basil, or basil, is not only one of the oldest herbs used in cooking, but also an extraordinary source of health benefits 7 health benefits of basil: 1. powerful anti-inflammatory: the essential oils eugenol, citronellol, linalool, citral, limonene and terpinelol are some of the oils of basil. the enzyme inhibitory effect of eugenol helps fight arthritis or inflammation in the intestines. 2. protection of dna: orientin and viceninare are two flavonoids from basil beneficial to blood cells and which protect the structures of cells and chromosomes from radiation and oxygen damage. 3. cardiovascular health: high magnesium levels help muscles and blood vessels relax, improving blood flow. 4. anti-bacterial properties: the oils present in basil provide protection against bacteria. (staphylococcus, enterococcus and pseudomonas) that have developed resistance to antibiotic treatments (journal of microbiology methods, september 2003). inhibit shigella, an infectious bacterium that causes diarrhea. 5. formerly used as an antidote for snake bites: and strengthened people during religious festivities. 6. it stimulates the appetite and helps to curb flatulence: basil tea is known to combat dysentery, nausea and stomach-related gas problems. 7. make the body alkaline: like vegetables, basil provides minerals with alkaline properties that balance typical acidic diets. the basil is so full of phytonutrients that it is considered a beneficial herb by multiple health systems, including chinese medicine.