EO Spotlight: Basil

I have to say, basil isn’t one of those oils that I immediately fell in love with aroma-wise, but (similar to DigestZen) it has proven to be one of the biggest powerhouses in supporting my health. 

Basil (species name: Ocimum Basilicum) essential oil is steam-distilled from the basil herb; a part of the mint family. We usually encounter this aromatic herb in certain dishes like margherita pizza, or Thai curries. Although it is best known for its culinary properties, it is actually one of the most universally applicable oils; in fact, the word basil is derived from the Greek word meaning “king” (1).  

Ancient Greeks believed this oil opened the gateway to heaven (1), and if you’ve ever experienced migraines, dizziness, earaches, nausea, and/or other adrenal-related symptoms and applied this oil, you probably know they were onto something! 

The primary chemical components of basil include linalool, methylchavicol, and eugenol, giving this potent, pure oil stimulating, neurotonic, regenerative, steroidal, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and digestive properties (1). 
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Linalool, the primary constituent of basil, has been demonstrated to interact across multiple receptors of the monoaminergic system of the brain (including neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and the adrenergic system) when taken internally, suggesting it’s potential in mood balancing and reducing feelings of sadness (2). 

Top Uses:

Basil’s top uses include (1): 

• Diluting and applying topically under the nose, across forehead, back of the neck, adrenal area and bottoms of feet to support the adrenals
  
•  Applying behind the ears, back of neck, and swabbing the very outer part of the ear canal to provide relief from earache
  
• Applying under the nose to regain sense of smell
  
• Applying with wintergreen, spearmint, or peppermint to provide relief from migraines
  
• Applying to the spine and bottoms of feet to support the body in relieving muscle spasms, inflammation, rheumatism, and gout 
  
• Diffusing to create mental focus and emotional relaxation 
  
• Adding 1 drop to 4oz of water or to a veggie cap to ease abdominal discomfort and cramping
  
• Create an insect repellent spray by adding a 10-15 drops to a (glass) water spray bottle; you can also apply (diluted) topically to a bite! 
  

I personally used basil 2x daily for over a year to support adrenal health, and continue to use it any time my body is undergoing added stress: illness, infection, menstruation, emotional/mental overwhelm. I notice its soothing, neurotonic effects almost immediately!

I hope you find this information helpful as you continue to grow your natural remedy arsenal. 
To continued relief from overwhelm and supporting the body in its infinite potential to HEAL,
Jadi

References:

1. The Essential Life 5th Ed. (2018). Section 3: Natural Solutions, Basil (p. 80-81). 
   
2. https://www.doterra.com/US/en/blog/spotlight-basil-oil​