Basil leaves or seeds are not pure medicines on their own. But basil is incorporated in Ayurvedic medicine and has alleviating (easing) effects in certain ailments.

Below are a few of the beneficial effects of consuming Basil leaf:
Basil leaf is used for its beneficial effects in flu and cold as an innocuous expectorant. (An expectorant is a medicine that causes thinning of mucus so you can cough out mucus easily.)

Basil leaf tea (Basil Tea) is useful in reducing body temperature in uncomplicated fever.
Basil leaf or Basil Tea adds fibre to the meal and relieves constipation by loosening bowel movements.
Basil leaf has a salutary effect in lowering blood sugar and can be used as an optional extra in diabetes control.
Basil as a dietary extra provides health promoting nutrients (minerals, vitamins, mixed fatty acids and fibre) whilst enhancing palatability of the meal.
Include basil in your diet to obtain its health promoting nutrients.
Culinary uses of basil: Basil (a herb), is used in numerous cuisines the world over. Basil leaf is able to enhance the taste of various dishes and desserts. Its strong fragrance and lemony flavour improves the tastiness of salads, salad-dressings and teas.

4Use Basil leaves when preparing stir-fried foods.
4Use Basil leaves in salads and salad-dressings.
4Use Basil seeds to flavour desserts, drinks: Falooda or Sherbet.
The best part is that you can grow your own basil. Basil plants grow well under our tropical climate. They need well drained soil, plenty of sunlight and regular watering. Keep the soil slightly moist.

-Dr. S.W. Gunasekera

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