Table of contents:
- Benefits of basil leaf oil for health
- 1. Against bacteria
- 2. Relieves congestion due to flu
- 3. Relieves aches and pains
- 4. Clean teeth and mouth
- 5. Overcome oily hair
- Take note of this before using basil oil
Basil leaves (Ocimum basilicum) is a spice plant that is still in the same family as basil and mint leaves. You will easily find this leaf in chicken dishes with rica-rica seasoning. Apart from being used as a cooking spice, basil leaves can also be extracted into oil. Basil leaf oil has long been used by Asian and Indian people to treat various health problems. Anything?
Benefits of basil leaf oil for health
1. Against bacteria
The oil from the leaves, which has the local name of basil leaves, is proven to contain antimicrobial substances that are effective against various bacteria, yeast, and fungi from contaminated food. Research results from India show that basil leaf oil works against E. coli , the most common bacterial cause of food poisoning.
Apart from fighting bacterial infections in the body, basil oil can also be used to remove bacteria from dishes, cooking utensils and bathroom utensils.
To do this, mix a few drops of basil oil in a spray bottle of water. Wipe the surface of the table or plate with the oil mixed water to keep it free from bacteria and fungi.
2. Relieves congestion due to flu
Keeping your nose stuck because your flu symptoms don't go away? Try providing hot water in a basin and then dropping in a mixture of eucalyptus oil and basil oil. Place your head over the basin and breathe in the warm steam. To prevent the steam from escaping everywhere, cover your head with a thin towel so that it covers the surface of the basin as well.
Research from Kaohsiung Medical University in Taiwan reports that basil leaves have antiviral properties that can help fight the influenza virus.
3. Relieves aches and pains
Apart from being antibacterial and antiviral, basil leaf oil also has anti-inflammatory properties that can expel sore muscles and relax stiff muscles.
To do this, put 2 drops of basil oil on the area of the body that feels the nails then rub or massage gently until the muscles relax.
4. Clean teeth and mouth
Sometimes, bad breath can still be annoying even though you are diligently brushing your teeth. To end this problem, try adding a few drops of basil oil to a glass of water and use it to rinse your mouth for 30 seconds. Alternatively, put basil oil on your toothpaste and brush your teeth as usual.
Basil leaves contain antioxidants and natural antibacterial properties that are good for maintaining overall oral health.
5. Overcome oily hair
To get rid of excess hair oil or dandruff, try dropping basil oil into your shampoo.
You can also mix basil oil with baking soda and apple cider vinegar to balance the pH of the scalp so that oil and dirt in the hair are removed.
Take note of this before using basil oil
Basil leaf oil should not be used during pregnancy. It is feared that side effects will have an impact on hormone levels and muscle and nerve function of pregnant women. Basil leaf oil should also not be used in people who suffer from epilepsy.
It is always important to test before trying any essential oil from any natural ingredient. Perform the test by placing a small amount of basil oil on your foot or the back of your hand and waiting for 24 hours. if you have itching, a burning sensation, and redness on the skin that is smeared, it means you are experiencing an allergic reaction. don't use the oil again.
