Basil

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Basil essential oil has some incredibly potent properties and a multitude of uses. Yes, basil (ocimum basilicum) oil smells like Italian food and if you use it topically, so will you. 

 

It is mostly used for respiratory, muscular, and joint support, but what makes the oil so much more powerful than the leaves is simply the potency. The compounds found in the oil of the steam distilled leaves, stems, and flowers are much greater than what we find in dried or even fresh leaves.

Primary Benefits

Soothes sore muscles and joints

Assists with clear breathing

Acts as a cooling agent for the skin

Promotes mental alertness and lessens anxious feelings

 

Emotional Benefits

Emotionally and spiritually, basil essential oil is helpful in dealing with feelings of anxiousness, fear, or nervousness, and has been said to be the oil of "renewal". It is strengthening and calming to the heart and mind, making it perfect for overwhelm, stress, fatigue, and may even assist a person in their efforts to overcome addiction.

 

Complimentary Oils

Basil blends well with Bergamot, Cypress, White Fir, Geranium, Helichrysum, Lavender, Lemongrass, Peppermint, and Wintergreen.  

 

Body Systems Affected

Cardiovascular system, Muscles and Bones.

 

Precautions 

Keep out of reach of children. If you are pregnant, nursing, or under a doctor’s care, consult your physician. Avoid contact with eyes, inner ears, and sensitive areas.

 

Popular Uses

Diffuse to sharpen focus while studying or reading.

Apply to minor skin irritations. For sensitive skin, dilute with fractionated coconut oil.

Apply to fatigued or sore muscles and joints.

Diffuse or apply topically to promote clear breathing (yes, it will make you hungry for caprese).

Use basil essential oils topically on the feet or by diffusing them aromatically to fight fatigue.

Use 1-3 drops in a recipe in place of fresh or dried basil for flavor.

Use aromatically or massage over solar plexus and heart as needed for fear.

 

Recipes Using Basil Essential Oil

Refreshing Drink:  Add 2 drops each Basil and Peppermint into 2 quarts of Iced tea for a refreshing drink.

 

Household Cleaning Spray: 

combine in a glass spray bottle...

       2 cups of filtered water

       1 cup of white vinegar

     20+ drops of lemon essential oil

     15+ drops of basil essential oil

 

Focus and Study Aid:  try diffusing 3 drops Lemon, 3 drops Basil and 2 drops Rosemary essential oil.