BASIL
Botanical name: Ocimum basilicum c.t. Linalool (synonymous with Ocimum americanum ssp. americanum)

Also Known As (AKA):  Sweet-Linalool, Reunion Basil, Comoran Basil

Therapeutic Benefit - Mind:  Basil is clarifying and increases concentration and confidence.

Therapeutic Benefit - Body:  Basil is analgesic, anti-microbial, antispasmodic, and antiviral. It is a circulatory system stimulant and muscle relaxant. Basil is good for headaches, migraines, and muscle aches. It is beneficial for bronchitis, fever, gums, and allergies. Basil may also aid Parkinson’s disease.

Therapeutic Benefit - Spirit:  Basil opens the third eye chakra. It is also used to stimulate the conscious during meditation.

Application Method:  Dilute 10 drops in 1 oz carrier oil, massage oil, or lotion and apply to skin or bath. Use 4 drops in 2 cups of hot water for a steam.

Action Word:  Clarifying

Color Energy:  Red – Stimulating

Fragrance:  Licorice-like, spicy, herbaceous, slightly camphoraceous, sweet, medicinal

Note:  Top Note

Color of Oil:  Clear

Major Chemical Constituents:  linalool, methyl chavicol, methyl eugenol

Common Adulterants:  linalool (synthetic or bioidentical)

Blends well with:  Bergamot, Citronella, Clary Sage, Clove, Eucalyptus, Frankincense, Geranium, Hyssop, Juniper, Lavender, Lemon, Lime, Mandarin, Marjoram, Neroli, Orange, Peppermint, Rosemary, Tangerine

Botany:  The broadly oval and pointed green leaves support lovely purple-white flowers on a sixteen-inch stem. Swarms of bees hover around this plant in summer.

History:  Basilicum is from the Greek word “Basilicos,” meaning “royal.” The Chinese favored it for many centuries as a useful medicine and it seems to have a reputation for curing epilepsy. North Africa, France, Cyprus, and the Seychelles give us the essential oil, though European Basil is said to be the best quality.

Warnings:  Avoid during pregnancy. Toxic at high concentrations.