Basil Essential Oil
What is Basil oil
Basil oil is an annual herb, known as Ocimum basilicum, which belongs to the Lamiaceae family. It originates from Tropical Asia and the Pacific Islands, commonly cultivated in Europe, Central Asia, India and Southeast Asia. It grows up to 1 meter, and its flower from white to pink. Basil essential oil is a source of Vitamin A, Magnesium, Potassium, Iron and Calcium. Basil oil used for various medicinal purposes.
Extraction-
Basil oil is extracted from the leaves and flowers of Ocimum basilicum through steam distillation.
Composition-
Its major constituents are linalool, fenchol, eugenol, methyl chavicol (Estragole) and caryophyllene and other minor constituents are pinene, camphene, -pinene, myrcene, limonene, cis-ocimene, terpineol, citronella, geraniol and methyl cinnamate.
Properties-
Basil oil is pale greenish yellow and clear in color and watery in viscosity. Its aroma is crisp and light.
Blending-
Basil Oil is well mixed with Bergamot, Lemon, Juniper Berry, Eucalyptus, Neroli, Lavender, Clove Bud, Geranium, Melissa, Lime, Marjoram and Rosemary.
Uses & Health Benefits of Basil Essential Oil
- Basil oil is used for culinary purposes as an active ingredient for Italian dishes.
- It is used to treat nausea, sickness, indigestion, constipation, and diabetes.
- It also helps in reducing the symptoms of acne.
- It is used to improve the luster of hair and is also effective against fatigue and flaky scalp.
- It is used in massage oil as basil oil is analgesic, it provides relief from pain, soothes muscles after exercise.
- Basil oil has carminative properties used to treat indigestion, constipation, stomach cramps and flatulence.
- As basil oil has colic quality, also used to alleviate bowel pain.
- It is used to provide relief from cold, influenza and associated fever.
- Basil oil is antispasmodic and is used to treat whooping cough.
- It is used to treat asthma, bronchitis, and sinusitis.
- Basil oil is used to treat various infections such as cuts, wounds, skin infections, and bladder infections.
- It is used to reduce mental stress, improve alertness, treat nervous tension, mental fatigue, melancholy, migraines and depression. It provides mental strength and clarity.
- It is used in aromatherapy because of its crisp-smelling and refreshing aroma, used to re-energize and has a soothing effect on muscles.
- It is used to increase the metabolic function of the body and also improve blood circulation as well. It is effective against occasional sleeplessness.
- It is also used against burns, bruises, scars, injuries and surgical recovery, sprains and headaches. It used to prevent vomiting, nausea, and sickness.
Safety and Precaution-
- Do not use in excessive amounts as it may be carcinogenic due to its methyl clavicol content.
- Avoid use of basil oil while pregnant or breastfeeding.
- Keep basil oil out of reach of children.
- It can cause low blood sugar in some people.
- Do not use people who are suffering from a bleeding disorder.
