Friday, October 24, 2014

Basil – Use of a Popular Medicinal Herbs

Medicinal Herbs -- Basil

Basil has more to offer than being part of a recipe. It has many other uses, and most importantly, it can help alleviate and cure some common illnesses and diseases. Incorporating basil tea or syrup can do wonders, not to mention, you can also make cataplasms and mouth rinse out of it.

Whenever we hear the word BASIL, we often associate it with food and recipes. True enough, this is one culinary herb that is widely used in Italian cuisine, not to mention, there are a number of Southeast Asian chefs, notably from Indonesia, Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia and Taiwan, that have been incorporating basil in their dishes. Depending on the type of basil, its taste is somewhat like anise with a strong sweet smell.

Basil Syrup
Making basil syrup requires a little more effort than preparing basil tea. In a bin, mix water and sugar till it is boiling. Then remove the pan from the heat. Make sure to wash the basil leaves and then add it to the water sugar mixture and cover it for a day. Stir the mixture once in a while. Afterwards, filter the mixture and boil it. Let it simmer for 20 minutes.
  However, not everyone knows that basil is also a great medicinal herb. Its use and function does not limit it from being a kitchen staple. Basil can be used as an antiseptic, sedative, galactagogue, emmenagogue and antispasmodic. This all depends on its use and also the amount of its absorption. Here are some basil tips to further maximize the use of this herb.

To prepare basil tea, simply put a few basil leaves or dried basil in a cup of boiling water. Then let it steep for 10 to 15 minutes. Do remember that its taste and flavour will vary depending on the type of basil. For that added sweetness, you can add honey or sugar.

Basil Tea 
Making basil tea is relatively easier and healthier. This herb is known for its calming effect, making it best to treat migraines and stress. This also facilitates digestion without the side effects. If you are stressed or suffering anxiety, you can take a few sips of basil tea to help calm your nerves. If you are breastfeeding your child, this is also a good herb to take because it increases milk production. However, do not take large quantity of basil tea since it can act as a sedative. You might get the opposite of the desired results.

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