Basil is one of the popular spices in Vietnamese meals. Not only does it make dishes more delicious, basil is also considered a valuable medicine that can help prevent diseases, especially cancer (K).

If you have a pot of basil in your home, the whole family can enjoy many wonderful health benefits from this vegetable.

Herbs help prevent cancer, have 1 plant and the whole family will be healthy

1. Basil - Familiar spice, precious medicinal herb

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) belongs to the Lamiaceae family, has a characteristic aroma, and a mild spicy taste. This vegetable is often used for breakfast, as a spice in pho, beef noodle soup, hu tieu, or stir-fried with many other foods. Besides its culinary value, basil is also a medicinal herb in Oriental medicine with many health benefits.

2. How does basil help prevent cancer?

Basil contains many powerful antioxidants such as flavonoids, rosmarinic acid, εugenol and ʟuteolin. These compounds have the ability to:

• Prevent the growth of cancer cells: Some studies show that substances in basil help destroy or slow the growth of cancer cells, especially liver cancer, breast cancer and lung cancer.
• Reduce inflammation, anti-oxidant: Basil has strong anti-inflammatory properties, helping to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals - one of the main causes of cancer.
• Strengthen the immune system: Regular use of basil can help the body fight off attacks from bacteria, viruses and other pathogens.

Herbs help prevent cancer, have 1 plant and the whole family will be healthy

3. Other health benefits of basil

In addition to its cancer prevention properties, basil also brings many other benefits such as:

• Improve digestion: Helps reduce bloating, indigestion, stimulates the digestive system to work better.
• Reduce stress, aid sleep: Basil essential oil has the effect of relaxing the mind, reducing stress, and improving sleep quality.
• Regulates blood pressure, good for the heart: Eugenol in basil helps dilate blood vessels, lowers blood pressure naturally and reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease.
• Helps control blood sugar: Some studies show that basil can help reduce blood sugar levels, supporting diabetes control.
• Good for skin and hair: Basil has the ability to disinfect, reduce acne and make hair stronger.

4. How to use basil to achieve the best results

• Breakfast: Basil can be eaten with many dishes such as pho, vermicelli, porridge or made into salad.
• Make basil tea: Use fresh or dried basil leaves steeped in hot water, add a little honey to enhance the flavor.
• Make juice: Combine basil with other vegetables such as carrots and apples to create nutritious juice.
• Using basil essential oil: Basil essential oil can be used for steam inhalation and massage to help relax the body and reduce stress.

5. Notes when using basil

• Do not use too much: Although beneficial, using basil in excess can cause low blood pressure, affecting pregnant women and people using blood thinners.
• Choose clean basil, free of pesticides: To ensure safety, you should grow basil at home or buy from a reputable source.

Basil is not only a familiar spice but also a precious "medicine" that helps prevent cancer and protect overall health. With a pot of basil in the house, the whole family can enjoy many wonderful benefits from this vegetable. Add basil to your daily menu to take advantage of its many uses!