Basil oil, not only to flavour your favourite Italian food dishes
Basil oil is an essential oil extracted from the leaves of the basil plant, Ocimum basilicum. It has a strong, herbaceous aroma with notes of mint, licorice, and cloves. Basil oil is used in aromatherapy, cooking, and skin care.
Types of Basil oil
- Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) is the most common type of basil oil. It has a strong, herbaceous aroma with notes of mint, licorice, and cloves. Sweet basil oil is used in aromatherapy, cooking, and skin care.
- Holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) is also known as tulsi or tulasi. It has a slightly sweet, minty aroma with notes of camphor and cloves. Holy basil oil is used in aromatherapy, meditation, and yoga.
- Linalool basil (Ocimum basilicum var. linalol) is a type of sweet basil that has a higher concentration of linalool, a compound that gives it a sweet, floral aroma. Linalool basil oil is used in aromatherapy, cooking, and skin care.
- Thai basil (Ocimum basilicum var. thyrsiflora) is a type of basil that has a strong, licorice-like aroma. Thai basil oil is used in Thai cuisine, and it is also used in aromatherapy and skin care.
- Genovese basil (Ocimum basilicum var. genovese) is a type of sweet basil that is known for its mild, slightly peppery flavor. Genovese basil oil is used in pesto and other Italian dishes.
Benefits of Basil essential oil:
- Aromatherapy: The aroma of basil oil is said to be uplifting and stimulating, which can help to reduce stress and anxiety. It is also said to improve mood and concentration, and to boost energy levels. Basil oil can be used in a diffuser or added to a carrier oil and massaged into the skin.
- Cooking: Basil oil has a strong, herbaceous flavor that can be used to add depth and complexity to a variety of dishes. It is a popular ingredient in Italian cuisine, and it is often used in pesto, pasta sauces, and salads. Basil oil can also be used in marinades, dressings, and dips.
- Skin care: Basil oil has a number of benefits for the skin. It can help to reduce acne and blemishes, soothe sunburns, reduce inflammation, improve elasticity, promote wound healing, and protect against skin cancer. Basil oil can be applied to the skin directly, but it is best to dilute it with a carrier oil first.
Advantages of Basil essential oil:
- It is a natural and safe product. Basil oil is a natural product that is extracted from the leaves of the basil plant. It is generally considered safe to use, but it is always best to dilute it with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin.
- It has a variety of benefits. Basil oil has been shown to have a variety of benefits, including reducing stress and anxiety, improving mood and concentration, boosting energy levels, relieving headaches and migraines, soothing muscle pain and cramps, fighting colds and flu, improving digestion, and boosting the immune system.
- It is versatile. Basil oil can be used in a variety of ways, including aromatherapy, cooking, and skin care. It is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, including pesto, pasta sauces, salads, marinades, dressings, and dips. It can also be applied to the skin directly, but it is best to dilute it with a carrier oil first.
- It is affordable. Basil oil is a relatively affordable essential oil. It can be found at most health food stores and online retailers.
Uses of Basil oil
It can help to reduce acne and blemishes, soothe sunburns, reduce inflammation, improve elasticity, promote wound healing, and protect against skin cancer.
Considerations
Basil essential oil is a versatile and popular essential oil with a variety of uses. However, there are some important considerations to keep in mind when using basil essential oil.
Here are some of the most important considerations:
- Dosage: Basil essential oil is potent, so it is important to use it in moderation. A good rule of thumb is to start with a small amount and gradually increase the amount as needed.
- Dilution: Basil essential oil should always be diluted with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin. A good ratio is 1 drop of essential oil to 4 drops of carrier oil.
- Skin sensitivity: Basil essential oil can cause skin irritation in some people. If you have sensitive skin, it is best to do a patch test before using basil essential oil.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Basil essential oil should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
- Other medical conditions: If you have any other medical conditions, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional before using basil essential oil.
Here are some additional considerations:
- Direct sunlight: Basil essential oil can be phototoxic, which means that it can increase your skin’s sensitivity to sunlight. If you use basil essential oil, it is important to avoid direct sunlight for at least 12 hours afterwards.
- Children: Basil essential oil should not be used on children under the age of 6.
- Pets: Basil essential oil can be toxic to pets, so it is important to keep it out of reach of animals.
Overall, basil essential oil is a safe and effective essential oil when used properly. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks and considerations before using it.
Some Hugo Apothecary products contain the variety Ocimum basilicum – which lends its healing and rejuvenating properties to our skincare range.
It is important to note that pure basil oil is a concentrated essential oil, and it should be used with caution. It is always best to dilute basil oil with a carrier oil before applying it to the skin. It is also important to avoid using basil oil if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.