Nutritional benefits of basil leaves

By:Shashank Alshi, Updated: Dec 16, 2021 | 16:18 IST

Basil Leaves

Basil is amongst the oldest herbs known to mankind and has excellent nutritional benefits. The benefits of basil are such that it is worshipped and offered to Gods in almost all Indian households. Not just nutritional benefits, the herb has strong medicinal and healing properties too. It is used for cooking as a flavouring agent and also to enhance the quality and health quotient of food.

Nutritional benefits in 2.6 grams of basil leaves

NUTRITIONAL FACT

MEASURE

Calcium

4.6 grams

Vitamin A

6.9 grams

Beta Carotene

81.7 grams

Beta Cryptoxanthin

1.2 grams

Lutein and zeaxanthin

147 grams

Vitamin K

10.8 grams


Some nutritional and health benefits of basil leaves are:

  1. Good for digestion: A substance called eugenol present in basil leaves has anti-inflammatory properties and prevents inflammation in the digestive tract. Basil leaves also help in balancing the acid levels within the body and restoring proper pH levels. This promotes good digestion.
  2. Strong anti-inflammatory properties: Basil has strong anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of essential oils like eugenol, citronellol and linalool that prove as a cure to many disorders and diseases. This may help lower the risk of heart diseases, arthritis and irregular bowels. Basil is also an effective cure for fever, sore throat and the common cold.
  3. Healthy skin: The essential oils present in basil help in detoxifying the skin from within. It is a natural cleanser for those with oily skin. Paste of basil leaves is used to apply to the face for the prevention of acne.
  4. Aids in liver function: Basil leaves have strong detoxification properties that can do wonders for liver health as it is one of the most important organs of the body. Basil may prevent the build-up of fat in the liver and hence ensure its smooth functioning.

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