HERBAL HEALTH

The health benefits of herbs

BASIL is a great source of carotenoids, antioxidants also found in carrots, spinach and red peppers which help keep the heart healthy and offer some UV protection to the skin.

The journal Hypertensive Research reported in 2010 that Chinese researchers had shown that a basil extract helped to lower blood pressure in rats, possibly though inhibiting levels of chemicals called endothelins, which constrict blood vessels.

Essential basil oil, obtained from the plant’s leaves, is also thought to inhibit bacteria that cause food poisoning. When Romanian scientists tested the antimicrobial activity of plant oils against various bacteria, basil oil was one of the most effective, particularly against E.coli, salmonella and listeria. Use handfuls of basil in pesto and tomato salads, drizzling with oil to ensure you absorb more carotenoids. Culinary essential basil oil (available online) can be used in home-made burgers and may deter the growth of harmful bugs.