BASIL

Ocimum basilicum- Sweet Basil

Basil is a well-known cooking and garden herb and is part of the Labiateae Family in the plant kingdom. This makes it a relative of other well-known herbs such as Lavendar, Thyme and Sage.

The essential oil of Sweet basil is extracted by steam distillation from all the above ground parts of the plant, but is concentrated primarily in the leaves. The oil is a light green colour and has a refreshing odour like a mixture of thyme, peppermint and liquorice.

Basil oil may be used to reduce nervousness, nervous debility, anxiety and headache and can be found in: Wildcrafted's Refreshing Massage Oil blend & Active Body Massage Oil Blend.

Uses in Natural Skin Care:

When used in natural skin care products, Basil can is a tonic refresher, producing a hot-cold sensation when applied to the skin. Basil oil is thought of a ‘de-toxifier’ as it stimulates sluggish and congested circulation of the skin and can be used for acne and minor skin infections. It is also reputed to have antiseptic value and to neutralise the toxins of bites and stings.

Traditional Medicinal Uses:

Basil has long been held as a notable general tonic, with energising and revitalising properties, promoting feelings of self confidence, overcoming depression, and improving mental clarity and concentration.

Basil may be useful in the following conditions:

Internal:

• Nervous debility
• Anxiety
• Nervous insomnia, vertigo
• Gastrtic spasm, dyspepsia
• Intestinal infections
• Whooping cough
• Migraine
• Paralysis
• Gout
• Scanty menstrual periods

External:

• Loss of the sense of smell due to chronic nasal catarrh, rhinitis
• Insect bites, snake bites (first-aid treatment).