Basil tea contains key compounds like eugenol and camphene, which possess strong anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties. These compounds help soothe irritated airways, reduce congestion, and fight off respiratory infections.
What is Basil tea? It is an herbal tea brewed from the leaves of the plant Ocimum basilicum plant, which is treasured for its medicinal properties. Basil tea is well-known in traditional medicine for its ability to alleviate cold symptoms, reduce coughs, and promote overall respiratory health.
Word of caution: While basil tea has a long history of use, research is still ongoing. Although many studies support its benefits for respiratory health, it’s important to remember that most findings are based on preliminary data or traditional use.
Basil Tea Benefits for Coughs
The tea is packed with active compounds, especially eugenol, camphene, and cineole. These substances enhance the body’s resilience leading to faster recovery. Let’s examine five research-based reasons basil tea is one of the best teas for cough and cold relief.
Cough And Sore Throat Relief
Eugenol is a potent bioactive compound commonly found in basil, as well as cloves and cinnamon. It has strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antimicrobial properties. Eugenol1 helps reduce inflammation in the throat and airways, easing the irritation that triggers coughing fits.
Tea For Respiratory Support
Camphene is another compound present in basil that plays a vital role in respiratory support. This terpene is known for its decongestant and antiseptic qualities. In addition, it has antimicrobial2 and anti-inflammatory properties, making it great for combating the root causes of respiratory problems.
Basil Tea For Congestion
Cineole, also known as eucalyptol, is a well-known compound in many herbal remedies, particularly for respiratory issues. It is commonly found in eucalyptus, but it’s also present in basil. Cineole works as an effective decongestant in basil tea to loosen mucus and reduce sinus inflammation.
Basil For Immune Support
Basil enhances the immune system by boosting the production of infection-fighting white blood cells and reducing inflammation through its essential oils and phytonutrients. Basil’s antioxidant content3 can boost immune function, helping your body fight off infections faster.
Basil Tea Calming Effects
Basil tea may also have mild sedative properties, promoting relaxation and better sleep which are essential for recovering from a cold. Basil’s essential oils, such as linalool, help reduce stress enhancing the body’s resilience to physical, emotional, and environmental stressors.
Traditional Basil Uses
Basil is widely used for both culinary and medicinal purposes. Basil herbal tea has been used in Ayurvedic and other traditional practices for centuries.
The tea is consumed to calm nerves, relieve digestive issues, reduce inflammation, and improve respiratory health. In India, it’s a go-to remedy for colds and coughs, often paired with honey and ginger for extra relief.
Buy Organic Basil
You can find basil for making tea in most local grocery stores, health food shops, and online marketplaces. When purchasing, consider responsibly sourced, organic options for maximum benefits. Here are three options to consider:
| Formulation | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Loose Basil Leaves | More affordable, fresher flavor. | Requires a tea strainer and extra preparation. |
| Basil Tea Bags | Convenient, pre-measured. | May contain additives or lower potency compared to loose leaves. |
| Basil Tea Blends | Often combined with other beneficial herbs like ginger or turmeric. | May dilute the pure basil flavor. |
Basil Tea Recipe
To make basil tea, follow these simple steps:
- Bring 1 cup of water to a boil.
- Add 1 tablespoon of dried basil leaves or a handful of fresh basil leaves.
- Reduce heat and let the leaves steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Strain the tea into a cup and sweeten with honey if desired.
- Enjoy while warm to soothe your throat and open up your sinuses.
How To Use Basil Tea
Recommended Consumption: For relief from cough and cold, it’s best to drink 1-2 cups of basil tea, preferably in the morning and evening, for up to 3-5 days or until symptoms improve.
Basil Tea Side Effects
Basil tea is generally safe, but some people may experience allergic reactions particularly for those allergic to plants in the mint family. The tea may low blood sugar levels, which may affect those with diabetes. Some studies suggest basil could interfere with hormone levels in high doses.
Who Should Avoid Basil
Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as individuals with low blood sugar or those taking medications for diabetes, should avoid basil tea. Always consult a healthcare provider if you have underlying conditions or are taking medication.
Conclusion
Basil tea offers a natural, soothing way to ease coughs and cold symptoms. With its anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and decongestant properties, it’s a great herbal remedy for respiratory relief. However, as with any herbal treatment, it’s important to enjoy it in moderation and consult your doctor if you have any concerns.
References
- Barboza, Joice Nascimento et al. “An Overview on the Anti-inflammatory Potential and Antioxidant Profile of Eugenol.” Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity vol. 2018 3957262. 22 Oct. 2018, doi:10.1155/2018/3957262 ↩︎
- Zhakipbekov, Kairat et al. “Antimicrobial and Other Pharmacological Properties of Ocimum basilicum, Lamiaceae.” Molecules (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 29,2 388. 12 Jan. 2024, doi:10.3390/molecules29020388 ↩︎
- Luís, Ângelo et al. “Chemical Profiling and Evaluation of Antioxidant and Anti-Microbial Properties of Selected Commercial Essential Oils: A Comparative Study.” Medicines (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 4,2 36. 5 Jun. 2017, doi:10.3390/medicines4020036 ↩︎
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