Basil is one of the most commonly consumed herbs and one of the most well-loved herbs as well! Basil has the ability to add a nice Italian flare to just about any dish and tastes amazing chopped and added to a freshly made vegan pizza. What most people don’t know is that as they are enjoying basil they are actually doing their body some good! Not only does it tastes amazing; there are also some amazing health benefits of basil that many do not know about. So, go ahead and continue to enjoy your basil it’s helping you in more ways than one.
Here are some of the amazing health benefits of basil you never knew:
Basil Contains Powerful Antioxidants
This may be surprising considering many people associate antioxidants with things like berries, but guess what? One of the best health benefits of Basil is that it is another excellent source of antioxidants as well! Basil contains water soluble flavonoids called rientin and viceninare which can help to protect white blood cells. Basil has also been known to help fight free radical damage.
Basil is an Anti-inflammatory Herb
Here’s another excellent anti-inflammatory herb to add to the list! Inflammation has become a widespread issue seen today and is the root cause of nearly every chronic disease. Consuming foods to cool inflammation is essential for optimal health. The essential oils in basil are what’s responsible for helping to beat inflammation.
Basil May Help Fight Cancer
Another plant-based herb that has the ability to help the body fight cancer! Studies have been published in the journal of Nutrition and Cancer stating that basil contains phytochemicals which may be able to naturally help prevent cancer!
Basil Contains Natural Antibacterial Properties
If you’re looking for a natural way to boost your immune system or fight off pre-existing infections, basil may do the trick! Basil extract has even been shown to help in inhibiting resistant strains of bacteria that are unable to respond to antibiotics. Pretty amazing, right!
Basil Acts as a Natural Adaptogen
Adaptogenic herbs help your body deal with stress, and with the amount of stress seen today everyone needs some help balancing stress loads! Studies have now shown that basil may have the ability to act as an adaptogen to help the body more efficiently handle stress.
It’s truly amazing what plants can offer concerning health. Never underestimated the power of nature. The ability to heal and promote health may be as simple as turning to plant-based and whole food products.
