Beneficial Basil

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Benefits

The amount of flavonoids in basil helps protect your body at a cellular level! Wow! If that’s not enough it also has antibacterial benefits and can decrease inflammation in the body. The carotenoids in basil helps your cardiovascular health buy protecting the blood vessels, and even helping with cholesterol build up. 

How to Choose and Keep

It is always best to buy fresh whenever you can. I like to have dried in the house just in case. You will get more flavor from fresh. When buying fresh make sure the leaves look lively and are a nice green color. Store in the fridge wrapped in a damp paper towel until it begins to wilt. You can also freeze basil and use in cooking.  Freeze by putting in an ice cube tray and fill with water. Dried basil should be stored in an airtight container for about 6 months. 

Preparation

If you are cooking with fresh basil it is best to put in near the end of cooking. Make sure to clean with water if it is fresh. Sprinkle dried basil on any foods you want!

Nutrients

Vitamin K, Iron, Calcium, Vitamin A, Fiber, Manganese, Tryptophan, Vitamin B6, Magnesium, Vitamin C, and Potassium.

Action Steps

1. Go buy fresh basil and freeze half and save other half.

2. Use the fresh basil in a omelette..Yummy!

3. Make a form of pesto by pureeing basil, garlic and olive oil.

4. Wrap a black olive or cherry tomato with basil and a meat like salami. Sprinkle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

(Resources: whfoods.com)


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