Popular as a seasoning, the basil is a versatile herb that can provide a number of health benefits. Despite its Asian origin, basil has become an icon of Mediterranean cuisine and came to Brazil along with the Italian immigration.

One tablespoon of basil contains:

• Calories: 1.3 kcal

• Carbohydrates 0.18 g

• Proteins 0.1 g

• Total Fats 0.02 g

• Saturated fats 0 g

• Dietary fiber 0.17 g

• Sodium 0 mg

It can be bought fresh, dried, or frozen, but fresh basil has the best flavor.

Benefits

Basil is not only a popular remedy for ailments such as nausea and insect bites. But, it also provides beneficial plant compounds that have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and other properties.

Also read: The healthiest spices and herbs to include in your diet

Preliminary studies suggest that basil may:

• Reduce memory loss associated with stress and aging;

• Decrease depression related to chronic stress;

• Improve fasting blood sugar, cholesterol, and triglycerides;

• Reduce blood pressure in people with hypertension;

• Increase mental alertness when inhaled as aromatherapy;

• Inhibit the growth of bacteria that cause tooth decay;

• Provide an alternative to antibiotics for infectious diseases, including combating drug-resistant strains of bacteria;

• Repel insects, such as mosquitoes and ticks.

Basil: How to consume

Basil adds flavor to tomato dishes, salads, zucchini, eggplant, meat dressings, stuffing, soups, sauces, and more. In addition, it complements other herbs and spices, such as garlic, marjoram, mustard, oregano, paprika, parsley, pepper, rosemary, and sage.

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How to grow

The herb requires little water, but it is important to water it constantly. Finally, leave the plant in a warm, bright place and avoid touching the leaves, which darken with touch. But, only harvest the leaf, so another will grow in its place.

Basil Tea: Benefits and How to Prepare the Drink

O basil is a spice beloved by many and, in addition, it makes a delicious drink: basil tea Among its benefits, the herb is excellent for health, as is the tea made from its leaves. A source of vitamins, the tea is especially rich in vitamins A, C, E, and K. In addition, it is rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, which explains its numerous health benefits. Moreover, it contains essential minerals in its composition, such as iron, manganese, and potassium.

Basil Tea: Benefits

Improves breathing

Its anti-inflammatory action provides improved respiration, preventing the occurrence of colds, flu, and other infections that can affect the respiratory system. In addition, the leaves have antibacterial properties.

Thus, the tea helps in the elimination of mucus in the respiratory tract. Also, it can relieve fever.

Basil tea fights bad breath

This tea helps combat bad breath - which can be caused by illness, poor hygiene, dehydration, or the consumption of certain foods.

Benefits kidney health

Highly hydrating, it prevents water retention and, not only that, it benefits the health of the kidneys, since it helps eliminate toxins. Therefore, it contributes to the better functioning of the urinary system.

Read also: Best foods for kidney health

Basil tea relieves pain

It can prevent, for example, kidney stones, and relieve pain, such as migraine. It also helps prevent muscle spasms.

How to consume basil tea

With 10 leaves and 1 liter of water, you can make this excellent tea.

Finally, basil can be easily found in Brazil - in fairs, in markets, in natural product stores.