Basil Essential Oil
Ocimum basilicum
Properties:
Basil essential oil is of watery viscosity and is pale greenish-yellow in color. The aroma is clear, light and peppery and gives a sweet, green top note to blends.
Origin:
Basil originates from tropical Asia and the Pacific Islands but is now cultivated throughout Europe and USA.
Extraction Method:
The oil is extracted from the leaves and the flowering tops using steam distillation.
Chemical composition:
Linalol, Camphor, Pinene, Eugenol and Methylchavicol.
Therapeutic properties:
The therapeutic properties of basil oil include the following: analgesic, antidepressant, antispasmodic, anti-venomous, carminative, digestive, emmenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, insecticide, stomachic, tonic and stimulant.
Uses:
- Basil oil is a good tonic for the treatment of nervous disorders and stress related headaches, migraines and allergies.
- It has a beneficial action on the respiratory tract.
- it is often used for asthma, bronchitis and sinus infections.
- It is also effective in the case of constipation, nausea, vomiting and cramp.
- It is also effective with menstrual problems.
- It helps to minimize uric acid in the blood, thus relieving gout.
- It refreshes the skin and helps control acne.
Precautions:
- Although Basil usually stimulates, in excess it can have a groggy effect.
- It should not be used during pregnancy or on children under 16 years of age.
Blends well with:
Bergamot, Black pepper, Cedarwood, Fennel, Ginger, Geranium, Grapefruit, Lavender, Lemon, Marjoram, Neroli & Verbena.