Health Benefits

Basil contains many vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants such as lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin. Many of basil’s health benefits come from these antioxidants, as well as its essential oils. These compounds mostly disappear during the drying process, so opt for fresh basil whenever possible to gain the most benefits.

Health benefits of basil include:

Reduction of Oxidative Stress

Basil is full of antioxidants. Sweet basil contains a compound called eugenol, and lime and lemon basils have limonene. These antioxidants, along with others such as anthocyanins and beta-carotene, help to fight free radicals in the body that can otherwise lead to cell damage and increase your risk for a variety of health conditions, including cancer, heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes.

 

Cancer Prevention

Holy basil, also called Tulsi, is a bit different from the sweet basil you use in your favorite recipes. Still, its phytochemicals can help to protect against different types of cancer, including lung cancer, liver cancer, oral cancer, and skin cancer.

Blood Sugar Regulation

Adding basil to your diet may help to reduce high blood sugar levels. In a study performed on rats with diabetes, basil extract helped to do just that. Basil may also be helpful in treating the long-term effects of high blood sugar.

Heart disease Prevention

The eugenol in basil can block calcium channels, which may help to lower blood pressure. The essential oils in the herb can help to lower your cholesterol and triglycerides. Basil also contains magnesium, which can help to improve blood flow by allowing muscles and blood vessels to relax. 

Improved Mental Health

Tulsi is a popular herb in Ayurvedic medicine. Research has shown that it has many benefits, including improving your mental health. It has compounds that can help to alleviate anxiety and depression, increase your ability to think clearly, and lower the risk for age-related memory loss.

ReducedInflammation

Essential oils in basil, including eugenol, linalool, and citronellol, can help to fight inflammation in the body. These anti-inflammatory properties can help to lower the risk of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. heart disease, and bowel issues.  

Protection Against Infections

Basil has antibacterial properties. The oils in the herb may help to fight bacteria in people with respiratory, urinary, abdominal, and skin infections.   

Nutrients Per Serving

 

In 2 tablespoons basil powder, you’ll find:

• Calories: 1 
• Protein: 0.2 grams
• Fat: 0 grams
• Carbohydrates: 0.1 grams
• Fiber: 0.1 grams
• Sugar: 0 grams

Basil also has many other vital nutrients in it. These nutrients include:

• Calcium
• Vitamin A 
• Vitamin K
• Manganese
• Magnesium
• Iron
• Zinc
• Potassium