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Health Benefits of Basil
1. A Healthy Brain
Cognitive decline has become a rampant problem for the elderly today. However, there have been studies that show that basil consumption is very helpful in preventing cognitive degradation. Basil contains minerals such as manganese, which is observed to increase the electronic transmitter activity in the brain. This activity is associated with mental reflexes. The herb also contains copper, which can help stimulate the mind – enhancing its functionality.
Glycosylceramides metabolism is also associated with the brain’s reflexes. Glycosylceramides also known as Sphingolipids are essentially molecules that act as a protective shield for the brain. This shield protects the brain from free radical and oxidative stress.
2. Managing Arthritis
Arthritis is a painful disease that often leads to physical disability. Basil has been found to contain beta-caryophyllene, as well. These are associated with effective pain-management. They are also anti-inflammatory chemicals helping soothe the burning sensation in your joints caused by arthritis. A study conducted on rats showed that they were arthritis-free due to the use of basil in their diet.
3. Stress Management
Basil contains compounds such as adaptogens. These are compounds that help the body deal with both emotional and physical stress. Basil consumption will help the body maintain a balanced functionality even during stressful events. Ocimum Sanctum or holy basil helps reduce hormone levels as well as the corticosterone levels in the body.
4. Anti Aging Properties
It is found to be full of antioxidants. Free radical damage to both the skin and the brain can be a major player in looking and feeling old. The antioxidants in the herb will help reduce the effects of free radical cells and prevent the body and mind from enduring oxidative stress.
5. Strong Bones
Loss in bone density leads to fragile bone development and several bone related injuries and physical conditions. This is especially true for women because osteoporosis is more common women than men. As the nutritional facts show that basil is an excellent source of vitamin K, it is extremely helpful in maintaining healthy bones. Vitamin K helps absorb calcium better.
6. Managing Epilepsy
It’s extract has been observed to reduce spasmodic activity in the brain. Another study conducted on animals shows that the eugenol in basil leaves is also beneficial for the nervous system.
7. Aids Metabolism
A good metabolic rate is essential to keep the body lean and healthy. Basil is a good source of manganese, which helps the body release enzymes that are beneficial in metabolizing amino acids, cholesterol and carbohydrates. It also helps metabolize vitamins that are glucose related.
8. Post Menstrual Syndrome
That time of the month can be exceptionally painful for at least 3 out of 4 women. Experiencing cramps, depression and fatigue is a of post menstrual syndrome. However, the manganese present in basil helps relieve these symptoms by balancing your hormones. This in turn helps reduce stress and fatigue.
9. Source of Energy
It contains copper, which is a vital producer of adenosine tri-phosphate. This is a compound that helps in eliminating the effects of fatigue and exhaustion. It is often recommended to use basil in smoothies to help keep the energy levels high.
10. Anti Microbial
It contains volatile compounds that have are antimicrobial in nature. In basil these volatile compounds are found as an essential oil. There are many other essential oils such as eugenol that help prevent the affects of fungi and bacteria.
11. Anti Oxidants for Cancer
It contains phenolics and anthocyanins, which are powerful antioxidants. These have been observed to protect the body from reactive oxygen species that are the main cause of cancerous cell formation.
12. Healthy Eyes
It contains beta-carotene. This is an essential compound that helps prevent muscle degeneration. Basil is also a good source of vitamin A and Ascorbic acids that is known to cure the dry eye syndrome and Stardgart’s disease.