The basil is a spicy plant, medicinal, annual, very branched, with tetrahedral stems in height of 30 to 60 cm. In wild form reaches 70 cm. Its leaflets are oblong, oval, rarely dentate, green or purple, up to 5.5 cm long. Throw inflorescences in the form of tassels, formed by several flowers. Its color may be different: pink, white, white-violet. Flowers in July-September. Before flowering it has a very pleasant balmy smell. The stems, leaves and cups of the flower are rough to the touch. They are glands that accumulate essential oil, which causes the aroma of this plant, as well as a pleasant smell and taste of the dishes to which it is added. The basilica is considered the birthplace of South Asia. In Europe, it only fell in the sixteenth century.
Low calorie product. In its raw form, 100 g of basil contains 27 kcal. In dried basil - 251 kcal due to the high content of carbohydrates. In moderate amount as a seasoning, it will not damage the figure.
Basil contains up to 1.5% essential oil, 6% tannins, glycosides and acid saponin. A strong pleasant smell is due to the presence of a complex composition in the aerial part of its essential oil, whose content in various types varies from 0.2% to 1.5%. Includes components: methylhavinol, tsineol, linalool, camphor, otsimen, tannins, acid saponin. The essential oil has a bactericidal effect. The basil also has a beneficial effect on the gastrointestinal tract, a decoction of the leaves is used when coughing. In addition, it contains vitamin C, B2, PP, provitamin A., sugar, carotene, volatile production, R-rutin. The basil perfectly stimulates the immune system. Protects against almost all infections. Recent studies show that it helps inhibit the growth of HIV, as well as cancer cells.
The basil has treatment for almost all types of respiratory diseases, viral, bacterial and fungal infections of the respiratory tract, including bronchitis (chronic and acute), asthma (which reduces inflammation and facilitates breathing.) Sometimes eliminates the causes of asthma ). Basil is also diaphoretic and antipyretic for the flu, most colds and lung diseases. Eliminates excess mucus from the lungs and nasal passages, exacerbates sensory perception, eliminates excess gas from the colon, improves absorption of nutrients, strengthens nerve tissue, improves memory.
In the form of a drink with honey, basil can be used to clear the mind. Since basil shows an antibacterial action, it can easily deal with problems of the oral cavity: it destroys the bacteria that cause decay, tartar, plaque, bad breath, ulcers. It also has astringent properties, because the gums firmly hold the teeth, preventing their loss. But basil also contains mercury compounds, which have bactericidal properties that can be harmful to the teeth during prolonged contact with this plant. That is why it is recommended to avoid chewing basil leaves. There will be no harm if you do not chew the basil and use its decoction.
The discovery of scientists has confirmed that essential oils in basil are valuable substances (antioxidants) that protect us from dangerous free radicals (highly aggressive oxygen molecules that can stimulate cancer). That is, when we eat basil, we protect ourselves from environmental stress and reduce the risk of cancer. Baselik is used in the fight against flatulence, gastrointestinal diseases, enzymes contained in the basilica contribute to the decomposition and burning of fats in the body: weight loss is stimulated. Strengthens the nerves, normalizes sleep. Another basil strengthens and increases potency.
The methyl-cavicol, which is contained in the essential oil, strengthens the immune system and supports the "youth" of the cells. And eugenol and estragole stimulate mental activity. The basil can be eaten not only fresh, but tea can also be prepared with its leaves: you should wash a handful of fresh basil leaves, finely chop them and boil them in a liter of water. Then strain the broth, sweeten with honey and drink slightly warm.
It is known that basil can be harmful if consumed in large quantities. It can be especially dangerous for those who suffer from epilepsy, heart disease and for women at different stages of pregnancy. It is also worth using it with caution for those suffering from diabetes, hypertension, thrombophlebitis and coronary heart disease. The main cause of contraindications is the content of mercury compounds in the plant. Although these substances have bactericidal properties, in large quantities they are harmful to health. It is due to the presence of mercury, the doctors recognized the damage of the basil, as well as the medicines that are produced on its base. It has an irritating effect on the gastrointestinal tract and can cause intoxication. In some cases, individual intolerance can be observed and children up to seven years old should not use it.
