essential oil of the month - basil

by Alison Harriman

Latin name: ocimum basillicum

Basil falls into the Herb category of essential oil plants and today is better known in cookery. The scent of the essential oil is clear, sweet and slightly spicy.

Fact & Fiction: basil was once used by evil magicians who thought they could conjure up scorpions by crushing basil between two stones! Hindu belief holds basil sacred to the gods Krishna and Vishnu, believing it to have protective qualities. For this reason, it is used extensively in Ayurvedic medicine. It was popular in Chinese medicine, reputed to cure epilepsy. The essential oil is used widely in the perfume industry.

Effects: basil covers several of the body’s systems. A good tonic for the nerves, with an uplifting effect on depression, it is considered to be an excellent remedy for headache and migraine. It has a beneficial effect on the respiratory tract and may be used to ease sinus congestion and lung disorders such as asthma and bronchitis, flu and whooping cough. It is also reputed to restore sense of smell lost through sinusitis. It supports the digestive system by cleansing the intestines and kidneys through its antiseptic action.

Women may find it helpful with menstrual disorders such as amenorrea (lack of periods) and the sore, swollen breasts some women suffer pre-menstrually. It is also helpful in relieving muscle pain and spasm by increasing blood flow to the muscle. Its tonic action on the skin may help brighten dull skin and control acne.

Precautions: basil is classed as an emmenagogue (induces menstruation) so it is to be avoided during pregnancy. If you have sensitive skin, a patch test with one drop of basil applied neat to the crook of your elbow, is advisable. If, after 24 hours, there is no sign of redness, itching or irritation at the site, proceed with use.

Alison Harriman is a fully qualified Holistic Therapist with a special interest in essential oils and their use in aromatherapy. She is a Fellow of the International Council of Holistic Therapists (Federation of Holistic Therapists). If you wish to find a therapist in your area, or are interested in training as a therapist, the FHT may be of help to you.

Alison's own aromatherapy business may be found here.

see Alison's introduction to aromatherapy here...

or see her "ask the aromatherapist" column...

more oils of the month...rosewood...linden blossom...aniseed...

- health
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