Here are 7 awesome health benefits of basil: •1. Basil offers 60% of your daily recommended dose of vitamin K, which helps bones and the heart to be strong. Vitamin K is also essential for the proper formation and full activation of the Gla proteins. The Gla protein osteocalcin, when fully carboxylated by vitamin K, allows for the binding of calcium to the bone matrix. •2. Holy Basil, which grows all over India might just be another answer to defluoridating water in poor countries all over the world. Research scientists at Rajasthan University have discovered that Tulsi (holy basil) can replace some of the more expensive alternatives to fluoride removal. •3. Basil contains high levels of zeaxanthin, a flavonoid carotenoid compound that can be selectively absorbed into the retinal macula lutea (a part of the eye) where it was found to filter harmful UV rays from reaching the retina. Studies suggest that common herbs, fruits, and vegetables that are rich in zeaxanthin help to protect from age-related macular disease (AMRD), especially in the elderly. •4. Unique water soluble flavonoids in basil, called orientin and vicenin protect our cells. Especially the white blood cells are positively affected, enduring radiation and oxygen-based damage more easily with the use of basil. •5. Basil is full of iron, the important mineral that helps to move oxygen through the body via the red blood cells. Just 100 grams (a handful of leaves) can supply up to 18% RDA of iron. •6. Basil protects against ‘bad’ bacteria. This is due to the volatile oils is basil: estragole, linalool, cineole, eugenol, sabinene, myrcene, and limonene. Basil can wipe out things like Listeria monocytogenes, Staphylococcus aureus, and Escherichia coli. •7. Basil is full of vitamin A. This important nutrient has been shown to reduce certain types of cancers and aid vision.
Posted on: Fri, 26 Jul 2013 22:42:01 +0000
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