Ramathulasi

  • Botanical Name : Ocimum basilicum
  • English Name : Sweet Basil
  • Sanskrit Name : Barbari
  • Malayalam Name : Ramathulasi (രാമതുളസി)
  • Part Used : Leaf
About Image

Overview

  • Ocimum basilicum L. (family Lamiaceae) is a commonly cultivated European and Asian plant with an intense herbal spicy and sweet aroma, deriving its name from the Greek ‘basileus’, meaning king or royal fragrance.
  • The green leafy herb has a folklore history; in India, it was used to ward off evil and considered sacred.

Habitat

  • Sweet basil is native to the tropical regions of Africa and Asia. Thai and Genovese basil are cultivars of this plant.
  • Fragrant edible leaves are excellent in soups, stews, and meat dishes. Sweet basil prefers full sun and moist, well-drained soils.
  • It is an herbaceous plant with an erect growth habit and branching stems. The herbaceous, aromatic stem is 4-sided and hairless (or sometimes slightly hairy), tending to branch. Small, white flowers (1 cm long) have an upper and lower lip, with the lower lip slightly larger.

Phytochemistry

  • Ocimum basilicum, known for its ornamental and therapeutic importance, contains terpenoids, alkaloids, flavonoids, tannins, saponin glycosides, and ascorbic acid.
  • Basil contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants such as lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin. Many health benefits come from these antioxidants and essential oils, mostly preserved in fresh basil.
Nutritional Prowess Image

Nutritional Prowess

  • Basil is rich in antioxidants, including anthocyanins, and beta-carotene, combating free radicals to reduce the risk of health conditions like cancer, heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes.
  • Some studies suggest basil in the diet may help reduce high blood sugar levels and mitigate long-term effects.
  • Eugenol in basil can block calcium channels, aiding in blood pressure reduction. Essential oils can help lower cholesterol and triglycerides, and magnesium promotes improved blood flow.
  • Basil’s essential oils, including eugenol, linalool, and citronellol, combat inflammation, lowering the risk of conditions like arthritis, heart disease, and bowel issues.

Dermatological Perks

  • Basil’s antibacterial properties help fight bacteria, offering protection against respiratory, urinary, abdominal, or skin infections.
  • Basil aids in preventing acne due to its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Basil, with natural oils, acts as a natural cleanser, removing excess oil and impurities.
  • Basil soothes and calms the skin, reducing swelling and pain associated with acne.
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