Basil

Basil

Ocimum basilicum

Nutritional Profile

Basil herb is very low in calories and contains no cholesterol, yet is a rich source of many essential nutrients, minerals, and vitamins required for optimum health. The herb contains exceptionally high levels of beta-carotene, vitamin A, cryptoxanthin, lutein, and zeaxanthin. Fresh basil leaves contain an impressive 5,275 mg of vitamin A per 100g, representing 175% of daily requirements.

Basil is an excellent source of iron, containing approximately 3.17 mg per 100g of fresh leaves (about 26% of recommended daily intake). Iron is a component of hemoglobin inside red blood cells and determines the oxygen-carrying capacity of blood.

The herb also contains beneficial minerals including potassium, manganese, copper, and magnesium. Vitamin K present in basil is essential for blood coagulation factors and plays a vital role in bone strengthening through supporting the mineralization process.

Active Constituents

Basil leaves contain notable plant-derived chemical compounds known to have protective and health-promoting properties.

Polyphenolic Flavonoids: The herb contains orientin and vicenin, compounds that have been studied for their possible antioxidant protection against radiation-induced lipid peroxidation.

Essential Oils: Basil contains health-benefiting essential oils including eugenol, citronellol, linalool, citral, limonene, and terpineol. These compounds are known to have anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties.

Carotenoids: Zeaxanthin, a yellow flavonoid carotenoid compound, is selectively absorbed into the retinal macula lutea where it filters harmful UV rays from reaching the retina. Studies suggest that herbs, fruits, and vegetables rich in zeaxanthin antioxidant may help protect from age-related macular disease, especially in elderly individuals.

Traditional Uses

Basil has been traditionally used as a culinary herb and for wellness support. The compounds in basil help act as protective agents against oxygen-derived free radicals and reactive oxygen species that play a role in aging and various processes in the body.

Antioxidant Support: The high levels of vitamin A and carotenoids in basil provide antioxidant properties that support overall cellular health. These compounds are essential for vision, maintaining healthy mucous membranes and skin.

Respiratory Wellness: The essential oils in basil have been traditionally used to support respiratory comfort.

General Wellness: Basil's rich nutritional profile makes it valuable for supporting energy metabolism, healthy blood function, and overall vitality.

How to Use

Culinary Use: Fresh or dried basil leaves can be incorporated into daily meals for both flavor and nutritional benefits.

As a Tea: Steep fresh or dried leaves in hot water for an aromatic, health-supporting beverage.

As a Supplement: Available in  powder, capsule, or leaf

Available Forms: Dried leaves, powder, capsules.

Key Traditional Benefits

Basil has been traditionally used to support:

  • Healthy vision and eye function
  • Antioxidant protection
  • Respiratory wellness
  • Healthy inflammatory response
  • Overall immune system function
  • Energy and vitality
  • Healthy skin and mucous membranes
  • Bone health
  • Iron levels and healthy blood

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner before using herbal products.