Top Basil Essential Oil Benefits & Over 30 Uses
Basil essential oil is a highly versatile and beneficial oil that has been used for centuries. Derived from the leaves of the basil plant, it is known for its powerful properties that support overall health and well-being.
In this blog, we will explore the top 10 benefits of basil essential oil and how to use it for maximum results.
Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not  information is not medical advice and not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent disease. If you have a medical condition, please consult your doctor before using essential oils.
Background of Basil Essential Oil
Basil essential oil, also known as Ocimum basilicum, is derived from the basil plant, and has a wonderful herbal aroma.
There are different types of basil, including holy basil and sweet basil. This article will focus on Sweet Basil Oil.
The botanical name for basil essential oil is ocimum basilicum, and it belongs to the mint family.
Known for its distinct herbal aroma, numerous health benefits and medicinal properties, basil essential oil has been used in traditional ayurvedic medicine since ancient times.
Origin and Composition of Basil Essential Oil
Ocimum basilicum, or sweet basil, is often referred to as the royal plant or the queen of herbs due to its rich history and extensive use in various cultures.
The essential oil of basil is derived from the leaves of the basil plant through a process called steam distillation. This method extracts the oil, along with the plant’s aromatic compounds, resulting in a potent and concentrated form of basil oil.
Basil essential oil is composed of various chemical constituents, including linalool, eugenol, and β-caryophyllene, which contribute to its unique properties.
Linalool is known to be calming and according to this study at the National Library of Medicine, can help turn around feelings of sadness.
How Basil Essential Oil is Made
The process of extracting basil essential oil is known as steam distillation. It involves the use of steam to extract the oil from the leaves of the basil plant.
First, the leaves of the basil plant are harvested and cleaned to remove any impurities. These leaves are then placed in a distillation apparatus, where steam is passed through them. The steam vaporizes the essential oil within the leaves, carrying it through a system of tubes.
As the steam cools down, it condenses, separating the essential oil from the water vapor. The essential oil of basil, being lighter than water, rises to the top of the condensation chamber, where it is collected and gathered.
This entire method ensures that the essential oil of basil is extracted in its purest form, free from any additives or contaminants. It preserves the natural properties of the basil plant, resulting in a potent and highly effective essential oil.
Emotional and Spiritual Benefits of Basil Essential Oil
Basil is known as the Oil of Renewal.
Basil can help you heal your weary, tired soul and find strength in hope and optimism.
Basil can help you overcome and conquer:
- Anxiousness
- Burnout
- Despair
- Exhaustion
- Fatigue
- Nervousness
- Stress
Basil can help you become:
- Balanced
- Energized
- Optimistic
- Rested
- Restored
- Strengthened
- Uplifted
Top 10 Basil Essential Oil Benefits
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Some of the main benefits of sweet basil essential oil include:
- Relieves stress and anxious feelings
- Boosts mental clarity and focus
- Soothes headaches
- Helps with respiratory issues like coughs and congestion
- Acts as a natural insect repellent
- Supports digestive health
- Eases muscle tension and pain
Basil essential oil, derived from the aromatic herb known for its culinary and medicinal purposes, offers a multitude of health benefits.
does basil oil have carminative properties and what does that mean
Basil oil has carminative properties – which means it can help alleviate gas and bloating in the digestive system.
Its anti-inflammatory properties make it an effective remedy for muscle relaxation, while its antimicrobial nature helps in treating acne and preventing premature graying.
Additionally, the oil’s ability to brighten the skin and eliminate dandruff makes it a popular choice for natural skincare and haircare routines.
The essential oil of basil is also known for its role in providing relief from common cold symptoms and promoting mental well-being due to its stress-relieving properties.
With its versatile and potent uses, basil essential oil has become a staple in ayurvedic medicine practices.
Benefit 1: Muscle Relaxation
Relief from muscle tension and soreness is one of the key benefits of basil essential oil. Its natural properties make it an effective remedy for muscle relaxation and pain relief.
The oil exerts a calming effect on muscles, promoting physical relaxation and comfort.
Its ability to alleviate muscle discomfort contributes to an overall sense of well-being. Incorporating basil oil into your wellness routine can significantly aid in muscle relaxation and provide a soothing experience.
Benefit 2: Skin Brightening
Promoting a healthy and radiant skin tone, basil essential oil contributes to skin brightening and rejuvenation.
Its natural remedy for skin pigmentation offers overall skin health benefits, supporting the reduction of dull skin and promoting a brighter complexion.
This essential oil is known for its properties that assist in addressing various skin concerns.
Benefit 3: Menstrual Cycle
Basil essential oil may help with menstrual relief by reducing pain and inflammation, promoting relaxation, and relieving tension. It can be applied topically to your stomach, or taken via a veggie capsule.
Benefit 4: Natural Relief for Congestion
Natural cold relief is among the many benefits of basil essential oil. The oil’s aroma aids in easier breathing and provides support to the respiratory system, offering a natural way to ease cold symptoms.
Through steam inhalation, basil essential oil can provide relief from congestion and discomfort associated with colds.
Additionally, when combined with tea tree oil, which is known for its antimicrobial activity, it can further support immune health.
Benefit 5: Stress Relief
The aroma of basil oil encourages mental clarity and tension relief, offering a natural remedy for stress support.
When dispersed into the air, it induces a soothing influence, contributing to relaxation and mental well-being.
Benefit 6: Acne and skin care
Organic acne treatment is one of the many benefits of basil essential oil. The oil’s antimicrobial properties make it effective in addressing acne breakouts, controlling the symptoms of acne, and supporting overall skin health.
When used in skincare products, basil oil aids in combating skin infections, minor irritations, and calming skin inflammations.
Benefit 7: Prevention of Premature Graying
Promoting healthy aging of hair, basil essential oil, when integrated into hair care products, supports hair health, potentially preventing premature graying.
Its topical application in hair care routines nurtures the health of hair follicles and may contribute to maintaining natural hair color.
Benefit 8: Dry Skin
Dry skin can benefit from the hydrating properties of basil essential oil, offering a natural remedy that provides moisture and nourishment.
When used in skincare products, basil oil supports skin health by relieving dry, flaky skin, thanks to its ability to maintain skin moisture and smoothness when diluted with a carrier oil.
Benefit 9: Dandruff
Supporting the scalp’s health, basil essential oil aids in eliminating dandruff by soothing and nourishing the scalp.
When incorporated into hair care routines, it effectively reduces the occurrence of dandruff and combats dry, flaky skin, ensuring a healthy, dandruff-free scalp.
Benefit 10: Flavoring in Food Recipes
Basil oil can be added to your favorite dishes in place of the fresh herb!
Use it sparingly – a little goes a long way. I recommend dipping a toothpick into the oil and swirling the toothpick into your recipe. Do it again as needed after a quick taste test.
Basil Essential Oil Diffuser Blends
​Get the aromatherapy benefits of basil oil by using it in a diffuser. To diffuse basil, add the drops of basil oil along with complementary oils into your diffuser and add water to the fill line.
Here are a few basil oil blends for your diffuser.
Basil Rollerball Recipes
Topical use of basil essential oil is a great way to get targeted relief to specific points on your body. Roller balls are a convenient way to get the benefits of essential oils.
I recommend doing a patch test on a small patch of skin to ensure you don’t have any adverse reactions or side effects before using it over a large area.
Here are a few rollerball recipes that feature Basil essential oil.
To make a roller ball:
- Add the drops of essential oil to a clean, empty roller bottle.
- Top up the roller bottle with a carrier oil like jojoba oil or fractionated coconut oil.
- Pop on the top and gently shake to mix up all the ingredients.
- To use: Roll on location or pulse points as needed.
Adrenal Rollerball
Ingredients:
- 10 drops Lavender
- 5 drops Basil
- 10 drops Rosemary
- 5 drops Grapefruit
Instructions:
- Place essential oils in 10 mL roller bottle.
- Fill remainder of bottle with carrier oil.
- Secure the lid to your roller bottle and shake until ingredients combine.
- Apply over the Adrenal area (below the chest) daily.
Ear Support Rollerball
Ingredients:
- 10 drops Basil
- 10 drops Lavender
- 10 drops Tea Tree
Instructions:
- Place essential oils in 10 mL roller bottle.
- Fill remainder of bottle with carrier oil.
- Secure the lid to your roller bottle and shake until ingredients combine.
- Apply behind and around ears.
Mood Shifter Rollerball
Ingredients:
- 5 drops Patchouli
- 5 drops Elevation
- 5 drops Cedarwood
- 5 drops Balance
- 5 drops Basil
- 5 drops Vetiver
Instructions:
- Place essential oils in 10 mL roller bottle.
- Fill remainder of bottle with carrier oil.
- Secure the lid to your roller bottle and shake until ingredients combine.
- Apply to pulse points
Tuned In Rollerball
Ingredients:
- 10 drops Lemon
- 5 drops Basil
- 6 drops Rosemary
- 3 drops Cypress
- 5 drops Frankincense
Instructions:
- Place essential oils in 10 mL roller bottle.
- Fill remainder of bottle with carrier oil.
- Secure the lid to your roller bottle and shake until ingredients combine.
- Apply to the bottoms of the feet, to the spine and/or to pulse points.
Can Basil Essential Oil be Used for Cooking?
Basil essential oil is GRAS (Generally Recognized As Safe) by the FDA which means it is safe for internal use.
When cooking with essential oil, it’s super important to be sure you are using a true essential oil and not a fragrance oil, which can be quite toxic.
Check your bottle to made sure it doesn’t say that it’s for external use only.
It should also have a nutritional label on the back if it’s safe for consumption.
Here are a few simple recipes that use Basil essential oil.
Twisted Tea Recipe with Basil Essential Oil
Spinach Pesto Dip Recipe with Basil Essential Oil
Basil Lemon Dressing Recipe with Basil Essential Oil
30 Ways to Use Basil Essential Oil Checklist
Here is a list of 30 ways you can use Basil Essential Oil. Try a new way each day for a month!
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Conclusion
In conclusion, basil essential oil offers a wide range of benefits for your overall well-being. From promoting relaxation of muscles to brightening the skin, refreshing the scalp, and providing relief from cold symptoms, this versatile oil has numerous uses. Remember to always dilute it properly and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns.
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Dawn Goehring
Dawn Goehring is the founder of Desert Naturals where she writes educational articles on essential oils, DIY’s on natural beauty products, homemade cleaners, and provides related essential oil accessories like planners, trackers, tshirts, and custom designed essential oil storage. She has been featured in articles on Porch.com, Redfin.com, MommyOnPurpose and more.
Dawn has earned an aromatherapist degree and has earned a doTERRA essential oil specialist certification which is a fancy way of saying she has learned a lot about the chemistry of essential oils and how they work in the body.