All about Basil

Basil is what I consider to be a "Super herb". It is a prolific grower no matter what variety you may favor (common culinary basil, lettuce leaf basil, holy basil, etc.) and provides great flavor to any meal.

Health Benefits

Research studies on basil have shown unique health-protecting effects in two basic areas: basil's flavonoids and volatile oils.

DNA Protection Plus Anti-Bacterial Properties

The unique array of active constituents called flavonoids found in basil provide protection at the cellular level. Orientin and vicenin are two water-soluble flavonoids that have been of particular interest in basil, and in studies on human white blood cells; these components of basil protect cell structures as well as chromosomes from radiation and oxygen-based damage.

In addition, basil has been shown to provide protection against unwanted bacterial growth. These "anti-bacterial" properties of basil are not associated with its unique flavonoids, but instead with its volatile oils, which contain estragole, linalool, cineole, eugenol, sabinene, myrcene, and limonene. Lab studies show the effectiveness of basil in restricting growth of numerous bacteria, including : Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli O:157:H7, Yersinia enterocolitica, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa.

Studies published in the February 2004 issue of Food Microbiology, have shown that washing produce in solution containing either basil or thyme essential oil at the very low concentration of just 1% resulted in dropping the number of Shigella, an infectious bacteria that triggers diarrhea and may cause significant intestinal damage, below the point at which it could be detected. While scientists use this research to try to develop natural food preservatives, it makes good sense to include basil and thyme in more of your recipes, particularly for foods that are not cooked such as salads. Adding fresh thyme and/or basil to your next vinaigrette will not only enhance the flavor of your fresh greens, but will help ensure that the fresh produce you consume is safe to eat. (March 25, 2004)

Fresh basil, after a few weeks, depending on how far along the herb is in its growth pattern will attempt to go to seed. You will know that the herb has begun to seed when you begin to see flowers forming in between the leaves. To slow down this process, you want to cut or pinch these flowers as soon as you see them.

You will of course will not be able to completely stop the process and you will come to find that your basil begins to taste rather bitter because all of its efforts are going to the seeds rather than to the leaves. Of course you can replant some of the seeds to produce more basil but you are left with these bitter leaves - what do you do? First - do not throw out the leaves, they are still useful - externally.

Researchers report that the herb Basil contains antibacterial compound. Consequently, essential oil of the herb is used by aromatherapists to treat skin conditions, including acne, as well as sluggish, congested complexions.

A trained aromatherapist can prepare a skin lotion for you using essential oil of basil. But anyone can enjoy the skin benefits of basil by using a strong tea as a bracing toner. To try it, do the following:

* Pack a handful of fresh basil, about three tablespoons, into a sturdy mug and pound lightly with a pestle to bruise the leaves and release the oils.
* Pour in a cup of hot water (not quite boiling), cover the mug, and let the tea steep until it is a clear grass green color, at least twenty minutes.
* Strain and discard the leaves.
* For a soft yet non-oily feel, splash your face with the tea just before applying moisturizer. (Don't dry off.) Your face will appreciate it, especially if the air you live in is polluted.

Some Basil leaves in a hot bath will leave you feeling wonderfully refreshed - all this from your basil - who knew!