A member of the mint family, basil is a culinary herb that brings multiple benefits.

With antibacterial and antimicrobial properties, it is particularly good for eliminating harmful bacteria on food. Hence, some people add basil leaves to their salads for food safety.

In addition, basil leaves also add flavor to your food.

Containing significant amounts of antioxidants, basil leaves can help you cope better with stress by boosting your immunity.

Basil has also been shown to be useful in preventing heart diseases.

References
[1] Collins, Elise Marie. An A-Z Guide to Healing Foods: A Shopper’s Companion. San Francisco, California: Conari Press, 2009. Print.

Cindy L. TJOL is trained in Psychology, Acupuncture and Traditional Chinese Medicine. She has several years of experience writing on natural health on the internet. Follow her on her blog and read her other articles at Insights On Health.com.