KOMPAS.com – Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is a plant that is widely known as a complement to fresh vegetables.
This plant is usually served with cabbage and cucumber, as culinary vegetables, such as fried chicken, penyet, or grilled.
There are various types of basil that have different taste and aroma characteristics, such as sweet basil, Greek basil, Thai basil, cinnamon basil, and lettuce basil.
Also read: Tempeh recipe with basil sauce, a delicious simple side dish
Apart from that, there is also holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum or Ocimum sanctum) which is often used in traditional medicine and herbal teas.
Benefits of basil
Basil, which is a complement to fresh vegetables, turns out to have health benefits. Here are the health benefits of basil based on preliminary research:
1. Improve brain health
Studies show that basil extract may help reduce memory loss due to stress and aging.
2. Reduces symptoms of depression
The content in basil is thought to be able to reduce depression caused by chronic stress.
3. Supports post-stroke recovery
Administering basil extract before or immediately after a stroke can reduce brain damage.
4. Lower blood sugar and cholesterol
Sweet basil can help control blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglycerides.
Also read: Recipe for Stir-fried Oncom Basil Leaves, a Practical Lunch Side Dish
5. Lower blood pressure
Consuming basil can help lower blood pressure in hypertension sufferers.
6. Protects the digestive system
Basil extract can prevent stomach damage caused by aspirin, including preventing the formation of stomach ulcers.
7. Increase mental alertness
Inhaling the aroma of basil as aromatherapy can increase alertness.
Basil illustration.
8. Prevent cancer
Compounds in basil have the potential to prevent breast, colon and pancreatic cancer.
9. Treat infections and insect repellants
Basil is known to inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay and is even used as an alternative to antibiotics. Apart from that, the essential oil can be used as a mosquito and tick repellent.
safety and side effects
Although it is safe to consume in small amounts, there are several things you need to pay attention to:
Interaction with blood thinning drugs
Basil is rich in vitamin K which can affect the effectiveness of blood thinning drugs such as warfarin.
Also read: Often used as fresh vegetables, what are the benefits of basil leaves?
Effect on blood pressure and blood sugar
Basil extract can lower blood pressure and blood sugar, so its use needs to be supervised by a doctor for those who are taking related medications.
Risks for pregnant women
Holy basil is not recommended for pregnant women or couples trying to have children, as it can affect sperm and trigger contractions.
Basil allergy
Although rare, some people can experience an allergic reaction to basil.
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