When it comes to basil its the one ingredient I never go without when it comes to my spaghetti. Basil is a mild spice which gives your food that Italian like taste. However I never knew of how beneficial it is when it comes to health.
Reduces Cancer Cells
In one study in India researchers gave one group of animals basil extract with their diet and the other group had their regular diet. They discovered 15 days later that the animals who ate the basil had a higher level of enzymes that are known to deactivate cancer cells. Who would’ve thought that a herb that is sitting in your kitchen cabinet could have such an impact on your health. Try it with a tomato drizzled with Olive oil.
A survey by Norwegian and American researchers found that basil is a very rich source of antioxidants, which neutralizes free radicals that can cause numerous health conditions such as heart disease, cancer, and Alzheimer’s disease. Only 100 grams of basil has more antioxidant than other foods that contain it. Basil is at the top of antioxidants foods such as dark chocolate, blackberries, strawberries and blueberries. You can use it in your chicken soup, sprinkle extra on pizza or even add some spice to your eggs.
Gas Reliever
Basil tea has a reputation for easing certain digestive disorders because of a compound in it called eugenol. Eugenol has been shown to relieve muscle spasms. To relieve gas and stomach cramps just make a soothing teal with it.
Here’s how:
Pour 1/2 cup of boiling water over one to two teaspoons of dried basil. Let it steep for 15 minutes, then strain and serve.
People who suffer from gas can benefit from basil tea by consuming 2 to 3 cups a day. Basil may also be useful against ulcers. H.pylor, a bacteria that is the cause of ulcers, stop growing when eugenol was used in a study of Indian researchers. If you can shop for the organic basil it has more antioxidants. Another beneficial way to get this herb, add some to your lettuce and spinach. Other nutrients from it are calcium, iron, magnesium and potassium. Keep it in sealed tight to maintain its nutritious compounds.
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