Basil is a popular herb used in many cuisines around the world. It’s a great source of vitamins and minerals, and it offers several benefits for your health.
1.
Anti-inflammatory properties: Basil contains eugenol, a natural anti-inflammatory compound that can help reduce inflammation in the body. This can be beneficial for conditions like arthritis and inflammatory bowel disease.
2.
Antioxidant benefits: Basil is rich in antioxidants, which help protect your cells from damage caused by free radicals. This can help reduce your risk of chronic diseases like cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s.
3.
Improved digestion: Basil contains compounds that can help improve digestion by reducing gas, bloating, and constipation. It can also help stimulate appetite and promote healthy bowel movements.
4.
Reduced stress: Basil contains adaptogenic compounds that can help your body adapt to stress and reduce the impact of stress on your health.
5.
Lowered risk of infections: Basil contains antimicrobial compounds that can help prevent infections caused by bacteria, viruses, and fungi. This can help support your immune system and reduce your risk of illness.
It’s important to note that the nutritional facts listed here are based on one cup of chopped basil. However, it’s unlikely that you would consume this much basil in one sitting. Adding a few leaves of basil to your meals can still provide some of these benefits, but in smaller amounts ;).