatory properties of basil may help lower risk of heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel conditions. Consumption of basil could also soothe fever, headache, sore throat, cold, cough, flu. 

3. Fights free radical activity

Basil leaves contain a range of natural antioxidants, which can help protect body tissues against free radical damage. Free radicals are unstable atoms. To become stable, they take electrons from other atoms and form chains. These chains of free radicals cause oxidative stress to the body and cause more damage to the cells. To reduce the oxidative stress in the body, one must up the intake of antioxidants. Basil contains two important water-soluble flavonoid antioxidants, known as orientin and viceninare. These potent antioxidants strengthen immune system, protect cellular structure, DNA and delay effects of skin ageing.

4. Skin Benefits

Basil’s powerful oil helps cleanse the skin. The excellent skin cleanser is perfect for those with oily skin. It also helps remove dirt and impurities that clog pores. Make a paste of basil leaves with rose water. Apply the paste on your face and let it sit for 20 minutes. Wash with cold water. The strong anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of basil would help prevent formation of acne.

5. Fights Depression

Basil’s essential oil may help manage depression and anxiety too. The herb is believed to stimulate neurotransmitters that regulate the hormones responsible for inducing happiness and energy. Basil is considered as a powerful adaptogen or an anti-stress agent. Its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties help manage stress too.

6. Diabetes Management

Consumption of basil could result in slow release of sugar in the blood, which is very essential for diabetics. The essential oil present in basil also helps cut down triglyceride and cholesterol levels, which is a persistent risk factor amongst diabetics.

7. Supports Liver Function and Helps Detoxify the Body

Basil has strong detox properties that may do wonders for your liver health. Liver is a very essential organ for the body as it plays a crucial role in metabolism. Basil may help prevent fat build-up in the liver and keep your liver healthy.

8. Promote healthy gut

Basil also helps restore the body’s natural pH levels and feeds healthy bacteria within the gut microflora. A healthy gut flora increases immunity and promotes healthy digestion.

9. Heals an Upset Tummy

The essential volatile oil of basil has been seen as a traditional remedy to treat a variety of tummy problems in addition to indigestion. Consuming basil could help reduce bloating and water retention. It can even stimulate loss of appetite and could cure acid reflux as well.