Basil

Basil, and its essential oil, is used for fevers, colds, rheumatism, and indigestion. However, there is no evidence of their effectiveness, and because compounds in the oil have shown cancer-causing effects during animal experiments, their medicinal use is not recommended. Basil oil has been used to treat wounds, bruises, and depression. The leaves have been used, without validation, as an appetite stimulant, a remedy for gas, and a means of ridding the body of excess fluid. In Asian medicine, the leaves are also used to treat poor circulation, stomach cramps, bad breath, inflammations, clouded vision, earache, kidney disease, and ringworm.

Regular medicinal use is not recommended for anyone. Pregnant or nursing women, infants, and toddlers should not take the herb at all. No side effects have been documented. No drug interactions have been reported. This information is for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor.