Basil oil

Technical Data Sheets :

Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum

Common Method of Extraction: Basil oil is extracted through the method of steam distillation. It is distilled from the leaves and flowering tops.

Parts Used:  Leaves and flowers are the parts used.

Note Classification:  Top

Aroma: Basil oil has a very fresh and warm aroma which attracts everybody. The aroma is fiery and herbaceous too.

Largest Producing Countries:  Basil oil is produced in countries of Europe and North Africa. It is also produced in Cypress and Seychelles.  The origin of Basil is tropical Asia and the Islands in the Pacific. Nowadays it is cultivated in parts of European countries and also in the United States of America. The crop is done annually and the plant grows up to 3 feet height.  The flowers of the plant attract lots of bees during summer.

Traditional Use:  Basilicum comes from the Greek word Basilicos. The meaning of the Greek word is royal or king. It is treated as a sacred leaf to the Indian God Vishnu. Since it is a very good digestive the leaf is often chewed after a heavy meal as part of the tradition in India. Ayurveda and Chinese branch of medicine use Basil as one of the ingredients.  Chewing the leaf reduces the mouth odour.

Properties:  Basil oil is analgesic, carminative, antidepressant, cephalic, antispasmodic, anti-venomous, diaphoretic, expectorant, digestive, stomachic, sudorific, stimulant and tonic. It is an insecticide, febrifuge, emmenagogue, nervine and cephalic too.  It is wonderful tonic for curing nervous disorders. It is perfect remedy for headaches connected to stress, migraines and even allergies. Once consumed it soothes your mind and eases intellectual fatigue. You may even get extra mental strength.  Basil oil is a good medicine for infection in the respiratory tract and also for asthma. It has healing properties for bronchitis and sinus infections. It is an ideal medicine for constipation, nausea, cramps and nausea. The Basil oil is ideal for women with menstrual problems.

Irregular and abnormal periods can also be regularised with the use of Basil oil.  Basil oil is the perfect remedy to relieve you from gout. The uric acid level in the blood will be minimized and problems of gout will be reduced. It is also good for arthritis and ideal for controlling spreading of acne.  The oil refreshes the skin and can be used on insect bites for immediate relief.

Blends Well With: Basil oil blends well with all essential oils. It goes well with essential oils like ginger, grapefruit, geranium, black pepper, cedarwood, fennel, lavender, lemon, neroli, verbena, bergamot and marjoram.

Of Interest:  The aromatic properties of Basil oil are many. The biological name ocimum is from the Greek word osme. The meaning of this word is ‘to smell’.

Safety Data: Excess usage of the Basil oil can create a staggering effect on the person who has consumed. The oil has the stimulating power but over dose can create problems. Pregnant women and children below 16 are not allowed to use the oil. People with sensitive skin are advised to use the oil with much care.