Basil is one of my mother’s favorite herbs. She uses in a multitude of Italian dishes. One of her favorite things to use it for is tomato sauce. I also love to use basil and I love the smell of it. Basil goes well with most pasta dishes and especially pesto. It is also easy to grow on your windowsill. Just pull off the leaves you need to use and enjoy the fragrance in the meantime. But the big question is how healthy is it for you?
Health Benefits of Basil
The essential oil of basil is known to inhibit the growth of several types of bacteria. In addition, it has been able to inhibit many forms of bacteria that are resistant to antibiotics. Eating it with your meals and in your salad and help you fight any lurking bacteria such as staphylococcus, enterococcus, pseudomonas, and e. coli bacteria.
We all know the importance of eating foods that have an anti-inflammatory effect. Much like Ibruprofen which works on the enzyme cyclooxygenase, basil does the same making it a powerful herb that can help with rheumatoid arthritis.
We can always use more foods and herbs that help prevent cell damage by free radicals. Basil is another one to add to your list! The source of vitamin A in basil makes it a powerful agent against free radicals. In addition, it can help keep cholesterol from building up in your blood vessels
So what other healthy stuff is in basil? You will find magnesium which improves blood flow, iron, calcium, potassium and vitamin C.
Basil is delicious and healthy! Here is a traditional recipe that highlights the full flavor of basil and make a great appetizer or salad.
Caprese
1/2 pound, fresh mozzerella, sliced 1/4 inch thick.
2 large tomatoes, sliced 1/4 inch thick.
1 cup fresh basil leaves.
salt and pepper
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil.
Using a serving plate, arrange mozzerella and tomato alternating mozzerella and tomato slices.
Tear up the basil leaves, and sprinkle them on top of the tomatoes and mozerella cheese.
Season with a bit of salt and pepper.