Basil (ocimum basilicum) 

Botanical Family: Lamiaceae or laviatae (mint)

Plant origin: Egypt, India, Utah, France

Extraction method: Steam distilled from leaves, stems, and flowers

Key Constituents:

Methylchavicol (estragol) (40-80%)

Linalol (10-50%)

1,8 Cineole (1-7%)

Eugenol (1-10%)

Orac: 54,000 ute/100g

Historical Data: Used extensively in traditional Asian Indian medicine, basil’s name is derived from “basileum”, the greek name for king. In the 16th century, the powdered leaves were inhaled to treat migraines and chest infections. The Hindu people put basil sprigs on the chest of the dead to protect them from evil spirits. Italian women wore basil to attract possible suitors. It was listed in Hildegard’s Medicine, a compilation of early German medicines by highly-regarded Benedictine herbalist Hildegard of Bingen (1098-1179)

Medical properties: Powerful antispasmodic, antiviral, antibacterial, anti-inflammatory

Uses: Migraines, throat/lung infections, insect bites

Fragrant Influence: Fights mental fatigue

Application:Diffuse up to 30 minutes 3 times daily or directly inhale. Dilute 1part EO with 1 part VO; (1) apply 2-4 drops on location, temples, neck (2) Chakras/vitaflex points (crown of forehead, heart ,and naval) (3) directly inhale, (4) diffuse, or (5) take as dietary supplement

Avoid use if epileptic

Essential Oils Desk reference