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What is basil?

The word basil comes from the two Greek words basilokos (royal) and basileus (king). Its Latin name is Ocimum basilicum.

Basil is a plant that is a member of the Lamiaceae family. The plant is an annual herb native to tropical Asia and Africa, but today it is cultivated in family herb gardens throughout the world. The oil produced by steam distilling the plant has a light, spicy smell with a camphoric undertone.

Basil's medical properties

Many physicians use basil oil to treat respiratory problems, such as asthma, or to relieve sinus congestion.

The oil also has stomach soothing qualities that help the body dispel gas or stimulate appetite. Basil oil aids in opening up and clearing the head thereby easing headaches. It can also act as a bug repellent and take the sting out of mosquito bites or wasp stings. It is also used to stimulate circulation and relieve menstrual cramps.

Basil's use in cosmetics

Basil oil has the ability to improve skin tone and revive dull looking skin with a rosy glow. This is because the oil stimulates circulation. It also helps control acne, reduce cellulite, and brings the shine back to dull hair by stimulating the scalp.

Basil's effect on the emotions

Basil oil can either sedate or stimulate the human body. The sedative action can help insomniacs sleep, and can ward off stress and anxiety attacks. The stimulating action can help fight mental fatigue and improve memory. It is known to be used to treat melancholy and depression. Basil oil is generally good for the entire nervous system.

What to watch for: Pregnant women should avoid using basil oil because of the stimulating circulation qualities. Individuals who have seizure disorders need to avoid it as well. If you have sensitive skin it may cause some irritation.

More about basil and its oil around the Web:

Basil - Wikipedia - Interesting read on its history and cultivation, including information on basil's use as a remedy for disease, it's place in ancient religious rituals, literary references, with additional resources to further information.

Basil Essential Oil - Good overview of basil's curative properties, related recipes as an aid to digestion, safety tips.

Spice Pages: Basil - Facts, information and history, with a discussion on basil oil's medicinal properties, including homemade recipes and instructions, photos gallery, and an extensive list of related resources.

Garden Guides - Basil - Planting, growing and harvesting instructions, with storing tips and a list of popular varieties.

How to Grow Basil - Basic instruction for growing basil from seed, with more on its history and folklore.

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This information is intended as reference and not as medical advice.
All treatment decisions should be made by medical professionals.