How to Use Basil Essential Oil
How to use basil essential oil
Basil essential oil is still distilled from the leaves and flowering tops of Ocimum Basilicum. It possesses a sweet, spicy, slightly green, fresh top note and balsamic and woody undertone.
The oil’s main components are linalool, methyl chavicol, methyl eugenol, (E)- methyl cinnamate and eugenol.
Historically the plant was highly prised. It was considered a king among plants.
Basil was recommended by Pliny against jaundice and epilepsy, and as a diuretic. It was also used as an aphrodisiac. In the Middle Ages it was prescribed for melancholy and depression.
Basil essential oil was found to have potent antimicrobial and antifungal properties.
Here are the therapeutic properties of the oil
- Analgesic
- Antidepressant
- Antiseptic
- Antispasmodic for respiratory congestion
- Carminative (settles the digestive system)
- Cephalic (clears the mind, is relaxing and sedative for digestive insomnia)
- Digestive (relieves nausea, gastric spasms)
- Emmenagogue (regulates menstrual flow)
- Expectorant
- Febrifuge (cooling)
- Nervine
- Sudorific (increases perspiration)
Basil oil has been used in low dilutions to improve the tone and appearance of the skin.
The oil is recommended for people who are physically and mentally exhausted, suffer from nervous depression. It is uplifting, awakening, clarifying, and stimulating.
How to use basil essential oil
Topically in
- massage diluted in a carrier: 1-3 drops in a spoon
- inhalation direct from the bottle
- diffuser up to 5 drops
- skincare 1 drop in a spoon of carrier.
Safety for how to use basil essential oil
People with sensitive skin should avoid using the oil. It is contraindicated during pregnancy.
