

Learn about foods that can help boost skin health. However, the antioxidants in basil and other plant-based foods may have a protective effect if a person consumes them as part of a varied diet. While extracts of basil at certain doses may have this effect, consuming basil will not necessarily benefit the skin. The results suggested that including basil extracts in topical skin creams might improve skin hydration and reduce roughness and wrinkling. In the study, the scientists applied a basil extract to laboratory models of skin. Protecting against skin agingĪccording to research published in 2011, sweet basil has properties that might help protect the skin from some effects of aging.

Is there a link between cancer and the diet? Find out here. Confirming the effects will require further research. However, the studies in this review were preclinical or performed in animals. They appeared to do this by increasing antioxidant activity, changing gene expression, triggering cell death, and slowing cell division. The authors concluded that the phytochemicals in holy basil may help prevent certain types of skin, liver, oral, and lung cancers. Fighting cancerĪ review published in 2013 looked at whether tulsi, or holy basil, could prevent cancer. Tulsi - a plant that is very different from the basil in the average Western supermarket - plays a role in Indian traditional medicine. The scientists applied the powder after using a toxin to induce liver injury. Supporting liver healthĪ 2015 study in rats concluded that antioxidants in a powdered preparation that included tulsi, or holy basil, had a positive impact on liver health. Which foods are good sources of antioxidants? Find out here. Among the many antioxidants in basil are anthocyanins and beta carotene. The body produces some antioxidants, but it also needs to absorb some from the diet. Scientists have linked cancer, heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, and other health issues to oxidative stress. If they build up instead, oxidative stress can occur, resulting in cell damage and, possibly, disease. They can also form as a result of smoking and some dietary choices.Īntioxidants are compounds that help remove these molecules from the body.
BASIL LEAF FREE
Reducing oxidative stressĪntioxidants are essential for eliminating free radicals from the body.įree radicals are unstable molecules that develop as a result of metabolism and other natural processes. Both eugenol and limonene have antioxidant properties. Lime and lemon basils have high concentrations of limonene, which give them a citrusy scent. Sweet basil, for example, has a high concentration of the chemical agent eugenol. Traditional uses include the treatment of snakebites, colds, and inflammation within nasal passages - a common effect of colds, for example.īasil provides some macronutrients, such as calcium and vitamin K, as well as a range of antioxidants. Share on Pinterest Consuming basil may help reduce oxidative stress.īasil may provide health benefits in the diet, as herbal medicine, and as an essential oil.
