BASIL(Tulasi)
The scientific name of Basil is Ocimum basilicum. It is a small herb which was first seen in asian countries.This plant has many medicinal values as well as nutritional values.This herb is known to have many anti-microbial , anti-cancerous and antioxidant properties. This herb is widely used in ayurvedic medicine (most famous in India).
In ayurvedic medicine it is used in treating stress, asthma and diabetes.
the leaves of basil contains some essential oils namely eugenol, citronellol, linalool, citral ,limonene and terpinol.
These oils also inbihit various microbial strains of bacteria like Staphylococcus, Enterococcus and Pseudomonas which are mainly responsible for causing various infections.Nowadays these strains have become resistant to all the antibiotics used against them. Basil acts very well against them.
The eugenol present in the leaves acts as an anti-inflammatory agent.
This herb also contains some antioxidants like beta-carotene and poly phenols like orientin and vicenin.
the leaves are also used in the treatment of pimples.
The juice obtained by crushing these leaves is mixed with honey and taken to reduce flum and cold.It also reduces cough also.
Nutritionally Basil has many vitamins ,minerals in it. As it is a herb it is free from cholesterol and provides more fiber.
This herb is rich in vitamin- A, vitamin- K and has some vitamin-C .
This herb is also rich in minerals like calcium, iron , manganese and magnesium.
Basil is also used in sesasoning many food preparations due to its wonderful flavor.
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Like Mint and Cilantro ,it is added at the end of all food preparations.
In India , Basil is considered as a goddess and they worship this herb .
