The Repurposing Life

Basil Essential Oil Health and Beauty Benefits

Basil (Ocimum basilicum L.), also called great basil, is an edible, fragrant leafy herb belonging to the family Lamiaceae (mints). It is a tender plant (non–hardy, lack of tolerance to climatic adversity, unable to tolerate cold, heat, drought, flooding or wind) that is used in cuisines worldwide. In Western (European) cuisine, the generic term “basil” refers to the variety also known as Sweet basil or Genovese basil, which is used in fresh, dried and essential oil forms.

Basil is native to tropical regions from Central Africa to Southeast Asia. In temperate climates (the middle latitudes of the globe, which span between the tropics and the poles) basil is treated as an annual plant (full growth cycle spans one year), however, basil can be grown as a short–lived perennial (full growth cycle spans more than two years) or biennial (full growth cycle spans two years) in warmer horticultural (gardening) zones with tropical or Mediterranean climates (characterized by dry summers and mild, wet winters). Basil can be propagated reliably from cuttings with the stems of short cuttings suspended in water for two weeks or until roots develop.

Basil originated in India, where it was cultivated for therapeutic uses, and was introduced to the Mediterranean on the spice routes during ancient times. The herb. Holy basil, or “tulsi”, is the most notable of the more than 50 different types of basil now grown in Asia, Africa, Central and South America, Canada and the United States.

The exact taxonomy of basil is uncertain due to the immense number of cultivars, its ready polymorphy, and frequent cross–pollination (resulting in new hybrids) with other members of the genus Ocimum and within the species. Ocimum basilicum has at least 60 varieties, which further complicates its taxonomy.

Etymology

The name “basil” comes from the Latin basilius, and the Greek βασιλικόν φυτόν (basilikón phutón), meaning “royal or kingly plant”, possibly because the plant was believed to have been used in production of royal perfumes. Basil is likewise sometimes referred to in French as “l’herbe royale” (“the royal herb”).

The Latin name has been confused with “basilisk”, as it was supposed to be an antidote to the basilisk’s venom. In European bestiaries and legends, a basilisk is a legendary reptile reputed to be a serpent king, who can cause death with a single glance. According to the Naturalis Historia of Pliny the Elder, the basilisk of Cyrene was a small snake, so venomous it left a wide trail of deadly venom in its wake.

Description

Depending on the variety, plants can reach heights of between 30 and 150 cm (1 and 5 ft.). Its leaves are richly green and ovate, but otherwise come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes depending on cultivar. Leaf sizes range from 3 to 11 cm (1 to 4+½ in) long, and between 1 and 6 cm (½ and 2+½ in) wide. Basil grows a thick, central taproot. Its flowers are small and white, and grow from a central inflorescence (cluster), or spike (raceme) that emerges from the central stem atop the plant. 

Unusual among Lamiaceae, the four stamens (pollen–producing reproductive organs) and the pistil (or Gynoecium produces ovules and develops into the fruit and seeds) are not pushed under the upper lip of the corolla (petals), but lie over the inferior lip. After entomophilous (insect) pollination, the corolla falls off and four round achenes (a simple dry fruit) develop inside the bilabiate calyx (collection of sepals).

Phytochemistry

The three primary categories of the chemical compounds found in basil essential oil are oxygenated monoterpenes, sesquiterpene hydrocarbons, and oxygenated sesquiterpenes. Oxygenated monoterpenes account for 60.7– 68.9 percent, and are responsible for some of its antibacterial properties, which make it a fantastic addition to my Basil Essential Oil Laundry Soap Recipe, and their subsequent health benefits. The various basils have such distinct scents because the volatile aromatic compounds (VOC) vary greatly with each cultivar. This variety in cultivars is precisely what makes essential oil of basil a diverse ingredient that can be used in almost limitless number of applications and recipes.

Basil Varieties

Most basils are cultivars of Sweet basil. Most basil varieties have green leaves, but a few are purple, such as, “Purple Delight”: Anise basil, Licorice basil, or Persian basil (O. basilicum “Liquorice”), Globe basil, dwarf basil, French basil (Ocimum basilicum “Minimum”) and Purple basil (Ocimum basilicum “Purpurescens”).

	Sweet Basil Sweet basil is one of the most commonly used in culinary dishes. Due to its spicy–aromatic flavor profile, it is used as a key ingredient in most Italian soups, sauces and pesto. The leaves range in color from green to purple and the plant can grow up to 12–18 in. tall. Sweet basil grows best in sunny, arid conditions in moist soil, and cannot survive in temperatures below 50°F (10°C).
	Dark Opal Basil Dark opal basil (Ocimum basilicum “Dark Opal”) is a cultivar of Sweet basil, developed by John Scarchuk and Joseph Lent at the University of Connecticut in the 1950s. With deep purple, sometimes mottled leaves, it is grown as much for its decorative appeal as for its culinary value. Dark opal basil was a 1962 winner of the All–American Selection award.
	Red Rubin Basil Red rubin basil (Ocimum basilicum “Rubin”) is an improved variety of Dark opal basil. Like many culinary basils, it is a cultivar of Sweet basil. This basil variety has unusual reddish–purple leaves, and a stronger flavor than Sweet basil, making it most appealing for salads and garnishes. It is a fast–growing annual herb that reaches a height of approximately 70 cm (2.3 ft.).
	Spicy Globe Basil Spicy globe basil (Ocimum basilicum × O. americanum) is a cultivar of Sweet basil. Unlike some better known basils, it grows in the form of a tidy, compact bush, more suitable for gardens, raised beds and small pots than most varieties. The small, densely growing leaves are used in the same way as the leaves of other Sweet basil varieties.
	Lemon or Lime Basil Lemon basil, hoary basil, Thai lemon basil, or Lao basil (Ocimum basilicum × O. americanum), is a hybrid between Sweet basil and American basil. This herb is grown primarily in Northeastern Africa and Southern Asia for culinary uses and its fragrant lemon scent. Lemon or Lime basil, both have citrus flavored leaves. They are often used to garnish iced tea and added to salads. The dried leaves can be used to brew tea or as a room freshener. This type of basil loves sun and grows well in open gardens, raised beds and in containers.
	Mrs. Burns’ Lemon Basil Mrs. Burns’ Lemon basil is an heirloom cultivar of Sweet basil from New Mexico in the United States. Compared to Lemon basil, which is a different species of basil, in Mrs. Burns’ Lemon basil the lemon flavor is more intense, the leaves are larger, and the plant itself is more robust.
	Lettuce Leaf Basil Lettuce leaf basil (Ocimum basilicum “Crispum”) is a large–leaf variety of Sweet basil. The large, crinkled leaves, which resemble lettuce grow on the short, wide plant, are sweet, but not as strong as Sweet basil. This makes them particularly suitable for tossing into salads or wrapping fish and chicken, or a rice stuffing for grilling. Lettuce leaf basil can be used to infuse oils and the oils as a dip for bread.
	Cinnamon Basil or Mexican Basil Cinnamon basil (Ocimum basilicum “Cinnamon”), also known as the Mexican basil, has a similar flavor profile to Sweet basil, with added notes of cinnamon. The leaves of Cinnamon basil are smaller compared to those of Sweet basil. Cinnamon basil has a purple stem with fragrant green leaves. The plant can grow to 12–18 inches tall.
	Napoletano Basil Napoletano basil is so named because it originated in Naples, Italy. Its light–green leaves are large and crinkled. Its flavor is milder than Sweet basil, but can be spicier. The leaves are large enough to wrap fish, veggies and cheese. This plant grows to about 2 feet high.
	Genovese Basil Genovese basil is a variety of Sweet basil. It can be identified from its flat and pointy leaves. Its sweet and spicy flavor is ideal for making pesto, salads, sauces and dips. It can be grown in a container, raised bed or out in the open so long as it is grown in appropriate climate conditions.
	Thai Basil Thai basil (Ocimum basilicum thyrsifolium) called káu–chàn–thah in Taiwan, is a type of basil from the Mint family native to Southeast Asia that has been cultivated to provide distinctive traits. It is widely used throughout Southeast Asia in Thai and Vietnamese cuisines. Its flavor has been described as anise– and licorice–like and slightly spicy, is more stable under high or extended cooking temperatures than that of Sweet basil. It is used in dishes like Pho, Vietnamese noodles, soups and broths. Thai basil is a perennial that can grow up to 18 inches tall has 1–2 in. small, narrow, green leaves, purple stems, and pink–purple flowers.
	Christmas Basil Christmas basil is a hybrid cross between Genovese and Thai basil. Christmas basil has a fruity flavor profile, which is great for adding to drinks and salads. Its red–purple flowers make it a favorite as an ornamental container plant.
	Ararat Basil Ararat basil has a dark purple stem that extends into the leaves. The purple tinge of the stem in the leaf fades into an outer green leaf. This basil can grow up to 18 inches tall. The taste of Ararat basil has the same anise aroma of Thai basil but with an added hint of licorice. Ararat basil is native to Israel and is grown year–round, with peak production taking place during summer.
	Cardinal Basil Cardinal basil is easily distinguishable from other basils due to its very large red flowers that extend from the top. It is one of the top choices for ornamental gardens. Although it is not just a favorite for its looks, it can also be used in culinary applications just like other basil variety.
	Greek “Little Leaf” Basil Greek basil is native to Southeast Asia, is also referred to as little leaf, because it has diminutive leaves and the plant itself only grows to a height of under 8 inches. It is grown for culinary and also for ornamental reasons. The flavor profile of its tiny leaves is close to that of Sweet basil.
	Summerlong Basil Summerlong basil falls in the Dwarf plant category. Due to its diminutive size, Summerlong basil matures quite fast. It begins to produce leaves generally within 30–60 days of sowing. It is fully matured within 60–90 days. This small and bushy basil is a great option for any container garden.
	African Blue Basil African blue basil (Ocimum basilicum × O. kilimandscharicum) is a hybrid basil variety, a cross between camphor basil and dark opal basil. It is one of a few types of basil that are perennial. African blue basil plants are sterile, unable to produce seeds of their own, and can only be propagated by cuttings.

Similar Species

Some similar species in the same genus may be commonly called “basil”, although they are not varieties of Ocimum basilicum.

• Camphor basil or African basil (O. kilimandscharicum) is a basil species native to Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Sudan, and Ethiopia.
• Clove basil (Ocimum gratissimum) in Hawaii “wild basil”, is a species of Ocimum. It is native to Africa, Madagascar, southern Asia, and the Bismarck Archipelago, and naturalized in Polynesia, Hawaii, Mexico, Panama, West Indies, Brazil, and Bolivia.
• Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum, formerly known as O. sanctum) commonly known as tulsi or tulasi, is an aromatic perennial plant in the family Lamiaceae. It is native to the Indian subcontinent and widespread as a cultivated plant throughout the Southeast Asian tropics.

Culinary Uses

Basil is most commonly used fresh in recipes. It is generally added last, as high heat cooking quickly destroys the flavor. The fresh herb can be kept for a very short time wrapped in cloth or paper towels in the refrigerator, or for a longer in the freezer, but only after a quick blanching in boiling water.

The most commonly used Mediterranean basil cultivars are “Genovese”, “Purple Ruffles”, “Mammoth”, “Cinnamon”, “Lemon”, “Globe”, and “African Blue”. Basil is one of the main ingredients in pesto, an Italian sauce with olive oil and basil as its primary ingredients. It is also an essential ingredient in the popular Italian–American marinara sauce. Fresh or dried basils are also used in Chinese cuisine in soups and other foods. In Taiwan, people add fresh basil leaves to thick soups. They also eat fried chicken with deep–fried basil leaves.

Basil (most commonly Thai basil) is steeped in cream or milk to create an interesting ice cream flavor or in chocolates (such as truffles). The flower buds of basil, and not just the leaves are used in culinary applications, they are edible and have a more subtle flavor.

Most Asian basils have a clove–like flavor that is generally stronger than the Mediterranean basils. Lemon basil has a strong citrus scent and flavor due to the presence of citral (an acyclic monoterpene aldehyde). It is widely used in Indonesia, where it is called kemangi and served raw with cabbage, green beans, and cucumber as an accompaniment to fried fish or duck. Its flowers are a zesty salad ingredient.

Fresh Basil vs Basil Essential Oil

Fresh basil leaves are a great way to flavor recipes and absorb some of basil’s nutritional benefits. Basil essential oil, like all essential oils, is much more concentrated and potent than the fresh herb form. Fresh basil leaves, stems, and flowers are steam distilled to procure an extract that has high levels of antioxidants and other beneficial phytochemicals.

Basil leaves are sweet when picked early and become spicy as they ripen. They produce an aromatic essential oil. The process of steam distillation involves boiling the plant material until the oil is separated and captured in an inhaler. Basil essential oil, which can also sometimes be referred to as Sweet basil essential oil, has a sweet, herbaceous, warm and spicy aroma that makes it a good flavor enhancer to pasta, meats and other entree dishes. Especially in the Mediterranean region, Sweet basil essential oil is an active ingredient in many Italian pasta dishes.

However, basil essential oil’s value extend beyond the culinary aspect. Basil essential oil, is often said to be the “oil of renewal” that can help reduce stress, anxiety, and nervousness, while soothing sore muscles and helping alleviate mental exhaustion. It has antimicrobial, antioxidant, stimulant, anti–inflammatory, diuretic and antiseptic properties that provide numerous health benefits to address a variety of ailments.

Sweet Basil vs Holy Basil

Most essential oils available that are labeled “basil essential oil” are extracted from Sweet basil varieties. Holy basil (tulsi) is a different type of basil. Tulsi is the species Ocimum tenuiflorum, does not have the same chemical composition as Sweet basil varieties and so will produce different results. Tulsi is also known to have antibacterial, anti–inflammatory and stimulant properties. Read more on the health and beauty properties of this herb.

The Origins and History of Basil

There are many rituals and beliefs associated with basil. The ancient Egyptians and ancient Greeks believed basil would open the gates of heaven for a person passing on. Jewish folklore suggests it adds strength while fasting. However, English botanist, herbalist, physician and astrologer Nicholas Culpeper saw basil as a plant of dread and suspicion.

In Portugal, dwarf bush basil is traditionally presented in a pot, together with a poem and a paper carnation, to a sweetheart, on the religious holidays of John the Baptist, Saint John’s Eve, which starts at sunset on 23 June, on the eve of the Feast Day of Saint John the Baptist, and Saint Anthony of Padua. In Italian Renaissance writer and poet Giovanni Boccaccio’s 14th century Decameron (a collection of short stories), the fifth story of the narrative’s fourth day involves a pot of basil as a central plot device. This famous story inspired English poet John Keats to write his 1814 poem “Isabella, or the Pot of Basil“, which was in turn the inspiration for two paintings of the Pre–Raphaelite Brotherhood (a group of English painters, poets and art critics): one of the founders of the brotherhood, English painter and illustrator (1st Baronet) Sir John Everett Millais’s Isabella 1846–1849 and in 1868 the Isabella and the Pot of Basil by English painter and another founder of the brotherhood William Holman Hunt.

Basil has religious significance in the Greek Orthodox Church, where it is used to sprinkle holy water. The Bulgarian Orthodox Church (босилек, bosilek), Serbian Orthodox Church (босиљак, bosiljak), Macedonian Orthodox Church (босилек, bosilek) and Romanian Orthodox Church use basil to prepare holy water and pots of basil are often placed below church altars. Some Greek Orthodox Christians even avoid eating it due to its association with the legend of the Elevation of the Holy Cross, one of the Great Feasts of the Orthodox Church, celebrated on September 14. It is one of the two feast days which is held as a strict fast. 

In folk medicine practices, such as those of Ayurveda or traditional Chinese medicine, basil is thought to have therapeutic properties. Basil essential oil was used in traditional medicine for the treatment of headaches, coughs, diarrhea, constipation, warts and worms, and as an aid in kidney function. Its antibacterial and anti–fungal effects have since been scientifically proven. Basil was also used in Ayurvedic medicine in beauty applications to treat skin conditions.

How to Use Basil Essential Oil

Basil oil can be used in combination with a carrier oil such as jojoba, sweet almond, or avocado. It can be applied directly to the skin or added to a hot bath.

Ingestion

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recognizes pure basil essential oil as safe for consumption; however, this is only when using 100% high–quality, therapeutic–grade oil. Always purchase essential oils from reputable sellers. Look for an essential oil made from Ocimum basilicum. If you find that you are dissatisfied with the manufactured products available on the market, then why not make your own? You can, it’s easy peasy with this recipe for making your own basil essential oil. You can add it to a few drops of water, to a smoothie or mixed with honey as a dietary supplement.

Aromatherapy

In aromatherapy, one can inhale basil essential oil by adding a few drops of it on to a cloth or tissue. It can also be added to an aromatherapy diffuser or vaporizer. It is also safe to inhale the essential oil directly from the bottle. Rubbing several drops into your palms, placing your hands over your face, and inhaling, is also an effective way to get the aromatherapy benefits of basil essential oil.

Topical Application

Before applying basil essential oil to your skin, the oil should be diluted with a carrier oil like coconut, avocado, jojoba, or sweet almond. Basil essential oil, like all essential oils, is very potent, so start with small incremental amounts at a time. Sometimes basil essential oil can cause skin reactions in those with sensitive skin, so it is best to avoid using on your neck, face, or chest before performing a patch test.

The Health Benefits of Basil Essential Oil

In recent years, basil essential oil has been evaluated for possible therapeutic benefits. Due to advances in clinical studies, researchers suggest that this essential oil may help reduce symptoms of common maladies. These include alleviating nausea, inflammation, motion sickness, indigestion, constipation, respiratory problems, and fighting bacterial infections.

The leaves and seeds of the basil plant are the important medicinal parts of this herb, which is regularly used in cuisines and recipes all over the world. Basil essential oil is popular in Europe, Central Asia, India, and Southeast Asia. This essential oil is extensively used for culinary purposes in the Mediterranean region and still forms the active ingredient in many Italian recipes such as pesto. It is also used when making pasta and salads.

Basil essential oil is naturally anti–inflammatory, antiviral, antibiotic, and diuretic. It has been used in traditional Ayurveda for centuries. According to a review published in the Ancient Science of Life journal in 2014, basil essential oil has been used effectively for treating coughs, headaches, warts, constipation, diarrhea, kidney malfunctions and ringworm. In the 16th century, basil leaves were used to treat chest infections and migraines. Basil oil is found in dental and oral products, beverages, and foods due to its antibacterial properties. While fresh basil is beneficial and flavorful, basil essential oil is considerably more potent and concentrated. The beneficial compounds from basil essential oil are steam–distilled from fresh basil flowers, stems, and leaves. The end–product is an extract that contains high amounts of antioxidants and phytochemicals. If you’re interested in greater detail, read this PDF on the Basil Essential Oil Health and Beauty Benefits. Basil essential oil has many health benefits discussed below.

Therapeutic Uses of Basil Essential Oil

Basil oil is an additive in perfumes, cosmetics, soaps, toothpastes and mouthwash. It’s also used in medical preparations, insect repellents and various household products.

1. To Treat Acne: Make a face pack by mixing basil essential oil, sandalwood powder, rose water, and lemon juice until you have a thick consistency that can be easily applied to the skin. Apply this face pack on the skin and let it dry for 15–20 minutes. Rinse off with water.
2. Acne Treatment: Mix 1–2 drops of basil essential oil with equal amount of coconut or jojoba oil, soak a cotton ball with mixture and apply onto the affected areas once or twice daily.
3. Prevent Blackheads and Whiteheads: Add basil essential oil with Fuller’s Earth (powdered clay), honey, and lemon juice to form a mixture. Apply this mixture as a facemask and let it dry for 10 minutes. Rinse off with water.
4. Treat Ringworm Infection: Mix some lemon juice with basil essential oil and gently apply it to the affected area.
5. For Dry Scalp: Mix equal amounts of basil essential oil and coconut oil, and massage on the scalp. Regular massage improves blood circulation and promotes better nourishment and moisturizing of scalp.
6. For Soft Lustrous Hair: Mix some basil essential oil with amla powder to form a paste. Apply it on the hair and let dry for 15–20 minutes. Rinse off with water and shampoo as usual. For best results use regularly.
7. For Hair Loss: Mix equal amounts of basil essential oil and coconut oil, and massage on the scalp.
8. Clarifying Shampoo: Add 1–2 drops of basil essential oil to your shampoo. This is said to balance pH and remove excess oil and residue from your scalp and avoid buildup on your hair.
9. Hair Detox Mask: Mix basil essential oil with baking soda and apple cider vinegar, apply topically on hair and scalp to remove bacteria, excess oil and residue naturally. Wash off after a few minutes.
10. Heal Skin Burns: Boil some coconut oil and basil essential oil together for a few minutes and let it come to room temperature. Once the mixture has cooled, apply it to the skin burn.
11. Insect Bites or Minor Skin Irritations: Dilute several drops of basil essential oil with a carrier oil (such as almond. jojoba or olive oil) in a 1:1 ratio and massage onto the skin or on swollen bites if necessary.
12. Natural Insect Repellent: Diffuse a combination of basil, citronella and thyme essential oils in an outdoor space or mix a few drops of each and dilute with a carrier oil and apply it all over your body before any outdoor activity.
13. To Ease Pruritus (Itching): To use basil essential oil on your skin, mix it with your choice of carrier oil and apply it to the affected areas.
14. Aromatherapy: Increase mental acuity and focus through inhalation. Inhalation of basil essential oil has been reported as a calming way to ease migraines and headaches, while having an uplifting effect on mood. Add 2–4 drops of basil essential oil to a diffuser or bowl of hot water and let the aroma fill the room.
15. Bath: Sprinkle 2–3 drops of basil essential oil in your bath for a soothing and calming effect.
16. Massage: For a stress–relieving massage, add 1–3 drops of basil essential oil to a carrier oil like jojoba or coconut. Gently massage over the affected areas to help relieve aching muscles. For a full body massage, apply the mixture at the sacrum up the spine to the neck, and evenly massage into the skin. Create a blended massage oil by adding a drop of bergamot or ginger essential oil to the mixture.
17. To Aid Digestion: Add 1–2 drops to your water or tea. Alternatively, you can inhale it through the palms of your hands or massage diluted basil essential oil onto the abdominal and lower back areas.
18. Guard Against Cold and Flu: Diffuse 5 drops of basil in your home to protect against viral infections.
19. Relieve Chest Congestion (Expectorant): Boil a small pot of water and add 2–3 drops of basil essential oil and inhale deeply with a towel over your head.
20. For Environmental Allergies: Dilute 1–2 drops of basil essential oil with coconut oil to create an oil mix rub for your neck and chest. You can also ingest this essential oil for its potent effects, but never in its pure form. Try adding a drop or two to a homemade marinara sauce or pesto.
21. Support Healthy Hormone Function: Add 4–5 drops of each to your diffuser and breathe deeply when your brain feels like mush and your body feels entirely run down.
22. Liver Detox: Add 1–2 drops to meals or mix with 1 teaspoon of honey and add to a delicious hot cup of tea.
23. Sore Muscles or Joints: Soak in a hot bath with 1 cup of Epsom salts and 1–2 drops each basil and lavender essential oils.
24. Muscles Relaxant: Massage 2 drops of basil essential oil diluted with coconut oil into your swollen or painful joints or muscles.
25. Headache or Migraine Relief: Mix 1–2 drops of basil essential oil with a carrier oil and massage it into your temples, neck, or chest. You can also diffuse it or inhale it directly from the bottle.
26. For Ear Infections: Create a massage blend of 1–2 drops each basil and frankincense essential oils diluted with 1 teaspoon coconut oil and apply it behind and around the ears and on the bottoms of your feet. This method will help reduce the pain and swelling, and the healing time.
27. For Oral Hygiene: Add 1–2 drops of pure basil essential oil to your toothpaste, or add to a cup of water to create a homemade mouthwash mixture.
28. Air Freshener: Mix 1–2 drops of basil essential oil with water in a spray bottle and use it to spray the air or over any household surface.
29. Household Cleaner: Make a chemical–free, household cleaning spray. Combine 2 cups water, 1 cup white vinegar, 20 drops of lemon essential oil, and 15 drops of basil essential oil and add to a spray bottle. Mist over household surfaces before wiping clean with a wet cloth.
30. Produce Wash: Mix 1–2 drops of basil essential oil with water in a spray bottle, fill the rest with water, and spray it over the produce. You can also use this solution to clean kitchen surfaces as a more natural alternative to traditional cleaning products.

Precautions

Basil essential oil is considered generally safe for inhalation and topical use. For topical application, always dilute basil essential oil before applying to the skin. To avoid potential adverse reactions, always read and follow the label’s directions. Always perform a patch test prior to use. Discontinue use of basil essential oil if you experience an allergic reaction, burning, redness, or hives. Always dilute basil essential oil with a carrier oil in a 1:1 ratio before using it topically. Keep basil essential oil away from eyes and the inside of your nose or ears.

Ingesting essential oils can be harmful and toxic. Before you ingest basil essential oil as a medicinal treatment or supplement, be sure to first consult with your physician or a medical professional. Always purchase high–quality, therapeutic–grade, and 100% pure USDA certified organic, non–GMO basil essential oil from a reliable and reputable seller and do not ingest in large doses.

Consult a healthcare professional before using basil essential oil on children, or if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Basil essential oil is counter indicated for those with epilepsy.

Essential Oils to Avoid in Pregnancy

Women who are pregnant should use essential oils with caution. Some oils are best steering clear of altogether. These are: Acorus Calamus, Ajwain, Allspice, Amyris, Anise (Aniseed), Angelica, Apricot Kernel, Asafoetida, Babchi, Cinnamon, Clove, Cumin, Fennel, Hyssop, Oregano, Peru Balsam, Thyme, Sage, Star Anise, Sweet Birch, and Wintergreen.

Never use essential oils in a humidifier, CPAP machine, or any other breathing device.

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