(It`s
more than a spice)
Ocimium basillicum also known as basil is a member of the
mint family. It is known as culinary spice and it is used often in the Mediterranean
kitchen.
Basil was used traditionally in burial rituals, it was planted on graves i ancient Persia, Malaysia and Greece.
There is a lot of ritualistic use of basil in history. Ancient Egyptians believed that it opens the gates to heaven. In Jewish lore was used while fasting to give you strength. In Mexican lore it was believed to ward the house against evil. In some African believes it was used to relieve the pain of scorpion sting.
Basil is a plant that has been used in traditional medicine also, especially in traditional Chinese medicine and Ayurvedic medicine. Ancient Romans used basil to relive gas and counteract poisoning. The name "snuff" was also used for basil because it was believed that smelling the plant can relieve headache. In Japan was used for the treatment of common cold.
Basil contains many chemicals that are beneficial to the
body. It has antibacterial and anti- inflammatory effect to the human body. Basil
is a good source of vitamin C, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron.
In traditional medicine it was used for:
-
Stomach and intestines infections.
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Cough medicine.
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Urinary infections.
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Skin infections and irritation.
-
Joints pain.
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Stress and tension.
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Blood circulation
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Worms
-
Loss of appetite
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Better lactation
Caution:
When taken in smaller amounts basil is safe. But if it is taken in larger
amounts for medicinal use has some side effects. If you are pregnant, you have
low blood sugar; have bleeding disorder please consult with your doctor before
use.
You may also like my article IMPROVE YOUR HEALTH WITH BASIL (5 easy to make recipes)
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