Basil – a familiar herb in every Vietnamese home garden – not only enhances the flavor of dishes but is also considered a precious medicinal herb in Traditional Oriental Medicine, offering numerous health benefits when used appropriately. With its spicy and warm properties, basil stimulates the lung, spleen, and heart meridians, promoting perspiration, relieving colds, aiding digestion, and alleviating allergy symptoms.
Below are the prominent benefits of basil leaf water along with essential notes to maximize its effectiveness while avoiding undesirable side effects.
**1. Basil leaf water effectively relieves colds and promotes perspiration**
One of the most remarkable benefits of basil leaves in traditional medicine is treating the common cold. When experiencing symptoms such as chills, a stuffy nose, sneezing, or a mild fever, basil leaf water stimulates the sweat glands, warms the body, and expels cold air.
Instructions:
– Use 15–20g of fresh basil leaves and rinse them thoroughly.
– Add a few slices of fresh ginger and boil with 300ml of water for about 5–7 minutes.
– Drink while it is still warm and then cover yourself with a light blanket to induce mild perspiration.
– This method, known as “promoting perspiration to release the exterior” in Oriental Medicine, is especially suitable for the initial stages of a cold. However, it should only be applied when the cold is caused by exposure to cold, not in cases of high fever, dry mouth, and thirst, which indicate a heat-induced cold.
**2. Soothes allergies, hives, and itchy skin**
Basil possesses detoxifying and cooling properties, helping to cool the blood and effectively addressing food allergies (especially seafood), skin rashes, hives, or skin irritation caused by allergens.
Usage instructions:
– Boil a handful of basil leaves with 300ml of water, let it cool slightly, and then drink.
– Optionally, rinse the affected skin area with basil leaf water or gently steam your body.
– This drink not only soothes the skin but also boosts immunity and improves allergy-prone constitutions, making it ideal for children and individuals with weak immune systems.
**3. Aids digestion and reduces bloating and abdominal distension**
In addition to its role in relieving colds and allergies, basil leaf water improves digestion, especially for those who frequently experience bloating, indigestion, or postprandial fatigue.
Instructions:
– Use 10–15g of fresh basil leaves or 5–7g of dried leaves, boil them with two slices of ginger and 300ml of water.
– Drink 30 minutes before a meal.
– Continue this regimen for 5–7 days to notice significant improvements.
– Basil stimulates qi, strengthens the spleen, reduces bloating and belching, and is highly beneficial for the elderly or those with weak digestion.
**Important notes when using basil leaf water**
Although basil leaf water offers numerous health benefits, improper use may lead to adverse effects. Here are some crucial considerations:
1. Avoid overconsumption: Basil has a warming effect, and excessive consumption can cause internal heat, restlessness, and acne breakouts. Limit your intake to one or two glasses (maximum 500ml) per day, and do not use continuously for more than 10 days.
2. Do not boil for too long: The essential oils in basil, which are responsible for its therapeutic effects, are highly volatile. Therefore, gently boil the basil for only 5–10 minutes to avoid losing its medicinal properties.
3. Do not use in cases of heat-induced colds: Individuals with high fever, dry mouth, red lips, and thirst should refrain from drinking basil leaf water as it may aggravate their condition.
4. Consult a doctor if taking medication: If you are undergoing treatment with Western medicine or have a chronic illness, consult your doctor before using basil leaf water as a complementary therapy to avoid drug interactions or interference with your ongoing treatment.
5. Proper storage: Fresh basil leaves should be used immediately after harvesting to retain their medicinal properties. Dry leaves should be stored in a cool, dry, and dark place to prevent mold and loss of aroma.
Basil is a readily available herb and medicinal plant that, when used appropriately, can become a valuable ally for your family’s health. From relieving colds and aiding digestion to soothing allergies, basil leaf water is truly a gift from nature. However, remember to use it in moderation and listen to your body to ensure safety and effectiveness.
