Basil Health Benefits, Nutrition and Herb Facts

Health Benefits of Eating Basil Herb

• Basil herb consists of many polyphenolic flavonoids including vicenin and orientin. All these compounds were proven in vitro laboratory research for antioxidant protection in mouse liver against radiation-induced lipid peroxidation.
   

• The herb is found to contain many essential oils; for example citral, citronellol, eugenol, limonene, linalool and terpineol. These health benefiting compounds contain anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
   

• Zeaxanthin, a flavonoid carotenoid substance found in basil, is distributed around the retinal macula lutea and help filter damaging ultra violet rays from getting into retina. Usually, foods abundant with zeaxanthin reduce the risk of getting age related macular disease (AMRD) particularly in aging adults.
   

• Vitamin A has antioxidant properties, which is very important to good eyesight. Also, it is essential for keeping healthy skin and mucus membranes. Eating natural foods loaded with vitamin A helps protect your body from oral cavity and lung cancers.
   

• Vitamin K found in basil is important for coagulant factors in our body and plays a significant role in mineralize and strengthen the bones.
   

• The herb consists of great deal of minerals such as copper, magnesium, potassium and manganese. Potassium is an essential component of body fluids and cells, which helps manage blood pressure and heartbeat. Manganese is commonly used by our system as a co-factor for the superoxide dismutase enzymes.
   

• Basil is full of iron. It carries 3.17 mg in every 100 g of fresh leaves. Present of iron in our body determines the capability of blood in carrying oxygen.

Overview and Facts about Basil Herb

Basil or (scientific name Ocimum basilicum) is a favorite fragrant culinary herb which is seen often in Southeast Asian and Italian dishes. The term basil originates from the Greek word which means king. Native to Africa and India, currently there are 50-150 species around. Basil has been grown for over five thousand years in India and other Asian countries.

Basil features a very distinctive and pungent odor and flavor, which is a slight earthy and peppery flavor accompanied by a subtle hint of sweet taste, like liquorice. 

Basil Nutrition and Calories
 

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