We often grow basil in our gardens and use it as a culinary herb. However, basil is also a highly effective medicinal plant. A hot herbal decoction made from basil is commonly used to treat kidney inflammation, bladder infections, colds, and nasal discharge.
This herbal remedy is also useful for intestinal and liver colic, bloating, poor appetite, and conditions such as nervous disorders, headaches, epilepsy, and bronchial asthma. Basil is also considered an effective galactagogue, helping breastfeeding mothers increase milk supply.
Basil May Help with the Following Conditions:
1. Otitis (ear inflammation)
Boil 2 tablespoons of basil in 0.5 liters of water, bring close to boiling over low heat (do not fully boil), and let it sit for 10 minutes.
Apply as a warm compress to the affected ear for 1–2 hours. Repeat daily until the pain subsides.
2. Conjunctivitis
Pour one cup of boiling water over 1 tablespoon of dried basil, let it cool.
Use the infusion to rinse your eyes several times a day.
3. Itchy skin
Pour 0.5 liters of boiling water over 2 tablespoons of dried basil, let it steep for 2 hours, then strain.
Drink half a cup, 2–3 times a day before meals.
4. Nervous tension and fatigue
Steep 1 tablespoon of basil in 1 cup of boiling water for 15–20 minutes.
Drink like tea, with sugar or honey, no more than twice a day.
5. Nausea
Drink the same infusion during episodes of nausea or vomiting.
6. Toothache
One woman discovered basil’s healing power unexpectedly while on a bus, suffering from severe tooth pain. Another passenger gave her a basil sprig and advised her to chew the leaves and apply them to the aching tooth. Amazingly, by the time she reached her destination, the pain was gone. That’s when she first learned about basil’s medicinal properties.
7. Mosquito bites
A neighbor shared her trick: she rubs fresh basil leaves on exposed skin, and mosquitoes avoid her completely. Since adopting this method, mosquito bites have stopped being a problem.
8. Persistent cough and cold
A neighbor recommended steeping 1 tablespoon of crushed basil leaves in 0.5 cups of boiling water, letting it warm and strain. Drink this before meals, 3 times a day. In just two days, the cough disappeared. The infusion also helps regulate digestive function.
Contraindications:
While basil offers many benefits, it’s not always safe. Due to its blood-thickening (hypercoagulant) properties, it is not recommended for people with:
- Coronary heart disease
- Myocardial infarction
- Thrombophlebitis or thrombosis
Additionally, basil is not advised for people with hypertension or diabetes.
Conclusion:
As you can see, basil is more than just a flavorful herb — it’s a natural remedy with wide-ranging benefits. Whether added to your meals or used in herbal preparations, it’s a plant worth growing and knowing.
