Sweet Basil For Treating Hypertension

Sweet Basil

Basil is a delicious herb that goes well in a variety of foods. It also might help lower your blood pressure. In rodents, basil extract has been shown to lower blood pressure, although only briefly. The chemical eugenol, which is found in basil, may block certain substances that tighten blood vessels. This may lead to a drop in blood pressure. More studies are needed.

Reportedly, the Greek word “basileus” means “kingly” or “royal.” Makes sense, considering this herb has been found in tombs of Egyptian kings.

Adding fresh basil to your diet is easy and certainly can’t hurt. Keep a small pot of the herb in your kitchen garden and add the fresh leaves to pastas, soups, salads, and casseroles.

Basil is also used for stomach spasms, loss of appetite, intestinal gas, kidney conditions, fluid retention, head colds, warts, and worm infections. It is also used to treat snake and insect bites.
In theory, taking basil extracts might make blood pressure become too low in people with low blood pressure.

Holy Basil

Holy basil and basil are herbs that are members of the mint family. They are different variations of the same plant type, though they do have many differences. There are more than 40 basil variations, including lemon, cinnamon and Thai basil.

The plant is related to the familiar sweet basil that’s used in cooking. Its leaves are pale green and have a somewhat hairy appearance.

It has long been used as a traditional medicine in China and India. Some cultures regard the plant as sacred.

Interactions Warnings

Research on animals suggests that holy basil might change the effect of many medications, including these drugs:

• Diazepam (Valium)
• Pentobarbital (Nembutal)
• Scopolamine (sold as generic only)

Tell your doctor about any supplements you’re taking, even if they’re natural. That way, your doctor can check on any potential side effects or interactions with any medications.