(22-10-14) Health benefits of basil including stress reduction, improved heart health

by Raw Michelle

(NaturalNews) Basil is not only a tasty way to spice up meals but a powerful
healing herb that's been celebrated across a range of cultures. The ancient
Greeks considered it sacred; in India, it symbolized hospitality, and in Italy,
it represented love. (1)

Today, it's still enjoyed by the masses who often tout it as an ideal way to
fight inflammation, protect cells and do much more. Basil's health benefits run
the gamut, not only by helping with internal health but by contributing to
improving mental health as well.

Here's a closer look at the many ways basil can boost physical and mental
health.

How basil helps overall health
Reduces stress

"Holy basil has antianxiety effects," said botanist James Duke, PhD, author of
The Green Pharmacy. Studies have found that its phytochemicals play a role in
lowering cortisol, the stress hormone, helping people to feel calm. (2)

Liver detox

According to Elizabeth Trattner, an integrative healthcare practitioner in
Florida, basil acts as an efficient liver detox, especially after
overindulgences in eating or drinking. She suggests a tasty pesto to help get
the liver back in balance. (2)

Reduces inflammation

Said to have similar compounds as medical marijuana but without the
accompanying "high," basil helps relive pain associated with inflammation-
related conditions such as arthritis and bowel inflammation. (3)

Fights cancer

Because basil is filled with antioxidants that fight free radicals, it's a
good choice when it comes to protecting cells and improving their overall
health. (3)

Improved respiratory function

Basil contains cinnamanic acid, which not only regulates blood sugar and
improves circulation but helps make breathing easier for those dealing with
respiratory conditions. (3)

Iron replenishment during menstruation

When it comes to the iron loss that results during menstruation, basil can
help. About 2 cups of chopped fresh basil leaves or 1 tablespoon of dried
leaves provides 10% of the daily iron value, putting it right up there with
spinach. (2)

Bolsters heart health

The magnesium in basil makes it an effective way to relax muscle walls, which
helps blood flow more easily. In turn, irregular heart rhythms are reduced,
helping it function properly. Furthermore, basil also has the ability to keep
cholesterol build-up at bay, so that strokes and heart attacks are less likely
to occur. (1)

Sources:

(1) http://www.whfoods.com

(2) http://www.health.com

(3) http://www.offthegridnews.com

http://science.naturalnews.com

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In evidenza

"L'informazione presente nel sito serve a migliorare, e non a sostituire, il rapporto medico-paziente."

Per coloro che hanno problemi di salute si consiglia di consultare sempre il proprio medico curante.