Basil is a well-known herb used in the kitchen to flavor food, but it also has wonderful medicinal properties, among which it is useful for dealing with high temperatures.
Currently, due to the climate crisis, Europe is going through one of the hottest summers in history and the heat wave is wreaking havoc on the population. Consuming basil, along with other measures, helps keep the body hydrated.
Although basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) It is considered energetically warm, it has a cooling effect on the liver, circulatory system and intestines due to its ability to remove excess heat and toxins from the body.
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Medicinal properties of basil
This herb, whose origin would be India or the tropical or subtropical regions of Asia, has many medicinal properties, including:
- Its flavor is very fresh and its leaves and flowers can be eaten. It is a plant related to mint, oregano and rosemary, all of which belong to the Lamiaceae family.
- It has adaptogenic and antioxidant properties, so it can counteract the negative effects of stress-induced cell damage.
- It is an herb that promotes relaxation and improves mood, acting positively on the nerves. Ideal for cases of chronic stress, anxiety and depression.
- It is used to open the appetite (stomach), prevent flatulence and bloating (carminative), sometimes to strengthen kidney function (diuretic),
- It is commonly consumed to promote milk production during lactation (lactagogue
- It has astringent properties for gargling in case of inflammation of the pharynx.
- Relieves menstrual discomfort and migraines.
- As a home remedy, alcoholic extracts of basil and sage are used to treat poorly healed and purulent wounds.
How to consume basil?
This herb can be eaten fresh, dehydrated or cooked. One of its best-known uses is as an ingredient in traditional Italian pesto, a garlic, nut and olive sauce.
But it is also possible to add it to salads, pizzas, pasta, prepare smoothies, infusions and even drinks with or without alcohol. It should be noted that the consumption of alcohol is not recommended in case of high temperatures because it promotes dehydration.
Pineapple Basil Smoothie
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen pineapple chunks
- 1 cup coconut water
- ¼ cup basil leaves
- 1 teaspoon agave syrup, or to taste
- 3 ice cubes
Treat
Combine all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Taste if necessary to correct the sweetness. Serve immediately.
To note: Basil can cause certain allergic reactions. It is contraindicated to consume in high doses during pregnancy, in children under 2 years old and during breastfeeding..
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