Basil is a reliable source of a variety of essential nutrients and vitamins, including omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin A, C & K, calcium, calcium, and iron.
1 – Antibacterial properties
The voliate oils contained in basil hold antibacterial properties to ensure the health is kept well-maintained. These essential or voliate oils are recorded as: limonene, myrcene, eugenol, cineole linalool and estragole. Plus, the leaves contain an essential oil that is believed to help with inhibiting certain types of pathogenic agents that are quite resistant to normal antibiotic meds.
2 – Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Basil contains a volatile oil known as eugenol, which is helpful for blocking the COX (cyclooxygenase) enzyme. The enzyme is what the over-the-counter meds like ibuprofen and aspirin are used for to treat inflammation, so a more natural source of treatment.
3 – Cardiovascular Health
Eat basil to get a complete intake of nutrients like magnesium, beta-carotene, vitamin A, etc. to aid in protecting the body from free radical damage, while also helping to oxidize the blood and improve blood flow.
4 – DNA Protection
Eat basil leaves to get a wonderful source of phytonutrients (vicenin and orientin) and plenty of antioxidants. These flavonoids are highly effective at protecting chromosomes and cell structures from oxygen-based and radiation damage
5 – Vitamin A
Basil leaves (fresh) can provide a reliable serving of vitamin A. A ¼ cup serving of basil has about 559 IU (international units) of this nutrient, which amounts to about 19-24% of the DV for adults. A regular intake of vitamin A is needed to help with cellular differentiation. Plus, it is helpful for proper gene activity. A further benefit of vitamin A is the ability to promote good vision in low-light conditions.
6 – Vitamin K
Eating basil leaves are an effective option to up the vitamin K intake. This essential nutrient is needed for proper growth of tissues, including lung, stomach, bone, and cartilage tissue. Plus, it is helpful for avoiding issues with blood clots, while also helping to avoid issues with blood loss, internal bleeding, or abnormal bruising. A 1 cup serving of fresh basil has about 1/3 of the DV of vitamin K (or 42 micrograms)
Serving tips for Basil Leaves
Basil is easily used in a favorite pasta sauce, herbal teas, smoothie, or salad dressing. This herb is great for not only dressing up a dish or dessert with flavor, but has the ability to destroy microbes that might be concealed on the greens. Eating basil fresh has the most health benefits compared to dried basil. This herb is easy to grow in a home garden or store-bought as and when required.
Freshly chopped basil leaves are easily added to a variety of dishes, from roasted red peppers to a leafy green salad. Plus, it is a great addition to sliced tomatoes and shredded basil or tomato sauce and whole-wheat pasta. Create a juice using the fresh leaves or produce more flavorful water by combining water with sliced cucumber and crushed basil.
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