Ocimum basilicum

Sweet basil acts principally on the digestive and nervous systems, easing flatulence, stomach cramps, colic and indigestion. It is taken internally in the treatment of feverish illnesses, poor digestion, nausea, abdominal cramps, gastro-enteritis, migraine, insomnia, depression and exhaustion. Externally, they are used to treat acne, loss of smell, insect stings, snake bites and skin infections. The mucilaginous seed is given in infusion in the treatment of gonorrhoea, dysentery and chronic diarrhoea. It is remove film and opacity from the eyes also. The root is used in the treatment of bowel complaints in children. Extracts from the plant are bactericidal and are also effective against internal parasites.