Ocimum basilicum, or basil, contains vitamin K, manganese, copper, vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, folate, iron, omega-3 fats, and magnesium. Orientin and Vicenin, also found in basil, protect cells and chromosomes from radiation or oxygen based damage.
The natural oils in basil also have antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties. Beta-carotene, found in the leaves, is a very powerful anti-oxidant, and can help prevent or slow heart attacks, asthma, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis. Basil essential oil can kill off bacteria resistant to man-made antibiotics.
In fevers, boiling leaves with some cardamom in about two quarts of water, then mixed with sugar and milk, brings down temperature. An extract of basil leaves in fresh water should be given every 2 to 3 hours; between doses you can give sips of cold water. Chewing basil can relieve colds and flu symptoms. Water boiled with basil leaves can be taken as a tonic or used as a gargle when you have a sore throat. Pediatric complaints like colds, coughs, fever, diarrhea, and vomiting have been know to respond to treatment with the juice of basil leaves. Also if the rash associated with chickenpox is delayed, basil leaves with saffron will bring them to the surface more quickly.
Basil leaves can be used as an anti-stress agent. Chewing 12 basil leaves twice a day can prevent stress. It will purify the blood and help prevent many other common ailments. On insect bites, basil can be used preventatively and as a curative. A teaspoonful of the basil leaf juice taken every few hours is preventative. Rubbing the bites with juice can relieve the itching and swelling. Also a paste of the root is effective for treating the bites of insects and leeches.
For tooth problems, dry basil leaves in the sun and grind them into powder for a tooth cleansing powder. You can also mix with mustard oil to make herbal toothpaste. Both of these methods will counter bad breath and can be used to massage the gums, and help treat pyorrhea, and other dental health problems.
Basil is also a good headache remedy. Boil leaves in half a quart of water, cooking until half the liquid remains. Take a couple of teaspoons an hour with water to relieve your pain and swelling. You can also make a paste of basil leaves pounded with sandalwood to apply to your forehead to relieve headache and provide coolness in general.
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