Basil oil is extracted from the leaves and seeds of the basil plant. Basil is herb that has been used since ancient times because of its medicinal properties. Basil oil contains several nutrients that offer health benefits for the human body. Basil oil is a rich source of Vitamin A, magnesium, calcium, iron and potassium. Basil oil also has anti-inflammatory, anti- bacterial as well as anti-viral properties. It is thus used as a perfect remedy to cure several problems. Basil oil is even used as an ingredient in several dishes of differ cuisines across the world. Basil oil has a unique flavor and aroma and so enhances the taste of any dish it is added to. Basil oil is used extensively for culinary purposes in the Mediterranean region and in the Italian cuisine.

Health benefits of Basil Oil

• Enhances skin health: Basil oil can be topically massaged into the skin to give the skin a healthier look. The application of basil oil helps to remove the dead skin cells and get rid of dull looking and unhealthy skin. It is used in many skin care products as basil oil is known to improve the tone of the skin. The application of basil oil also helps to treat various symptoms of acne. In addition, the use of basil oil helps to protect the skin from various types of infections.

• Aids digestion: Basil oil is a digestive tonic. Basil oil has carminative properties and so can treat indigestion, constipation, stomach cramps and flatulence. The consumption of basil oil provides immediate relief from gas in the stomach and intestines. Basil oil improves digestion and helps the absorption of essential nutrients from food in a better manner. Basil oil also has colic properties and thus aids in alleviating stomach pains as well as bowel pains.
• Helps to treat cold and whooping cough: Basil oil has anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties and so can be effectively used to treat cough, cold, influenza and fever. Basil oil is also anti-spasmodic in nature and can be effectively used to treat the symptoms of whooping cough.
• Improves respiratory health: Basil oil with its anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties keeps the respiratory tract free from infections and reduces inflammation in the air passages. This helps to prevent acute respiratory problems like asthma, bronchitis and sinus infection.

• Helps to treat infections: Basil oil has anti-bacterial properties and so fights bacteria that attack the body and cause infections. Thus basil oil is used to treat several skin infections and other infections that can affect the various body parts. Basil oil also prevents infections that can take place because of wounds, burns or cuts.
• Relieves stress disorders: Basil oil has a soothing and calming properties and is used effectively in aromatherapy. Basil oil has a refreshing effect when it is smelled or consumed. Thus basil oil can be used to effectively treat nervous tension, mental fatigue, migraine and depression. Regular use of basil oil provided mental strength and helps to relieve stress and its related disorders.
• Provides relief from pain: Basil oil is a natural analgesic and so provides relief from pain. Because of this property of basil oil, it is often used to provide relief from pains associated with arthritis, injuries, sprains, wounds etc.

• Promotes eye health: Basil oil is known to be ophthalmic in nature. The use of basil oil provides instant relief from bloodshot eyes. Basil oil when used can also improve eyesight and help to cure several problems which are associated with poor vision. The use of this oil also prevents cataracts.
• Improves blood circulation: Basil oil helps to improve the circulation of blood and helps in the development of new red blood cells because of high content of iron and Vitamin A. The use of basil oil ensures that good quality and oxygenated blood reaches all the body organs so that these can function in a proper manner.
• Promotes bone health: Basil oil is a rich source of calcium. The consumption of basil oil provides the body with the required quantity of calcium which is essential to maintain healthy and strong bones. The use of basil oil thus prevents bone related problems like osteoporosis, spondylitis and even bone and joint pains.

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