The Benefits of Beautiful Basil

Basil is used a lot in Italy for making a mouth-watering sauce for pasta called pesto. The bright, sharp flavour is unique and beloved. Combined with extra-virgin olive oil, parmesan and pine nuts, this finicky herb (also renowned for being difficult to grow) is transformed into a food of the gods.

But did you know that Basil Oil can also be used to increase mental clarity and alertness? That's why we used it in our Lavender Basil Bar Soap. It can help increase focus and improve a melancholic mood. It can also help to ease nervous tension and anxiety.

It can be used to soothe an upset stomach, aid in digestion and calm motion sickness. It has been used since ancient times, most commonly in India, to treat diarrhea and constipation as well as some skin diseases.

When used topically, Basil can help to increase the lustre of skin, hair and nails and soothe blemishes. And as if that weren't enough, apply it to an insect bite and it will help to calm the itch and severity of the bite.

To learn more about how to use Basil Oil and other essential oils, check out this handy overview: http://www.sustainablebabysteps.com/how-to-use-essential-oils.html