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Herb
of the Month
Basil/Ocimumsanctum
Origin
of Herbs:
Holy Basil is a many branched,
erect stout and aromatic herb. It grows up to the height of
about 75cms and is hairy all over.
The plant has tender leaves, usually smooth, upto 2.5cm
in length. The herb is bitter and pungent.This herb has been
known from as early as Vedic period .The holy basil is native
to India. It reached Western Europe in the 16th
Century .It has now widely grown throughout the world.
Healing
power:
The plant has many medicinal properties. The leaves are
a nervine tonic and also sharpen memory. They promote the
removal of the catarrhal matter and phlegm from the bronchial
tube. The leaves strengthen the stomach and induce copious
perspiration. The seed of the plant are mucilaginous.
Fever:
The
leaves of basil are specific for many fevers. During the rainy
season, when malaria and dengue fever are widely prevalent,
tender leaves, boiled with tea, act as preventive against
theses diseases. in case of acute fevers, a decoction of the
leaves boiled with powdered cardamom in half a litre of water
and mixed with sugar and milk brings down the temperature.
Sore
Throat:
water
boiled with basil leaves can be taken as drink in case of sore
throat. This water can also be used as a gargle.
Respiratory
disorder:
The
herb is useful in the treatment of respiratory system
disorder. A decoction of the leaves, with honey and ginger is
an effective remedy for bronchitis, asthma, influenza, cough
and cold. A decoction of the leaves, cloves and common salt
also gives immediate relief in case of influenza. They should
be boiled in half a litre of water till only half the water is
left and add then taken.
Kidney
Stone:
Basil has
strengthening effect on the kidney. In case of renal stone the
juice of basil leaves and honey, if taken regularly for 6
months it will expel them via the urinary tract.
Heart
disorder:
Basil has
a beneficial effect in cardiac disease and the weakness
resulting from them. It reduces the level of blood
cholesterol.
Children’s
ailments:
Common
pediatric problems like cough cold, fever, diarrhoea and
vomiting respond favorably to the juice of basil leaves. If
pustules of chicken pox delay their appearance, basil leaves
taken with saffron will hasten them.
Stress:
Basil
leaves are regarded as an adaptogen or anti-stress agent.
Recent studies have shown that the leaves afford significant
protection against stress. Even healthy persons can chew 12
leaves of basil, twice a day, to prevent stress. It purifies
blood and helps prevent several common elements.
Mouth
infections:
The
leaves are quit effective for the ulcer and infections in the
mouth. A few leaves chewed will cure these conditions.
Insect
Bites:
The herb
is a prophylactic or preventive and curative for insect stings
or bites. A teaspoonful of the juice of the leaves is taken
and a repeated after a few hours. Fresh juice must also be
applied to the affected parts. A paste of fresh roots is also
effective in case of bites of insects and leeches.
Skin
disorders:
Applied
locally, basil juice is beneficial in the treatment of
ringworm and other skin diseases. It has also been tried
successfully by some naturopaths I the treatment of leucoderma.
Eye
disorders:
Basil
juice is an effective remedy for sore eyes and
night-blindness, which is generally caused by deficiency of
vitamin a. Two drops of black basil juice should be put into
the eyes daily at bedtimes.
Teeth
disorder:
The herb
is useful in teeth disorders. Its leaves, dried in the sun and
powdered, can be used for brushing teeth. It can also be mixed
with mustered oil to make a paste and used as toothpaste. This
is very good for maintaining dental health, counter acting bad
breath and for massaging the gums. It is also useful in
pyorrhea and other teeth disorders.
Headaches:
Basil
makes a good medicine headache. A decoction of the leaves can
be given for this disorder. Pounded leaves mixed with
sandalwood paste can also be applied on the forehead for
getting relief from heat, headache, and for providing coolness
in general.
Ayurvedic
supplements That contains Basil:
Kasamrit
(H) 5-10 ml Twice daily.
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