Basil

Botanical: Ocimum basilicum
Family: Labiatae/Lamiaceae (mint)

Other common names:  Common Basil, St. Josephwort, Sweet Basil, Garden Basil, Tulsi

Basil has a rich and fanciful history.  It had been considered "royale" to the French, a sign of love to the Italians and a sacred herb in India.  This plant is an important Ayurvedic herb that is grown near Indian houses:  It is believed to purify air and is also believed to possess spiritual powers.   Basil is one of the two most sacred plants in India.

Disclaimer:
The information presented herein by Viable Herbal Solutions is intended for educational purposes only. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, cure, treat or prevent disease. Individual results may vary, and before using any supplements, it is always advisable to consult with your own health care provider.

History and Uses:

Basil is an annual plant found wild in the tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The bushy stems grows to about two feet in height with an upright stalk, branching on all sides with two leaves at every joint....a little snipped about the edges.  It is grown in gardens from mid to late summer.   Basil's name is thought to originate from the Greek, basilikon, meaning "kingly or royal."   In the first century A.D.,  the Roman naturalist, Pliny, reported that Basil relieves flatulence, which has been subsequently proven true.  In the Far East, the herb had been used as a cough medicine, and in Africa, it has been used to expel worms.  American colonists considered Basil the essential ingredient in a snuff that was used to ease headaches.  In India, Basil was held in such high esteem that it was used in courts to swear upon, and next to the Lotus it was considered one of the most sacred plants. This plant was used as an embalming herb in Ancient Egypt, and in some parts of Mexico, Basil is carried in one's pocket to attract money and to keep a lover faithful.  The above ground portion of this plant is used medicinally, and primary chemical constituents of Basil include essential oil (estragol, eugenol, lineol, linalol), caffeic acid, tannins, beta carotene and vitamin C.  The essential oil obtained from this plant contains camphor.  Basil is aromatic and carminative and will help to expel flatulence, and ease griping pains in the abdomen.  This herb is best known for it's many culinary uses.  Medicinally, Basil has also been used for various topical applications: As a poultice or salve for insect bites, acne and ringworm; as a gargle or mouthwash for thrush; as a bath herb for increased energy; and as an eyewash for tired eyes.  The essential oil of Basil is added to massage oils for sore muscles, and the dried herb was burned as an antiseptic incense.  Having a pot of Basil on the table also helps to repel flies and mosquitoes, and the juice of Basil can be applied to fungal infections.  Basil is antispasmodic, carminative, galactagogue and stomachic, and it had been sometimes used for whooping cough.

Recommended Dosage:
Take two (2) to three (3) capsules, two (2) times each day with water at mealtimes.

Contraindications:
Pregnant women should use Basil with caution.

Capsule Information:
Our Basil supplements are encapsulated in 100% Gluten-free, Vegetable Cellulose, Certified Kosher, size "00" capsules. (click here for size comparison) Each capsule contains approximately 600 mgs.