Throughout Asia and Europe, sweet basil was once regarded as a sacred plant. Even today, this small annual herb is dedicated to the Hindu diety Vishnu and is said to be the incarnation of his wife, Lakshmi. In India, basil is seen as a symbol of both fortune and beauty.
Sweet basil essential oil is steam-distiled from the leaves and flowers of Ocimum basilicum. A good basil will have a a sweet, grassy scent with hints of spice.
Traditional Herbal Uses
At one time, basil was considered an aphrodisiac but today basil is used mainly to stabilize mood and aid digestion. Herbalists believe that basil has both carminative and antispasmodic properties. And a 1997 study found basil to have strong antibacterial properties as well.
In Chinese medicine, basil is classified as a warming oil which strengthens yang and eases depression, exhaustion and moodiness. It's recommended as a remedy for melancholy, complacency and indecisiveness.
Aromatherapy Uses
Herbalist John Gerard wrote of basil, "it maketh a man merry and glad," and modern day aromatherapists still use basil for mood. Basil is considered to be uplifting, stimulating and awakening. It's diffused into the air to clear the mind, increase concentration and focus attention.
Aromatherapists also use basil to ease the feelings of fear and vulnerabilty that often accompany life-changing events like a move, a divorce or a job change. Basil is said to give courage and increase one's ability to make decisions decisively and objectively.
Blending With Other Essential Oils
Basil blends especially well with citrus oils like orange, lemon and lime. It can also blend well with heavy oils like Jasmine and Ylang Ylang or with woody oils like pine and cedar.
Basil is considered a top-note.
Safety & Warnings
Basil is generally considered safe for most people but it's use is contra-indicated during pregnancy. Basil oils with high levels of methyl cinnamate or methyl chavicol can be skin irritants.
