Basil (Βασιλικός)

BASIL: Βασιλικός

Basil is an aromatic as well as medical plant and used widely in cooking and salad dressing. Many dishes use this fantastic herb. Basil is also used as seasoning.

In the medical field it is used against head-aches and migraines or as a diuretic. Apart from being a beautifier with an exceptional aroma

For it’s healing properties taken in the form of tea after every meal, Basil’s healing powers are attributed to its oil which is anti-convulsive.

• It calms stomach cramps.
• Also used as a tonic, diuretic, help for dizziness and nervous migraine.
• Basil in the form of powder (like tobacco) for the nose prevents colds and flu.
• It can cure head-aches.
• Used with wine it acts as a digestive tonic.
• Excellent for breast feeding mothers.
• Basil with oil in a salad is good for constipation.
• It is also an effective anti-septic and strengthens respiration.

In ancient Egypt it was used for treating snake bites and scorpion stings!

Also its leaves when crushed were applied to the painful parts of the body for rheumatism.

Basil's remedial affects are due to its content of Rhymol, Eugenol and Camphor.

Don't forget it's also a very tasty seasoning used in many foods especially Tomato based pasta sauces!