Basil leaves: A natural fix for your sore throat
What's the story
Basil leaves are well-known for their aromatic properties and have been used in traditional medicine to treat various ailments.
However, one of the not-so-common benefits of basil leaves is that it can provide quick relief from a sore throat.
Here's how you can use basil leaves effectively to bring down your throat discomfort.
You might just find a natural remedy to accompany other treatments.
Natural defense
Antimicrobial properties of basil
Basil leaves have essential oils with antimicrobial properties that can help fight off bacteria and viruses responsible for throat infections.
These oils include eugenol, which is known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-pain properties.
Using basil as gargle or tea can help in reducing the microbial load in the throat, thereby providing relief from symptoms.
Simple brew
Preparing basil tea
To prepare basil tea, boil some water and add fresh or dried basil leaves. Let it steep for about ten minutes and strain.
Sipping on this warm tea can soothe an irritated throat and provide comfort owing to its anti-inflammatory properties.
Adding honey or ginger may make it more soothing but won't change its effectiveness.
Effective rinse
Gargling with basil water
If you want to attack sore throats directly, gargling with basil-infused water can be useful.
Boil some water with a handful of basil leaves and let it cool a little before use.
Gargling multiple times a day may reduce swelling and irritation in the throat region by directly applying the beneficial compounds present in basil.
Daily use
Incorporating basil into diet
Including fresh basil in your daily meals can provide constant support to your immune health due to its high antioxidant content.
Tossing it into salads, soups, or smoothies will not just add flavor, but also give you constant exposure to its beneficial compounds.
These may help prevent recurrent sore throats.