Basil > Reviews > Use BASIL OIL not BASIL OIL

Author's product rating:   

Side effects	Hardly any
Effectiveness	Excellent

Advantages:	great skin tonic
Disadvantages:	can cause reaction on sensitive skin so test first

Recommend to potential buyers:

yes

Full review

Before I start I just need to clear up a common misunderstanding about Basil Oil. The term Basil Oil is often used to refer to virgin olive oil which is infused with basil leaves to make it aromatic. This is used in cooking. The basil oil used in aromatherpy is obtained from entire above ground part of the plant (ocimum basilicum) by steam distillation and is a different thing.

The aroma of this essential oil is spicey and fresh. It has a slightly balsamic tang to it and is grown commercialy in many different countries including Bulgaria.
It is used in perfumes, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, soap, medicine and fruit and will keep for up to three years from the manufacturing date, if its kept in a cool, dark place.

Uses
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Basil is a good tonic for the nerves. It also seems to lift depression.

Can help headaches and relieve fainting spells.

Use to treat nasal polyps and earache.

Has an affect on the adrenal cortex so may help to relief allergies.

Use in sinus trouble, asthma, bronchitis.

Has an anti-septic action and may help with stomach upsets.

Use for wasp and other insect bites.

Can relieve gout as it reduces the uric acid levels in the blood.

Can aid in treatment of acne and makes an excellent skin tonic.

How to use:
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Place in a difuser for inhalation or add a few drops to a carrier oil and use in the bath.

Add 3 drops to 10 mils of carrier oil (almond or grapeseed) and use for massage.

Make into a compress.

Warning:
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Do not use during pregnancy

Over use of this oil has a stupefying effect.

If you have sensitive skin test this oil on a small patch of skin first. The easiest way to do this is to out a drop on the underside of your arm and cover with a large plaster. If you get a skin reactionit will usually appear within 24 hours.

Verdict:
++++++++

I have found this oil very effective in treating insect bits. Just one drop rubbed on the bite takes the itch and sting away from it.

It is also very good used as a skin tonic. It leaves the face feeling clean and tingly. Be careful if you have sensitive skin though and always test first. I have skin that reacts to lots of things but it basil essential oil didn't affect it.

Perhaps my favourite way of using this oil is to use it in a diffuser. The aroma is totally relaxing. (A couple of drops in a warm bath works well too.)