Basic seasoning of Italian cuisine, basil – or basil, in Italian – is increasingly being associated with a series of health benefits.
But what is the use of Basil? What are its properties for fitness and health?
In addition to its gastronomic function, as a seasoning frequently used in various foods, it also protects the body against bacterial attacks, stimulates memory, improves skin and vision and relieves stress.
Known since Ancient Greece, the spice also performs the functions of detoxifying, antiseptic and helps to restore the body from all types of infections.
Native to India and other tropical areas of Asia, the herb contains a wide variety of essential oils, such as eugenol, citronellol, linalool, citral, limonene e terpineol.
These compounds are known for their basil anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial.
In addition, basil also offers essential nutrients for the body and mind, such as vitamins A, C and K, as well as manganese, copper, calcium, iron and omega-3 fats.
It is a great source of magnesium, which provides better blood flow. Let's get to know the main benefits of basil for health?
It's time to understand what this special food is for.
1. Treating colds
One of the benefits of basil is improving the immune system. Its leaves are used to treat colds. It is recommended to chew them to relieve colds and flu. The strong antibiotic properties of basil protect the body against bacteria and the infections caused by them.
2. Cough relief
Basil is an ingredient in syrups and expectorants. Sore throats can also be relieved by gargling with water boiled with the plant's leaves. The herb is also effective for other respiratory problems, such as asthma and bronchitis.
3. Improve the immune system
Improving the immune system is also one of the benefits of basil. Studies show that several chemical components of the plant increase antibody production by up to 20%. By strengthening the immune system, the plant protects against asthma, allergies, arthritis, cancer, flu and colds. For best results, it is recommended to give preference to fresh, not dried leaves.
4. Anti-stress
Basil leaves are also touted for reducing stress. Experts recommend chewing 10 to 12 basil leaves, twice a day, to prevent stress and problems resulting from this condition.
5. Improved vision
Vitamin A present in basil has antioxidant properties, highly beneficial to eye health. Just 100g of fresh basil correspond to the recommended daily dose of Vitamin A to the organism.
6. Improve skin
Others benefits of basil They prevent the appearance of acne and accelerate the recovery process from skin wounds. Its extract helps eliminate bacteria present in the dermis, which result in clogging of pores, the main cause of acne.
Basil's properties reduce skin inflammation and are used to treat other problems, such as ringworm, psoriasis and insect bites. The herb is considered excellent in preventing and treating skin cancer.
7. Improves oral health
Studies indicate that the properties of basil They are also effective in combating bad breath and periodontal disease.
8. Eliminates kidney stones
Basil has a powerful effect on kidney function. To optimize the organ, it is recommended to consume 6 fresh leaves with water, on an empty stomach.
For those suffering from kidney stones, it is good to mix juice extracted from basil with honey and drink the mixture daily for approximately 6 months.
The procedure facilitates the elimination of kidney stones through urine. THE plant It is also beneficial for curing various urinary problems.
9. Treat stomach problems
Consuming basil is also good for the digestive system. The juice extracted from its leaves can treat stomach pain or cramps.
Its tea is also used to treat other common stomach problems, such as constipation, indigestion and acidity.
Its medicinal properties also help to cure gastric ulcers and peptic ulcers, in addition to improving liver function.
10. Headache relief
Another of the benefits of Basil is its function as a muscle relaxant.
The plant can be chewed, ingested as a tea or even applied as an oil directly to the body to relieve muscle tension and headaches.
11. Cardiovascular system
The powerful antioxidant components found in the herb help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the chances of developing coronary artery disease.
Basil properties such as magnesium help relax muscles and improve blood flow in the body.
12. Respiratory system
The herb also promotes respiratory health, as it helps improve lung performance. Basil essential oils are good for curing bronchitis and lung congestion.
The plant is also very useful in treating tuberculosis.
13. Nervous system
Improving brain functions is yet another benefit of basil, as it normalizes neurotransmitter levels in the brain.
Its extract works as a brain tonic and helps sharpen memory.
It is said that basil grew around the tomb of Jesus Christ, after his Resurrection, and for this reason in Greek Orthodox Churches the water is blessed with its leaves and many vases of the plant decorate the altars.
Curiosity
General review by Dr. Patrícia Leite, nutritionist with a postgraduate degree in Nutrition from the Federal University of Rio de Janeiro and specialist in Sports Nutrition from the Universidad Miguel de Cervantes (España). She is also a member of International Society of Sports Nutrition.
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