herb of the month: BASIL!

8/26/2015

why we love it

Basil is originally native to Iran, India and other tropical regions of Asia. This bushy annual herb is especially grown for its medicinally useful leaves and seeds. Basil grows best in warm, tropical climates. There are at least five different kinds of basil: Mediterranean or Sweet Basil, Asian Basil, Thai Basil, Lemon Basil, and Holy Basil, which is one of my favorites. Grow basil from a cutting using Root Tone, from a cutting placed in water, or from seed. Because basil does so well in tropical climates, it spreads like wild fire here in Hawaii. This amazing herb is so versatile, we use it in everything from soup to soap....seriously.

metaphysical benefits

Basil cleanses energy, helps with love, fidelity, and faithfulness and encourages attraction. Traditionally used in house and marrigage blessings, we put Basil in Harmonious Home to encourage a loving environment free of negative energy. Basil is also a great protector. As a high vibrational herb, it helps to dispel dark energy and psychological attacks.

friends with health benefits

Basil contains phytochemicals that can lower cortisol, the hormone that is secreted when you’re tense. Cortisol is responsible for weight gain in adults prevalent around the midsection. Feeling hot and bothered? Add a few leaves to your ice tea, and sip your stress away. You can also make basil into a toner that’s great for treating skin with acne and has anti-aging benefits. We’ll put the recipe below. Basil has a high concentration of Vitamin A(antioxidant and healthy vision), Vitamin K(anti-coagulation and bone re-mineralization), potassium, copper, magnesium, and manganese. Superoxide Dismutase found in basil is one of the most potent forms of anti-aging enzymes available. Taken internally or applied externally, this enzyme reduces hair loss and encourages new growth, and is extremely protective of cells in the body that are assaulted by free radicals.

We love using holy basil for indigestion from anxiety related conditions. Holy Basil lowers the amount of acid in the stomach while simultaneously increasing the production of protective mucous. Ladies, holy basil is also great if you’re having challenges during that time of the month. In addition to lowering stress, cortisol, and balancing hormones, it’s also a great source of iron.

make it

Jenn's Watermelon Basil Smoothie

2 cups cubed watermelon
1 cup crushed ice
3-6 basil leaves(to taste)
2 tbs sweetened condensed coconut milk
1 whole lime, juiced

Blend ingredients on high until smooth and completely incorporated. Serve with a sprig of basil and a smile :) *you could probably serve four, they just might not get any after you try it.

Basil Toner

I cup water
1 handful fresh basil leaves

Boil the fresh basil leaves in 1 cup of water for 10minutes. Let the liquid cool completely. Dip a cotton ball into the toner and dab onto problem areas. *Use for acne or as a refreshing anti-aging toner stored in the fridge.