Plant Remedies  Basil

Basil was introduced to Europe from its native India.

The leaves are good for rubbing on insect bites and can also be taken as a warming and uplifting tonic for nervous exhaustion. Their strong aromatic scent is much like cloves.

In aromatherapy the oil, extracted from the leaves is often combined with bergamot or geranium oils as a stimulating massage for depression.

Volatile oil – estragol, tannins, basil, camphor

Basil is traditionally used as an antidepressant, antiseptic, stimulates the adrenal cortex, prevents vomiting, tonic, reduces fever, expectorant and soothes itching.

Infusion This is traditionally used after childbirth to prevent a retained placenta.

Tincture This is traditionally used for nervous conditions, combined with wood betony and skullcap.

Wash This is traditionally combined with an equal amount of honey and used for ringworm and itching skin

Essential oil

Oil This is traditionally drunk used for nervous exhaustion, mental fatigue, melancholy or fear.

Chest rub This is traditionally used for asthma and bronchitis using 5 drops of basil oil in 10ml almond oil.

Do not use the essential oil in pregnancy