Basil nutrition

• Like most other mints, basil is often recommended for digestive complaints. 
• It is useful to enhance digestion and dispel gas when drunk in a tea after a meal. 
• To prepare the tea, pour 1 cup of hot (not boiling) water over about 1 teaspoon of dried herb and steep for 6 – 7 minutes. Strain and drink, adding honey if desired to sweeten.
• A basil infusion (tea) is recommended for treating vomiting, stomach cramps, diarrhea and constipation. Having slight sedative properties, it can be useful for headaches and anxiety especially in combination with other sedating herbs like chamomile and catnip.
• Basil is an expectorant, making it good for treating upper respiratory symptoms of colds, flu, asthma and bronchitis. 
• As an anti-inflammatory food, basil can provide healing and relief of symptoms of ailments like rheumatoid arthritis and inflammatory bowel complaints.
• Bruised or crushed basil leaves will ease the pain of insect bites and stings and can be used on skin infections. 
• Sprigs of basil burned on the barbecue will repel mosquitoes and a pot of basil in a windowsill will discourage flies.
• Along with its medicinal value, basil is nutritionally rich in anti-aging antioxidants, vitamins and minerals. 
• Delicious, nutritious and an effective natural treatment for many common ailments, basil is a must for your outdoor or indoor organic herb garden.