The Natures Rescue Herb

Though native to India and tropical Asia, basil is commonly used in Italian, Indonesian, Thai and Vietnamese cuisine.

Factoid

There are different varieties of basil such as sweet, lime and lemon. Each of them has a unique flavour.

Benefits

• Essential oils reduce swelling and inflammation within 24 hours of treatment
• High antioxidant content prevents free radical induced damage in the liver, brain and heart
• Lessens the progression of asthma, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis
• Prevents the harmful effects of ageing

Diet

• Add garlic, olive oil and freshly chopped basil to whole-wheat pasta for good health
• Bake bread with tomato sauce and layering fresh basil leaves
• Cook basil with eggplant, cabbage, chilli peppers, tofu and cashew nuts
• Make a cup of basil tea by infusing chopped basil leaves in boiling water
• Blend pureed basil, olive oil and onions in and add to tomato soups