Basil is more than just a great addition to your pizza, pasta or sliced tomatoes on the grill. Studies show that if you add in this culinary herb last minute to your next meal, you could be doing your body a lot of good.
Basil’s flavonoids help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. They protect our cells from oxygen-based damage while helping to block inflammatory activity. Along with conditions like arthritis, basil also works to help fight fatigue in athletes who compete for long periods of time.
This favorite flavor in many households provides vitamin A and magnesium. As a good source of beta-carotene, it protects our arteries from free radical damage as well. Use basil frequently to keep your artery walls strong and clear from plagues. The magnesium keeps our muscles feeling relaxed, which in turn prompts better blood flow out of the heart.
Acting as an antibacterial tool, basil will keep you from feeling down and out for the count. It’s anti-bacterial properties can warn off the growth of countless bacterial diseases including Escherichia coli, Listeria monocytogenes and Staphylococcus.
The essential oil from basil’s leaves inhibits the growth of bacteria that has become resistant to antibiotics. The oils contain estragole, linalool, cineole, eugenol, sabinene, myrcene, and limonene. Adding this oil to your summer salad or fresh bowl of fruit could help to prevent you from picking up anything unwanted this sultry summer.
As the main ingredient of pesto and the perfect topper to pasta, make the most of the basil bounty and substitute it for other less satisfying ingredients.
– The Alternative Daily
