22 Proven Benefits Of Basil Leaves For Skin, Hair And Health
Health
Published on: 28-Dec-2023
10 min read
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Lalita Vishwakarma
22 Proven Benefits Of Basil Leaves For Skin, Hair And Health
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Did you know that the humble basil leaf has the power to transform your skin, hair, and health? Well, basil leaves are rich in essential oils, flavonoids, and antioxidants, providing many health benefits.
They have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that can help reduce skin conditions, promote hair growth, aid weight loss, and treat dandruff. These are also rich in vitamins A, K, and C, as well as minerals like manganese, iron, and calcium.
You can use basil leaves fresh, dried, or as an essential oil in various ways. Here, we will discuss the 22 proven benefits of basil leaves for skin, hair and health. Continue reading to know the benefits of eating basil leaves daily!
Table Of Contents
Top 6 Potential Benefits Of Basil Leaves For Skin
Top 5 Potential Benefits Of Basil Leaves For Hair
Top 5 Health Benefits Of Basil Leaves
Top 6 Burning Basil Leaves Benefits
Nutritional Value of Basil Leaves
The Final Say
FAQs
References
Top 6 Potential Benefits Of Basil Leaves For Skin
The potential basil leaf (Ocimum basilicum) benefits for the skin include the following:
1. Treats Acne
Acne is one of the most frequent visitors that usually occurs due to pollutants or poor skin care practices. You can use basil leaves to prevent the regular occurrence of acne or pimples. These leaves are rich in anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory compounds like eugenol and camphor that help reduce acne formation. Moreover, they also help to soothe skin irritations, act as a detoxifier, regulate oil production, shrink pores, and enhance natural glow.
2. Soothes Irritation
Sometimes, individuals face skin irritation due to dryness or other conditions like psoriasis and eczema. To prevent these issues, you can take the help of basil leaves, which are enriched with natural soothing properties that reduce the itching and redness caused by these conditions.
3. Controls Oil Production
If you have oily skin, consider using basil as a natural remedy. Not only can it regulate the production of oil from the sebaceous glands, but it can also help maintain a balanced complexion over time. Adding basil to your skincare routine might be worthwhile if you are looking for a simple and effective solution.
4. Supports Skin Tightening
Basil has natural toning properties that can help reduce the size of pores and improve the overall firmness and texture of the skin. It is great to include in your skincare routine to achieve a smoother, more youthful complexion.
5. Enhances Glow
Basil is a natural ingredient that can work wonders for your skin. It has properties that can help enhance the skin's natural glow and keep it looking fresh and vibrant. Incorporating basil into your regular skincare routine can be a simple yet effective way to achieve healthy, glowing skin.
Also Read: Herbal Teas For Skin Health: A Natural Glow From Within
6. Protection from UV Rays
Basil leaves have been found to contain compounds that may help protect the skin against the damaging effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation from the sun.
These compounds act as a natural shield against UV rays, potentially reducing the risk of skin damage and premature ageing caused by sun exposure. Incorporating basil into your diet or skincare routine may offer a natural way to support skin health and protect against UV damage.
Top 5 Potential Benefits Of Basil Leaves For Hair
The basil leaves benefits for hair include the following:
1. Promotes Hair Growth
If you are looking for a good hair booster, then give it a try for basil leaves. Basils contain essential oils like linalool and nutrients that can help promote hair growth. Linalool is known for stimulating hair follicles and promoting hair growth. Moreover, basil leaves are a good source of iron, an essential mineral for hair health.
2. Reduces Hair Loss
Basil leaves may also help to reduce hair loss. One study found that basil extract effectively treated hair loss in mice. The extract increased the number of hair follicles in the anagen (growth) phase and reduced the number of hair follicles in the telogen (resting) phase.
Also Read: 6 Amazing Home Remedies For Hair Fall
3. Prevents Dandruff
Dandruff is a common scalp condition that can cause flaking and itching. Basil leaves have antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help to prevent dandruff. These restrict the growth of dandruff, causing fungi and bacteria. Thus, incorporating basils in your hair care routine can help you alleviate dandruff.
4. Moisturises Hair
To get healthy and shiny hair, it is important to give them proper oil massage treatment. Basil is rich in essential oils like eugenol and linalool that can provide moisture to your hair and scalp, preventing dryness and frizz. These can deeply nourish and condition your hair, giving it a shiny appearance. You can use basil-infused hair products like hair serums or shampoos or simply add fresh basil leaves to your hair masks.
5. Improves Scalp Health
Using basil leaves can be beneficial in promoting scalp health. It effectively reduces inflammation and irritation caused by harmful chemicals in oils and shampoo. This, in turn, can create an optimal environment for healthy hair growth. Incorporating basil leaves into your hair care routine can be a natural and effective way to support the health of your scalp and hair.
Also Read: Herbal Teas For Hair Growth And Healthy Scalp
Top 5 Health Benefits Of Basil Leaves
The health benefits of basil leaves include the following
1. Protect Against Cell Damage
Basils are rich in antioxidants, such as eugenol and linalool, which can help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. Believe it or not, these unstable molecules are often the culprits behind chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and arthritis.
2. Manage Blood Pressure And Cholesterol Levels
Your eating habits may imbalance the normal blood flow and lead to hypertension. These two conditions result in heart disorders. Basil leaves are effective in lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Consuming basil leaf extract reduces systolic blood pressure by an average of 11.2 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by 7.6 mmHg in rats with hypertension.
It reduces total cholesterol by an average of 11.4% and LDL cholesterol by 14.7% in humans with mild to moderate hypertension. So, managing your high blood pressure and cholesterol levels is an easy and effective option.
3. Prevent Cancer
Basil leaves have been found to help prevent cancer. They contain antioxidants that protect cells from damage caused by unstable molecules called free radicals.
Eugenol, a major component of basil essential oil, has been effective against various cancer cell lines. In a study, people who consumed more basil had a 20% lower risk of developing any type of cancer.
Also Read: Anti Cancerous Food
4. Boost Mental Health
Basil leaves have been found to benefit mood and cognitive function. Studies show that basil oil may help reduce anxiety and improve memory in mice. In contrast, basil extract has been shown to improve mood and cognitive function in individuals with mild cognitive impairment.
Additionally, holy basil can benefit mental health, containing compounds that ease anxiety and depression, improve clarity of thought, and lower the risk of age-related memory loss.
5. Aids Weight Loss
Basil and Tulsi have been shown to have potential benefits for weight loss. They can help lower blood glucose and cholesterol levels, reduce cortisol, the stress hormone, and improve lipid profiles and BMI in obese patients. However, it is important to consult your doctor before using them for weight loss, as research is ongoing.
Top 6 Burning Basil Leaves Benefits
The benefits of burning basil leaves are:
1. Aromatherapy & Mood Enhancement
The aroma produced from burning basil can be both invigorating and calming. It is believed to uplift the spirit, reduce mental fatigue, and improve mood. The next time you feel down or stressed, consider burning some basil leaves and letting the fragrance permeate the room.
2. Repelling Insects
Burning basil leaves can act as a natural insect repellent. The smoke from the burning leaves is particularly effective against mosquitoes. So, if you are looking to enjoy an evening without the bothersome buzz of pests, give this method a try.
3. Energy Cleansing
In some traditions, particularly in parts of Asia, burning basil leaves is believed to help clear negative energy from a space and usher in positive vibrations. If you have just moved to a new home or feel a certain heaviness in your current environment, burning basil can be an excellent ritual to incorporate.
4. Antimicrobial Properties
Research has shown that basil possesses strong antimicrobial properties. When burnt, the smoke can purify the air in its vicinity, possibly neutralising certain bacteria, moulds, and viruses.
5. Enhancing Meditation
Much like incense, the smoke from basil leaves can enhance meditation practices. Its soothing aroma can aid in deepening one's concentration and fostering a serene atmosphere.
6. Combating Odours
The fresh and soothing aroma of basil can counteract unpleasant odours in your home. Whether it is the lingering smell of last night's dinner or a musty scent in a rarely-used room, burning basil leaves can refresh the air.
Nutritional Value of Basil Leaves
The basil leaves nutritional composition includes the following nutrients:
The Final Say
Basil leaves are full of medicinal properties and benefit our skin, hair and health in many ways. Incorporating these soothing leaves into our daily diet may improve our blood sugar levels, high blood pressure, weight management, and support skin and hair health.
You can add these highly beneficial leaves in various ways, like adding them to your salads or making basil tea or detox drinks. For skin care, you can use them as a toner or in face packs to alleviate skin issues. Drinking basil tea may aid in weight loss. For more information on weight loss or fitness-related issues, visit ToneOp.
FAQs
What are the uses of basil leaves?
The basil leaves can be helpful as:
Used as a flavorful herb and ingredient
Used in Basil tea
Used as a decorative garnish on dishes
Works as a natural and fragrant insect repellent.
Used in herbal medicine
What are basil leaves benefits and side effects?
Basil leaves or basil tea benefits:
Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties
May boost oral health
May improve heart health
May reduce stress
May protect against cancer
Basil leaves side effects:
High doses may cause low blood sugar
May interact with blood thinners
May cause allergic reactions in some people
3. What is the flavour of basil?
Basil leaves have a sweet to spicy flavour.
4. Can a person with a health condition eat basil leaves?
Yes, basil leaves can be consumed by anyone despite their medical condition.
5. Can we eat raw basil leaves?
Yes, basil leaves can be consumed raw.
6. Are there any holy basil leaf benefits that I should know about?
Holy basil leaves, also known as Tulsi, offer benefits like anti-inflammatory properties and stress relief, promoting overall well-being and immune support. They are also recognised for their antioxidant-rich nature, aiding in various health conditions.
References
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