Today we will tell you about beneficial and harmful Properties of basil. There are about 69 species of this green. The homeland of basil is South Asia. IT appeared in Europe only in the XVI century. The name of the basil is Latin, with ancient Greek roots and the etymology of the word is unknown.

Basil is an essential component not only in a professional but amateur kitchen too. Without this greenery is not possible to imagine a real Italian pizza, various sauces, and beloved Caprese salad.

100 grams of fresh basil contains 3.15 g protein, 0.6 g fat, 2.7 g carbohydrates, 92 g of water and 23 calories. Same amount of dried basil contains 251 calories, because of a high level of carbohydrates. In addition, it is rich in vitamins A, C, B2, PP.

Basil is used not only in cooking but also in medicine. The plant has an unusual anti-bacterial effect. It helps not only to the common cold but also asthma and tooth decay. It is also recommended as a sedative.

In spite of this, basil contains mercury and is harmful during pregnancy, epilepsy, and diabetes.

Basil is used in a variety of beverages. Tea with honey and basil best remedy against colds.