The Health Benefits of the Herb Basil
Basil is mostly known for its use in cooking, as a flavoursome herb. You can use either fresh basil, or the dried basil found in stores. If you buy dried basil, you do need to ensure it is from a good manufactrer if you want to maintain its flavour and health benefits. The less processing the herb passes through , the more of its health benefits will be retained, and then consumed by you and your family.
The Nutrients in Basil
Basil is an excellent source of a variety of key nutrients, particularly vitamin C, calcium, vitamin A and phosphorus. Furthermore, basil is a useful source of magnesium, potassium and iron.
Basil has a long history of use in cooking, going back even to the Greek civilization, and probably beyond. This herb is believed to have significant health effects, particularly in improving cardiovascular health. Furthermore, basil is a particularly good source of vitamin A, which is a key nutrient for strong eyesight, plus healthy skin and hair. Basil contains high concentrations of carotenoids such as beta carotene, and these substances are converted to vitamin A in the body. Beta carotene offers even stronger benefits than vitamin A alone, and it is known to be a powerful antioxidant.
The importance of antioxidants revolves around their ability to help prevent the cell damage that occurs from free radicals in the body. Free radicals are a natural presence in the body, however, if they get out of control they are thought to cause cell damage that can lead to cancer. Some reseachers now claim that the damage done by these free radicals can be reduced or prevented by eating a diet that is rich in antioxidant vitamins such as beta carotene.
Basil as a Culinary Delight
Apart from its health benefits, basil is one of the tastiest herbs from a culinary point of view, and it is for its flavour that basil is most well known. In fact, the health benefits of basil are probably a revelation to some people. Basil is used widely in international cuisines, and is particularly favoured in Italy, so is a part of the Mediterranean diet.
Of you are using dried basil, however, it is best to stick to the better known brands whose manufacturing process should be more reliable. It is better still, though, to grow your own basil when possible and use the herb fresh. That way you will know all of the basil's health properties are still intact. Basil is fairly straighforward to grow, and not expensive, so even if you are not an avid gardener, there is a chance you will be able to produce a tasty end product.
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