Basil essential oil, also known as perilla essential oil, is extracted from a plant called star anise. Basil essential oil is one of the representatives of spicy essential oils, and it has a warm and pungent character.
The history of basil essential oil:
Basil has long been regarded by the Greeks as a precious plant. In Christian ceremonies, kings anointed themselves with holy oil to purify body and soul and to increase imperial vitality, and basil oil was one of the ingredients of that holy oil, so basil was regarded as the king of plants. The English name basil also evolved from Greek, and the botanical name of basil, Ocumum basilicum, comes from the Greek basilikos, meaning royal. Basil is hailed as the king of herbs, so basil oil is naturally also called the king of oils. Many Greek churches place potted basil plants to express the holiness and majesty of the church.
There are many varieties of basil plants, and so far there are roughly more than 150 varieties. Basil originated in Asia and was later introduced to Europe, where people found that basil was well suited to growing and multiplying very luxuriantly there. Among the different kinds of basil, sweet basil is favored by the aromatherapy world, so in aromatherapy the basil essential oil usually used is extracted from sweet basil; it has a good effect on regulating menstruation and is also an excellent product for nourishing the spirit.
Basil is a hairy plant that bears small white flowers. It is likewise beloved by Indians in religious ceremonies and is regarded by Indians as a "sacred herb." It is said that Indians once used basil to worship the deity Krishna, thereby praying for the longevity of all things and for living and working in peace and contentment. It is one of the common medicinal materials in India's traditional natural medicine (Ayurveda), mainly used to regulate the digestive system and treat respiratory problems, and it has a history of many years.
Basil essential oil can be obtained by extracting the flowers, leaves, or the whole plant of basil. The extraction method for basil essential oil is usually distillation, and the color of basil essential oil ranges from pale yellow to yellow-green. The scent of basil essential oil is very fresh, with a sweet and spicy grassy aroma. As for emotions, basil essential oil can nourish the spirit and increase people's inner strength, encouraging us to face difficulties and setbacks; this is the beautiful side of the effects of basil essential oil.
How to use basil essential oil
Aromatherapy diffuser method
The principle of using an aromatherapy diffuser is the same as that of the inhalation method. The main function of the diffuser is to disperse the essential oil into the air so that we can absorb it through breathing. A traditional diffuser generally uses a candle or electricity to heat water, adds a few drops of essential oil to the water, and uses the warm water to carry the essential oil molecules into the air for us to inhale, thereby stimulating the nerve endings of the olfactory organs in the nose.
Steam method:Fill a washbasin with hot water (as long as it produces steam), add a few drops of essential oil, bend forward and cover your head and the basin with a towel, then slowly breathe deeply. The principle is the same as the inhalation method, and this method is especially suitable for people with colds or flu.
Add a few drops of essential oil while running the water (no more than 5 drops), and use the impact of the water to disperse the essential oil in the water. The water does not need to be too hot, but the bathroom must be kept warm. Soak the whole body for at least ten minutes, relax, and breathe deeply.
Clay mask method: Mix powdered clay with an appropriate amount of distilled water, still mineral water, or floral water to make a paste, then add suitable essential oil. Apply it to the face and wait until dry, then wash it off with warm water. If dry or allergic skin needs to use a clay mask, 1 teaspoon of carrier oil can be added to reduce the mask's irritation to the skin.
Massage method:Dilute the essential oil incarrier oil, preferably at a concentration of no more than 3%. Shake gently to mix evenly, store in a dark glass bottle, and mark the date and ingredients on the bottle. When using, pour the massage oil out directly for use.
Foot soak method:Prepare a basin, add hot water (at about 40 degrees Celsius) to about ankle height, add a few drops of essential oil, and soak for about 10 minutes. If the water temperature is too low, more hot water can be added.
Compress method:After massaging with the diluted essential oil, wrap the affected area with cloth, then place a heated or chilled pad over the cloth to help the essential oil exert its effect.