Oilology: Sweet Basil

Besides being one of the most loved herbs to cook with for its ability to infuse any savoury dish with its divine flavour, basil has a myriad of health benefits too. Concentrated in the essential oil, basil is packed full of minerals and vitamins such as magnesium, potassium, iron, calcium and vitamin A. It assists with stomach problems such as nausea, motion sickness, constipation and indigestion. Basil is good for cold, flu, influenza, coughs, fevers, respiratory issues and all the wintry ills. It improves circulation, relieves pain and is popular in aromatherapy and massage therapy.

For skin beauty, basil is often used in lotions as it enhances the skin’s natural lustre and glow. It can treat infections and can help with eczema. It can also improve uneven skin tone.

Use basil essential oil topically and diluted in a carrier oil (coconut oil is good) for skin. For respiratory ailments, make a chest rub or diffuse in a burner. You can add to your bath or a massage blend for muscles or flu symptoms.

Simply inhaling the vapours is also highly effective.

Basil essential oil blends well with bergamot, clary sage, clove bud, geranium, lime, lemon, juniper, eucalyptus, neroli, marjoram, rosemary, and lavender.

Basil Vapour Rub

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup olive oil
• ½ cup refined coconut oil
• ¼ cup grated beeswax or beeswax pellets
• 20 drops Peppermint essential oil
• 20 drops Eucalyptus essential oil
• 10 drops Lavender essential oil
• 10 drops Basil essential oil
• 10 drops Rosemary essential oil
• 10 drops cypress or pine essential oil (optional)
• ½ tsp Vitamin E oil (optional but is a natural preservative)
• Glass jar or heat proof container
• Storage jars