Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

DESCRIPTION
Basil oil is obtained through hydro distillation from fresh plant material from Ocimum Basillicum. The Basil oil is thin transparent fluid with light yellow to yellow-green color with aroma characteristic of Basil. A native of Africa and Seychelles, it is grown as popular culinary herb and has small white flowers. The essence is distilled from leaves and has light greenish yellow with sweet green overtones. The Basil oil derived is known for intensely fresh, sweet-spicy and vibrant aroma.

COMMON NAMES
Sweet basil, common basi, Winter cherry, Indian ginseng, Ajagandha, Ayamodakam, Kanaje, Samm Al Ferakh.

BLENDS WITH
Bergamot, clove bud, clary sage, geranium, lemon, lime, hyssop, eucalyptus, juniper, neroli, rosemary, marjoram, melissa and lavender.

CONSTITUENTS
Linalool, (-)-bornyl acetate, eugenol and eucalyptol.

USES
It is used for inhalation , in baths and for massages. Having both cold & hot qualities, when it is used in bath or is smoothed over the body, it has invigorating effect that is very beneficial for sluggish skin & pepping up circulation. When combined with other oils like Thyme, it also acts as powerful antiseptic. It also finds application for the treatment of migraines, arthritis and paralytic conditions. It is also used to fight intestinal parasites and stimulate liver & pancreas.

THERAPEUTIC PROPERTIES
Basil Oil recommended due to its various therapeutic properties which include - analgesic, antidepressant, antispasmodic, anti-venomous, carminative, digestive, emmenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, insecticide, stomachic, tonic and stimulant.