Everybody loves basil, right? The smell is delightful and the way it can transform a recipe…yum! But when you think of basil do you think of basil essential oil? My guess is probably not, but maybe you should.
Basil essential oil has been used for centuries in Ayurvedic medicine. It’s a superstar for treating constipation, coughing, indigestion, diarrhea, and skin illnesses. This is due to the natural anti-inflammatory, antibiotic, antiviral, and diuretic properties it contains.
Basil (Ocimum Basiicum) is a common and popular culinary herb. This fresh-smelling herb can take an ordinary dish and greatly enhance the flavor. Not to mention, an aroma that will send the salivary glands into high gear. Basil is popular in many Mediterranean dishes and is used in salads, pasta, and specifically pesto sauce.
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The oil is steam distilled and is extracted from the leaves, seeds, and flowers of the basil plant. Like most other essential oils it can take pounds of plant material to create just one drop of the essential oil. Needless to say, a little goes a long, long way. The aroma is calming and refreshing. It can also vary according to where the plant was grown. There are hundreds of varieties of basil so you can expect to have different essences from different sources. You may even find hints of cinnamon, licorice, and citrus undertones.
For aching muscles and joints, basil essential oil can provide relief. For example, when you’ve worked out a bit too hard or just had a long tiring day. You can try soaking in a warm bath with Epsom salts, adding a few drops of lavender and basil essential oils. Additionally, you could make a massage oil by adding a few drops of basil essential oil to a carrier oil like sweet almond or coconut oil and rub it into sore muscles and joints.
Anxiety, feelings of overwhelm, stress and fatigue can all be helped with the use of basil essential oil. For centuries basil has been used in aromatherapy for relieving fear and anxiety. For this purpose, diffusing this oil in the air reduces stress and calms the soul. Moreover, you can put a little of the diluted oil on your temples or neck. As a result, you’ll get relief and enhanced mental strength and clarity.
Basil essential oil fights pathogens with its impressive antibacterial qualities, making it a good addition to your cold and flu season arsenal. Notably, diffusing it in the air smells delightful and furthermore protects your family from becoming ill.
In the case that a cold or flu is already a problem, basil can assist with relieving symptoms. Simply add one or two drops to a warm bath. Additionally, you can add it to your homemade vapor rub for relieving congestion and coughs. For this purpose, just add a few drops each of eucalyptus and basil essential oils to a carrier oil and rub on your chest to clear nasal passages.
Because of its impressive antibacterial properties, basil essential oil is a good addition to a first aid kit. In the event that you have a wound, simply apply the diluted oil to wounds to prevent infection.
In addition to helping to prevent infections, basil essential oil is good for reducing pain from injuries, bruises and even when recovering from surgery. With this in mind, try adding a few drops to your arnica gel for added pain relief.
Make your own basil pesto. 2 cups fresh basil leaves (no stems), 2 tablespoons pine nuts or walnuts, 2 large cloves garlic, ½ cup extra-virgin olive oil, ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese Add all ingredients to a food processor and blend together for a delicious pesto sauce.
Basil essential oil promotes healthy digestion. For instance, you can try incorporating it into your cuisine, not only for your taste buds but as an aid for your digestive tract as well.
In particular, you can make basil cooking oil by adding 20 drops of basil essential oil to half a cup of organic extra virgin olive oil. In this case, you can use the oil in your Italian dishes or stir-fries. Additionally, this spruced-up oil can be used as a substitute in your homemade salad dressings.
For stress relief and to purify the air in your home, add 2 drops to a diffuser. Truly, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by the wonderful smell!
Adding basil essential oil to a carrier oil can be useful for relieving insect bites, using as a massage oil, or applied to acne for healing and prevention. Again, just add 10-15 drops to an ounce of carrier oil. To use, apply the solution to a cotton ball for spot treatments or massage into achy joints and muscles.
Making your own cleaning products is easy and to be sure, basil essential oil is a go-to for a fresh addition to your products. Furthermore, basil EO can add an extra antibacterial punch. Try making a linen spray to combat dust mites. Simply spray on your mattress when you launder your sheets.
Spray your mattress and bedding with an essential oil solution. Here’s what you’ll need to make your own:
Mix ingredients in your glass bottle and be sure to shake well before each use. Spray on and around your bed and bedding weekly. As a result, you’ll keep those pesky dust mites away.
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The use of essential oils is a time-honored approach to bolstering and strengthening the body and as a natural, chemical-free way to treat disease. Always keep in mind that essential oils can trigger side effects and skin irritations.
I am not a doctor and do not claim to be. I am a seeker of pure, healthful living. The information on this website has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. None of these statements are intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Always consult with your medical practitioner or other qualified healthcare providers.
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