Basil came to Europe from Asia. Once the Indians revered it as a sacred plant, equating to the lotus. Today, basil is a widespread condiment that is not only added to food, but also used as a medicine.
Basil is an annual leafy plant with a tetrahedral, branched stem. The stem reaches a height of sixty centimeters. Basil leaves are small, dense, pointed with jagged edges. The plant blooms with white, purple or pink flowers. The ground part of the plant is fragrant - the aroma of basil spreads even without tearing branches or leaves.
Basil leaves are mainly used in cooking. They are used fresh, dry; crushed or put into dishes whole. They are used in soups, salads, sauces, meat and fish dishes, in canning and stewing vegetables.
Besides cooking, basil is also used in folk medicine. Its healing properties are determined by the essential oils contained in the leaves, inflorescences and stems, which give such a bright aroma to the plant. They include Evengol, Linalool, Meylhavinol, Camphor and some other aromatic substances. In addition to oils, basil contains mineral and tannins, phytoncides, simple sugars, carotene, vitamins B2, C, PP, rutin. The varied composition of basil makes it possible to use it in medicine. Camphor stimulates the heart, helps to restore breathing, phytoncides have an antibacterial effect, carotene promotes the formation of vitamin A.
Basil has antiseptic, wound healing, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic effects. Thanks to the vitamins it contains, it strengthens the walls of blood vessels, tones up and is used as a general tonic during the recovery of the body after surgery or diseases.
Basil can be used for respiratory or lung problems. Its essential oils help ease breathing and reduce inflammation. Thanks to its antibacterial action, it eliminates the very cause of inflammation - infection. The plant is used to alleviate the condition of cancer patients and to reduce the negative effects of smoking.
Oral infections are also susceptible to the action of basil, which fights bacteria by reducing gum inflammation, tooth decay, and plaque. Because of the antioxidants and vitamins in the plant, basil is able to protect the cardiovascular system from free radicals and relieve people from the effects of stress. Evengol, found in the leaves, lowers blood pressure.
Basil leaves and stems are often used as an infusion taken internally. To prepare it, you will need to dry and grind the plant. Pour the resulting mixture with boiling water (in a ratio of one to one) and let it brew for an hour. Strain the infusion and apply internally, externally, and rinse.
