by Setareh Kiumarsi
Basil is considered one of the most sacred Ayurvedic plants. In Ayurveda, it is called Holy Tulsi and it is highly recommended to keep a fragrant pot of basil in your yard or home.
What is its quality?
Basil is warm and dry. (You can read more about warm and dry vegetables in the “Vegetarian Etiquette” article.) It helps balance Vata and Kapha doshas; the good thing is that its warmth is not very strong, so even Pitta individuals (those with a naturally warm constitution) can use it.
What does basil do in our body?
Basil relieves bloating, aids digestion, cleanses the lungs, helps treat colds and shortness of breath, has antibacterial properties similar to antibiotics, detoxifies the liver, lowers blood sugar, acts as a diuretic, helps treat mouth ulcers (chew fresh leaves), improves blood circulation, and supports heart health.
Other benefits
Basil calms the nerves, acts as an antidepressant, refreshes and lightens the mind, and is used in many Ayurvedic formulas to treat mental imbalances.
How to use it?
* Eat it as a side with meals. Consuming it with food (especially hard-to-digest proteins like red meat, seafood, or cheese…)helps digestion. Adding a little lemon juice, olive oil, and salt before eating is beneficial.
*Morning herbal tea: Add a few fresh basil leaves to a cup of hot water with a pinch of saffron, a few drops of lemon juice, a teaspoon of honey, and a pinch of salt. This tea will wake you up and refresh your mind.
* What else? Is your throat sore?
Boil a handful of fresh basil leaves in 1.5 cups of water until 1 cup remains. Use this decoction to gargle several times, then drink it.
Do you have a flue?
*Steep a few fresh basil leaves with a teaspoon of cloves in a cup of hot water. Add a few drops of lemon juice, a teaspoon of honey, and a pinch of salt before drinking. Drink several times a day.
Stay healthy.
Please make sure to mention the author, “Setareh Kiumarsi,” if you share or republish this article, which was written with hope for everyone’s health and love.
