Basil – The Best Remedy for Coughs and Colds
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Basil is an herb that is mainly used as a condiment for various dishes. In the past few years, it has also a popular natural treatment, due to its antibacterial, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The flowers and leaves of the basil are rich in chemical compounds that can promote health and prevent disease. So, this plant contains omega-3 fats, vitamins K, C and A, magnesium, manganese, iron, calcium and copper. These ingredients are extremely beneficial for the overall wellness and for this reason basil has been included in numerous home remedies. So, you can use basil for the following conditions:
Cough
Numerous expectorants and cough syrups contain basil. Still, if you don’t want to spend money on over the counter medicines, you can prepare your own home remedy. Thus, mix one cup of water with 5 cloves and 8 basil leaves and let it boil for around 10 minutes. Add a pinch of salt and then let the tea cool. Drink it several times per day to get relief from coughing. If you have a sore throat caused by cough, you can use simple basil tea to gargle. Basil is also efficient in treating asthma and bronchitis.
Common Cold
The common cold and the fever associated with it can also be treated with basil leaves. In order to get rid of flus and colds, you can chew fresh basil leaves. Consume tender basil leaves boiled in water when there is the dengue fever and malaria season. Mix powdered cardamom with basil leaves and boil them in a glass of water. Consume this decoction if you have acute fever.
Acne
If you suffer from acne, you can use basil to speed up the healing process. This herb can also prevent the acne. The fresh basil leaves contain an oil that has antibacterial properties and eliminates the clogged pores and the bacteria. Use basil juice to apply on the affected areas and kill the bacteria. Other skin conditions that can be treated with basil are insect bites, psoriasis and ringworm. The basil also has anti-inflammatory qualities that will reduce the skin inflammation. By using basil leaves or basil oil, you can also have a healthier, suppler and softer skin.
Kidney Stones
You can improve the kidney functioning by using basil. Consume 6 fresh leaves of basil with water every morning on an empty stomach. You can also mix honey with fresh basil juice and drink the solution daily for almost half a year. This remedy will help you eliminate the kidney stones.
Headaches
Basil is an efficient home remedy for headaches. Mix sandalwood paste with pounded basil leaves and apply the solution on your forehead. The mixture will relax the muscles and will offer instant relief from headaches caused by tight muscles and tension. Drinking basil tea will also help you get rid of the annoying headaches. Boil a cup of water and add fresh basil leaves. Let it steep for a couple of minutes and then drink the tea while it’s still warm. Massaging pure basil oil on your forehead or chewing fresh basil leaves can also help you with mild headaches.
