| Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is in the mint family | | | | itching or ringworm. Basil can be used to encourage a |
| (Lamiaceae or Labiatae). It has a long tradition both in | | | | positive outlook, sense of purpose in one's life, to |
| the East as a medicinal herb and in the West where | | | | improve concentration and decisiveness. Basil opens |
| it is primarily used as a culinary herb. Basil is divided | | | | the heart and brings harmony to the mind. Basil can |
| into several chemotypes with each having different | | | | also be used for culinary purposes-just remember-a |
| properties because of their constituent compounds. | | | | little goes a long way. If using in cooking, one drop is |
| Traditionally the powdered leaves of Basil were | | | | all that is necessary. |
| inhaled in the 16th century to treat migraines and | | | | The main effects of basil are antispasmodic and it |
| chest infections. In the Ayurvedic tradition, it is used | | | | has a balancing effect on the autonomic nervous |
| for respiratory problems such as bronchitis, coughs, | | | | system. For application basil can be applied to the |
| colds, asthma, flu and emphysema and as an antidote | | | | spine, the energy centers and soles of the feet or |
| for poisonous insect or snakebites. In Greece, basil | | | | the back of the neck. Basil is one of the essential oils |
| was venerated because it is said that it sprung up at | | | | used in the healing technique known as Raindrop |
| the place where St. Helen found the true cross of | | | | Technique. |
| Jesus. Hildegard of Bingen used basil as a treatment | | | | As for safety data, basil may be sensitizing to the |
| for someone with palsy of the tongue (can not | | | | skin since it contains the phenol methyl chavicol. |
| speak) and for strong fevers. It is considered sacred | | | | Therefore, use it with caution or dilute with a carrier |
| in the Hindu tradition. Planted on a grave, they believe | | | | oil. |
| it will help the soul pass to heaven. | | | | To learn more about basil and other essential oils you |
| Basil today is considered excellent for the relief of | | | | might want to consider becoming a certified |
| migraines and mental fatigue. It is also helpful in | | | | aromatherapist. Educational courses in healing energy |
| relaxing muscles and soothing insect bites. It can be | | | | and aromatherapy can help you understand how |
| used for respiratory conditions, skin disorders like | | | | essential oils heal the body/mind/spirit. |