What are the benefits of drinking basil water?
Fights against respiratory diseases
Research has shown that basil leaf extracts can inhibit the multiplication of the SARS-CoV-2 virus in multiple ways. This makes basil leaves a natural and friendly remedy to prevent the growth of not only the SARS-CoV-2 virus but also other respiratory viruses.
Furthermore, the extracts from basil leaves are also effective in treating asthma as they improve air circulation and lung function. This information is cited from a study published in the Archives of Allergy And Immunology.
Improves skin complexion
The active compounds in basil leaves, such as Priseril, help improve pigmentation and remove dead skin cells effectively. Therefore, basil leaves can make the skin more even-toned and radiant. Additionally, the vitamin E content in basil leaves enhances moisturization and helps to achieve smooth skin.
Anti-allergic, cardiovascular and nervous system protection
Extracts obtained from basil leaves can inhibit allergic reactions inside the body. The Omega-3 fatty acids in basil leaves have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and they also serve as an energy source to enhance brain function. This helps to prevent memory loss in older people. Omega-3, in particular, when absorbed daily, also supports cardiovascular health.
Treats gout and aids digestion
There are four active compounds in basil leaves that can reduce xanthine oxidase, an enzyme that produces uric acid and causes gout. Through experiments, it has been proven that daily use of basil leaf extract improves discomfort in the digestive system, acid reflux, and mild constipation in irritable bowel syndrome.
Cancer prevention
A large amount of luteolin, rosmarinic acid, and triterpenes in basil leaves have been proven to have the ability to fight against hidden cancer cells in the body.
Treats skin conditions
Drinking basil water can improve conditions such as itching and hives on the skin. Daily consumption of this water is especially effective in alleviating the symptoms of irritability and itching in people with hives.
Aids in weight loss
Basil water is rich in plant-based proteins, minerals, fiber, and vitamins, which accelerate the digestion process in the stomach, reducing the risk of overweight and obesity.
How to make basil water and remedies from basil leaves
Ingredients:
– 300~400g purple basil leaves
– 2 liters of water
– 500~1kg sugar (according to desired sweetness)
– 15~20g citric acid (according to desired sourness)
If citric acid is not available, it can be replaced with lemon juice.
Method:
Cut the purple basil leaves, remove the stems, and rinse them thoroughly.
Place a pot on the stove, add 2 liters of water, bring to a boil, and add the basil leaves to stir well until the water turns green. Cook for about 3 to 5 minutes until the leaves lose their color, leaving only green leaves. Remove the basil leaves and strain them. Let the water cool and then squeeze out the liquid.
Add 500g of rock sugar to the basil water and cook on low heat, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely. If rock sugar is not available, it can be replaced with white granulated sugar.
Boil the water gently for about 3 minutes, then turn off the heat. Do not boil for too long, as the water will evaporate.
Add 20g of citric acid to the basil water (if not available, replace it with 2 tablespoons of lemon juice). Stir well, and the water will change into a beautiful color.
After removing the basil leaves, let them cool and squeeze out all the liquid.
The squeezed basil leaves can be used to make natural whitening and exfoliating facial masks.
Remedies from basil leaves:
It is recommended to drink basil water 10-30 minutes before each meal to prevent the absorption of fat and reduce the amount of food intake.
Here are some remedies with basil leaves:
Take the peel of an orange, wash it thoroughly, and slice it along with 3 thick slices of ginger and a handful of fresh or dried basil leaves. Put them in a pot, add a bowl of water, boil well, drink hot, and cover up with a warm blanket to treat a cold.
Take a handful of fresh basil leaves, 2 onions, and 3 slices of ginger. Chop them all, beat an egg, and mix the egg with the herbal mixture. Eat it hot to relieve discomfort.
Crush the basil leaves and mix them with a bowl of water, adding a little salt to drink at once to relieve stomach pain and bloating.
Take the stems of the basil leaves and the white part of the strawberry roots, boil them to obtain a cup of water to drink to treat coughing and shortness of breath.