Basil is a culinary herb, but its essential oil is also used in aromatherapy. It is believed to have a number of medicinal properties beneficial to a variety of health problems. Basil has been used throughout history by ancient civilizations both in culinary dishes and medicinally. However, remember to also pay attention to circumstances in which basil essential oil is contraindicated for use in aromatherapy. Check with a qualified healthcare professional before using basil in aromatherapy.
Historic Use
According to Patricia Davis, in "Aromatherapy: An A-Z," basil has been highly prized by the Greeks since ancient times. However, before basil was brought to Europe it was native to Asia, and was used in both Indian and Chinese traditional medicine. Julia Lawless, in "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils," writes that basil was used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat coughs, colds, bronchitis and asthma while the Chinese used basil to treat stomach complaints.
Essential Oil
Basil essential oil is extracted by steam distillation of the leaves and flowers of the small, annual herb. The essential oil is pale yellow in color, although the oil can sometimes be colorless too. Lawless writes that sweet basil essential oil, also known as French basil, has a sweet-spicy scent. Do not confuse sweet basil oil used in aromatherapy with other types of basil, such as bush basil from India. Other types of basil oil do not possess the same aromatic properties. Although other types of basil are used for culinary dishes, only sweet basil is suitable for aromatherapy use. Check for the Latin name of sweet basil, Ocimum basilicum, to identify the exact species from which the essential oil was extracted from.
Benefits
Use basil essential oil in aromatherapy to treat bronchitis, sinusitis, insect bites, colds, flu, anxiety, depression, insomnia and migraine. Davis writes that basil is also good for clearing mental fatigue. Basil is antiseptic, anti-depressant, digestive and restorative in its actions. Remember to check with a qualified healthcare professional before using basil in aromatherapy.
How to Use
Davis advises to massage basil over the stomach to ease digestive problems. Use basil in a massage oil over the abdomen to ease painful periods. Basil is thought to be a stimulating oil when used correctly in aromatherapy. However, overuse of basil can cause lethargy. Always apply basil essential oil to the body in carrier lotion or oil, such as sunflower oil. Inhaling basil by an aromatherapy diffuser is believed to be an effective treatment for respiratory conditions. Check with your healthcare professional before using basil in aromatherapy.
Cautions
Avoid the use of basil in pregnancy. Basil may cause irritation if you have sensitive skin because of its chemical components. Sweet, or French basil is the preferred essential oil for aromatherapy use. Lawless writes that exotic basil contains components that may be carcinogenic and is more toxic than sweet basil. Do not use basil oil undiluted on the skin. Remember to check with your health professional before using basil in aromatherapy.
References
- "The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils"; Julia Lawless; 1995
- "Aromatherapy: An A-Z"; Patricia Davis; 1999
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