The invaluable benefits of basil for the human body
Basil, the benefits and harms of which are the purpose of our article, is used by lovers of herbs as an additional ingredient in cooking. Besides its culinary uses, basil is also used as a medicine. Spice essential oils are often used in perfumery. How is basil useful for humans? You will find the answer to this question in our article.
The benefits of basil for the body and contraindications for use
The healing properties of basil:
- It is a pain reliever for spasmodic abdominal pain.
- Promotes increased immunity.
- Basil is recommended for pneumonia and various forms of bronchitis.
- Decrease in blood pressure.
- Eliminates bleeding gums.
- Possesses antifungal properties.
- Effectively fights throat diseases.
- Basil is used for chronic insomnia.
Contraindications:
- Basil is strictly prohibited in any form for poor blood clotting, epilepsy and coronary heart disease.
- Despite the many beneficial properties of the spice, doctors do not recommend using basil during pregnancy. The essential oils of the plant can provoke uterine tone, which is fraught with premature birth.
- When breastfeeding, it is allowed to use exclusively dried basil tea. This drink helps to increase lactation.
Basil, the beneficial properties and contraindications of which we discussed above, must be taken with caution.
Since this spice contains a small amount of mercury, many experts do not recommend consuming large quantities of basil.
Folk recipes
In order for the basil decoction to bring exclusively benefits to the body, it is necessary to prepare it correctly. Consider a few of the most effective recipes:
- Toning drink. Pour 700 - 800 ml of cold water into an enamel pot. Put the pan on the fire and bring to a boil. Then we put three basil leaves in water. 15 minutes after boiling, add the sliced lemon and 2 tablespoons of sugar. Cook over high heat for 10 minutes. Next, you need to close the broth with a lid and let it brew for 2 hours.
- To relieve pressure. Place the dried flowers and basil leaves in a thermos and pour boiling water over it. Leave the tincture for 4 hours. Then we bring the drink to room temperature and drink half a glass at least 3 times a day. This remedy is relevant for people with hypertension.
- With angina. In case of purulent diseases of the throat, it is necessary to squeeze juice from the leaves of the basil. Freshly squeezed juice is mixed with two tablespoons of liquid honey, the consistency is thoroughly mixed and consumed 1 teaspoon three times a day.
You can add one teaspoon of flower honey before drinking, this will give the drink a unique taste.
The use of basil in cooking
Many people wonder where basil is added? This spice is widely used in cooking, especially in foreign countries. Let's look at several recipes with the addition of basil:
- Snack. Tomatoes cut into circles and put them on a plate. Add salt to taste. Next, using a coarse grater, rub hard cheese over the tomatoes. Chop the basil finely and sprinkle on the dish.
- Diet soup. Peel the onions and carrots, chop with a fine grater and fry in a pan. Meanwhile, pour cold water into an enamel saucepan and set over high heat. As soon as the water boils, place a small chicken breast. 20 minutes after boiling, add carrots, onions, diced potatoes, salt to taste. As soon as potatoes will reach readiness turn off the stove. Add finely chopped basil to the soup and cover with a lid to infuse the soup. After one hour, the dish is ready to eat.
- Salad. Grind the boiled chicken breast with a knife. Next, take the tomatoes, finely chop and combine the ingredients. Season the salad with low-fat sour cream. Mix thoroughly and sprinkle the salad with basil.
The benefits and harms of basil, which are due to the unique composition, are widely used in various directions. In moderation, the spice does not pose a danger to human health, with the exception of contraindications.