 |
 
|
Information about the herb Basil
Ocymum basilicum, also known as Sweet Basil is part of the Labiatae plant family.Sweet basil is Native to India
|
|
General Information
Botanical Name: Ocymum basilicum, Ocymum minimum (Bush Basil)
Common Name: Common Basil, St. Josephwort, Sweet Basil
Plant Family: Labiatae
History: The meaning of the name is uncertain: some say it is from the Greek 'basileus' meaning 'a king'; others that it comes from 'basilisk' 'a mythical creature'.
In India Basil is sacred to both Krishna and Vishnu.
Culpepper calls it 'a herb of Mars and under the Scorpion'. It is a very masculine herb.
Contains:
-
aromatic volatile camphoraceous oil
Action:
- antispasmodic [an agent which relieves or eases muscular spasms, cramps or convulsions]
- appetizer [an agent that excites the appetite]
- aromatic [a substance having an agreeable odor and stimulating qualities]
- carminative [an agent for easing griping pains, colic and expelling gas from the intestines]
- galactagogue [an agent that encourages or increases the secretion of milk]
- stomachic [an agent that strengthens, stimulates or tones the stomach]
- refrigerant [an agent that lowers abnormal body heat, relieves thirst and gives a feeling of coolness]
- vermifuge [an agent to expel parasitic worms, especially of the intestines]
Medicinal Parts Used: The whole herb
- aids in attracting and keeping love
- brings wealth if you carry a basil leaf in your pocket
- is used for purification baths
- is used in wealth and prosperity rituals
- is sprinkled over your mate while they sleep to ensure fidelity in your marriage (powdered basil)
- protects from evil and negativity
- was called the 'herb of poverty' giving protection to those who were poor and in want
- when placed on the breast during sleep it is the passport to paradise (Hindu)
There were some conflicting legends:
- In Italy it stood for 'love' and was called 'Kiss Me Nicholas'
- In Greece it meant 'hate'
- In Judeism sprigs of Basil were held 'to give strength when fasting'
Basil is commonly used for:
Brain and Nervous System Conditions
- clears the head and brain
- headache (rubbed on the temples)
- mild nervous disorders
Female Conditions
- cleanses the womb
- expels the afterbirth after childbirth
Gastrointestinal Conditions
- constipation
- enteritis
- gastric catarrh
- intestinal catarrh
- stomach cramps
- vomiting
Respiratory Tract Conditions
- colds
- whooping cough
Other
- draws out poisons
Other Uses:
- culinary herb in salads and cooking
Drug Interactions:
Do not use Basil without first talking to your practitioner or healthcare provider if your taking any of the following medications:
- None known
Global Herbal Supplies has Basil available in the following forms:
Information given by our website is provided for informational purposes and is not meant to substitute for the advice provided by a physician or other medical professionals. You should not use the information given for diagnosing a health problem or disease. If you have or suspect that you have a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider. The above information is just a guide to general circumstances and in no way should it contradict the advice that you have been given by your naturopath, medical doctor or specialist.
