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The Health Benefits of Basil
Nutrition | June 25, 2013
Do you know the health benefits of basil? Everyone home cook knows, what an important ingredient Basil is in the kitchen, however not everyone realize what are the great health benefits, that this ancient herb actually offers.
Basil looks great in my kitchen, and I love the fact that I can use a fresh basil anytime I make my salads, gazpacho soups, regular soups, pasta sauces, sandwiches, etc. You can use basil in so many dishes and it always makes a difference. If that alone did not convince you enough to look into getting your own basil plant, then let me tell you more about this “royal” herb, which has been a symbol of love in Italy, and offers incredible benefits when it comes to health.
Basil has active components called ‘flavonoids’ that provide protection at the cellular level. These important parts protect cell structures from radiation and oxygen based damage. Flavonoids are not the only important properties of Basil. This aromatic herb contains volatile oils made out of astragal, cineole, eugenol, sabinene, myrcene, limonene, and estragole. I have no idea what all of those are. I can’t even pronounce it to be honest, however the important thing is that these substances provide protection against unwanted bacterial growth, even that have become resistant to antibiotic drugs. In addition to that, studies have shown that including basil in foods that are not cooked, such as salads, helps protect from Shigella, a very agressive infectious bacteria that causes diarrhea and may trigger significant intestinal damage, below the point at which it could be detected.
Basil is Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
1)Pro-Vitamin A
Cholesterol builds up in blood vessels only after it’s been oxidized, and this vitamin protects from oxidizing cholesterol in the bloodstream, and free radical damage.
2) Iron
Iron can help as a treatment of different causes of fatigue. If you have any problems with sleeping, you may have a deficiency in iron which can cure insomnia. Iron als builds concentration, and regulates body temperature.
3) Magnesium
Causes muscles and blood vessels to relax, which improves blood flow and is beneficial for cardiovascular health.
Basil is also a great source of calcium, potassium, and vitamin C.
Now it should be more obvious, why it would be very beneficial to include basil in your recipes on a regular basis. I would always suggest to use a fresh herb over the dry one and especially when it comes to basil. The trick with basil is to add it into your dishes at the very end of the cooking process so that you don’t loose the aroma and flavor.
Here are some of my recipes for you to try where I have included Basil:
Enjoy 🙂
Z.
Private Member |
This is one (of many) of my fave herb – basil! Looking forward to grow it myself. Thank you Zuzka for this valuable information. 🙂
Private Member |
Is this the one you planted in march ??? 😉
Private Member |
I also grown basil in my window.
It’s my favorite herb – always fresh and so tasty!
Private Member |
I don’t see the image here for some reason. But, I did see it at facebook. I would be proud of that plant! It’s really awesome! 🙂 Basil is one of the herbs that everyone should have in their pantry. Thanks, –Chris
Private Member |
Saluto da Italia 🙂
Private Member |
Thanks for the info. Very informative can you please tell us what kind of other herbs you have in your garden that we could add to our healthy meals or how to start our own herb planters? Thank You!
Private Member |
2C. Basil leaves
3/4C. Olive oil
1/2C. pine nuts
2 1/2 cloves garlic
salt/pepper to taste
3/4C. parmesan cheese
In food processor combine basil leaves, oo, pine nuts, garlic, salt, and pepper until chunky. Add cheese and pulse to combine.
Pour onto Z’s “squash pasta” and enjoy! : )
Private Member |
Thank you, Jennifer!
Private Member |
In Italy we totally agree with you Zuz ;-), thanks for this interesting post.
Private Member |
The image doesn’t appear :/
Private Member |
That’s really neat timing that you posted this! I just bought a basil plant to celebrate my new job!
Sounds like there’s even further reason to celebrate. 🙂