From steam distillation of the leaves of basil, scientific name Ocimum basilico, plant belonging to the Lamiaceae family, an essential oil is obtained. This essential oil has decongestant, antiseptic and calming properties, in addition to this it is also able to balance the intestinal flora. You can use this essential oil in case of poor digestion but also cold, bronchitis, otitis, sinusitis, headache and migraine, rheumatism. You can apply it also on insect bites or in order to fortify the hair and to prevent their loss. From the emotional point of view basil essential oil promotes concentration and attention, it stimulates the mind. Don’t use if you suffer from epilepsy or convulsion, during pregnancy or breastfeeding, in children.
Cold, sinusitis, bronchitis
Thanks to the antiseptic, decongestant and expectorant properties basil essential oil is useful to treat a lot of diseases of the respiratory tract such as cough, rhinitis, cold, flu, asthma and bronchitis. You can prepare steam inhalation by heating a bowl full of water, remove from heat and add 5 drops of essential oil.
Scalp, skin and hair
Basil essential oil has stimulating properties, it makes the hair stronger, reactivates microcirculation and promotes hair growth. You can add ten drops of basil essential oil to the shampoo and massage the scalp. In case of acne or wounds bring to boil a cup of water, remove then from heat and let it cool down. Add 15 drops of basil essential oil and apply on skin by using a soaked gauzed. You can also add 5 drops to a little face cream and apply it on the irritated skin or on insect bites. If diffused in the room this essential oil can act as a mosquito repellent.
Poor digestion, stomach cramps, abdominal bloating
In case of spasms, cramps and poor digestion it can be useful to massage the abdomen with a spoon of olive oil or wheat germ oil and 5 drops of basil essential oil. In order to protect the bacterial flora try to take a teaspoon of honey with a drop of essential oil.
Muscular cramps, rheumatism
You can massage the part affected by cramps or rheumatism by mixing a tablespoon of wheat germ oil and ten drops of basil essential oil, apply with slow movements.
Emotional sphere
basil essential oil promotes concentration, it is indicated for those people who have to reflect on situations, or have to do mathematical calculations, for those people who get easily distracted or have a lot of thoughts, it promotes mental clarity and eliminates confusion. Useful if you feel tired or depressed. You can breathe some drops of basil essential oil poured on a handkerchief or diffuse the essence in the room, 1 drop each square meter.