Basil Essential Oil

Cheerful, Optimistic and Balancing....

The leaves are a symbol of love in Italy (and is believed by some to be an aphrodisiac!).

The name basil comes from the Greek word 'basilicon' which means 'a royal remedy'. It was used in baths and body massage by ancient Greek nobles for its fragrant aroma.

It is a sacred herb in India (called tulsi), where it is believed to offer protection to the soul, and an important ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine.

Common Name:
Basil

Botanical Name:
Ocimum basilicum

Source:
European countries, Egypt, Hungary, USA

Common Method Of Extraction:
Steam distillation of leaves and flowers

Aroma:
Light, fresh, herbal and sweet.

Note:
Top

Blends Well With:
Bergamot, black pepper, lemon, lavender, geranium, hyssop

Properties:
Antiseptic, antidepressant, antispasmodic, Carminative, Cephalic, Digestive, Emmenenagogue, Expectorant, Febrifuge, Nervine, Stomachic, Sudorific, Tonic

See the glossary for definitions!

Mind, Spirit and Body:

• Basil essential oil is very uplifting and excellent for mental fatigue. Great to use in a diffuser to help concentration when studying.
• Useful for treating all kinds of respiratory infections such as bronchitis.
• Gentle massage over the stomach with basil oil can help ease digestion problems.
• Basil blends especially well with lavender and used together in aromatherapy massage is terrific for tight and tired muscles - an excellent blend to use with athletes and dancers!
• Use in inhalations for head colds, head-aches and migraines.
• Use in a gentle massage over the abdomen to help with painful periods.
• Good for treating mosquito bites and wasp stings....also a good essential oil to use in an insect repellant blend.
• Can be used as a mouthwash to help ulcers and gum infections.

Precautions:

• Basil is a powerful depressant if over-used.
• Do not use with children under 16.
• Also best to avoid during pregnancy.
• May be an irritant to people with sensitive skin.

• Basil tends towards yang but has both hot and cold properties.
• Basil has been used for the bites of insects, snakes and scorpions.