Sweet basil has a long history of  medicinal and culinary use, dating at least back to ancient Greece, and probably before this time further to the East.  The oil shares the sweet-herbal scent of the fresh leaves, from which it is distilled.

 

 

In the bath, in a diffuser or in a base oil for massage, basil oil has a refreshing effect on the senses, and is highly recommended for those who find themselves exhausted by constant stress.  Tension headaches are often responsive to small amounts of basil oil, and it is also gently hypotensive, lowering the blood pressure.

 

As with many oils from culinary herbs, sweet basil has a tonic effect on the digestion, strengthening and stimulating this system.  In addition to this, its anti-viral properties make it a useful oil in cases of coughs, colds and flu.

 

Last but not least, basil may be used to soothe insect bites, making this oil a useful addition to any holiday bag.