The oil is of watery viscosity and is pale greenish-yellow in color. The aroma is clear, light and peppery and gives a sweet, green top note to blends. The essential oil comes from from North Africa, Cypress, Seychelles and Europe.

Origin of basil

Basil originates from tropical Asia and the Pacific Islands but is now cultivated throughout Europe and the USA. The plant is an annual hairy herb growing up to 1 meter (3 feet).

The flowers range from white to pink, depending on the species and attract swarms of bees in summer time. Basilicum comes from the Greek word 'Basilicos' meaning 'king' or 'royal'.

A much favored herb in India, it is held sacred to Krishna and Vishnu, and the leaves are even chewed before taking part in Religious ceremonies. 

It is said to have protective qualities, a Basil leave is placed on the chest of a Hindu when resting. It is used in Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine.

Extraction

The oil is extracted by steam distillation from the leaves and the flowering tops.

Chemical composition

Basil oil has various chemical compounds that include: Linalol, Camphor, Pinene, Eugenol and Methylchavicol.

Precautions

Although Basil usually stimulates, in excess it can have a stupefying effect. It should not be used during pregnancy or on children under 16 years. 

Basil can irritate a sensitive skin and must be avoided during pregnancy.

Therapeutic properties

The therapeutic properties of basil oil include the following: analgesic, antidepressant, antispasmodic, anti-venomous, carminative, digestive, emmenagogue, expectorant, febrifuge, insecticide, stomachic, tonic and stimulant.

Uses

Basil oil is a good tonic for the treatment of nervous disorders and stress related headaches, migraines and allergies.

It has a beneficial action on the respiratory tract; it is often used for asthma, bronchitis and sinus infections. Basil is also effective in the case of constipation, nausea, vomiting and cramp, and also with menstrual problems.

It helps to minimize uric acid in the blood, thus relieving gout. It refreshes the skin and helps control acne.

Summary

Basil oil is a very beneficial oil and can be helpful not only for headaches and migraines, but also has an uplifting effect on depression.

It is effective in digestive disorders, ranging from nausea to hiccups and for infections in the respiratory tract. It is useful for wasp and insect bites, particularly that of mosquitoes.

Burners and vaporizers

In vapor therapy Basil oil can be used for migraines, headaches and concentration.

Blended in the bath

Basil oil in a warm bath could help relieve gout and muscular as well menstrual pains.

Although essential oils blend well with each other, Basil oil goes particularly well with oils such as: Bergamot, Black Pepper, Cedarwood, Fennel, Ginger, Geranium, Grapefruit, Lavender, Lemon, Marjoram, and Neroli.