In case you are an avid Thai food lover, you must have been captivated by the aromatic fragrance most Thai platters come with, besides the mouth-watering dishes they offer. While it is undeniable that Thai food is all about aroma and herbs, one ingredient that’s truly outstanding is Lemon Basil or Lao Basil.
A hybrid of sweet basil and African basil, these leaves are a bundle of clear citrus notes and are a staple in Indonesian, Philippines, Lao, Persian and Arabic and Thai cuisines.
Also Read: Choose Basil Oil For Healthy Skin And Hair
What is Lemon Basil?
Also known as Hoary Basil or Thai Lemon basil, this herb cultivated mostly in southern Asian and Northern Africa belongs to the mint family. The history of this herb finds its origin to ancient Greece, an essential part of their traditional therapeutic medical practices, and also a symbol of mourning.
Laden with an astringent flavour, it is used in vegetables, seafood rice and tea. For Indonesians, Lemon Basil is Kemangi and they love it in their salads. The flowers of Kemangi too are a part of their main cuisine. In Thailand, Lemon basil is used extensively in curries and also in noodle-based dishes while in the west, these bright green tender leaves are generously served along with seafood or vegetables.
Health Benefits of Lemon Basil
Protects Against Vision Loss
Lemon Basil is an excellent source of beta-carotene, a pigment found mostly in brightly coloured vegetables. The body converts beta-carotene into vitamin A, which aids in functioning of mucus membranes and is essential for a good vision.
Beneficial In Wound Healing
Lemon Basil is a great source of Vitamin K. This Vitamin assists the body in faster wound healing. The herb also provides considerable magnesium, iron, manganese, copper, calcium, and Vitamin C to the body.
Anti-inflammatory Benefits
Lemon Basil contains Citral and Limonene that has well known anti-inflammatory benefits. Those are particularly effective at protecting against breast and colon cancers as citral limits the growth of breast cancer cells.
Controls Cortisol Levels
Lemon Basil keeps the cortisol, the stress hormone levels in check. The elevated levels of this hormone can cause multiple health conditions such as diabetes, reduced immune function, obesity, and even memory problems.
Also Read: Cortisol Structure Crucial Functions Adverse Effects
Lemon Basil Recipes
Roasted Lemon Basil Potatoes
Ingredients
900 grams potatoes, chopped roughly
¼ cup fresh lemon juice
2½ teaspoons fine sea salt
6 tablespoons unsalted butter cut into pieces
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ cup chopped fresh basil
1 teaspoon finely grated Lemon Basil
Method
Combine the potatoes, lemon juice, 1½ teaspoon salt, and 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pan
Add enough cold water to the pan to cover the potatoes
Bring to a boil over medium-high heat and cook until the potatoes are soft
Drain the potatoes and transfer to a bowl
Season the potatoes with the remaining 1 teaspoon of salt, the pepper, and garlic powder and toss well
Melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add half of the potatoes and cook until they begin to crisp and brown for about 5 to 7minutes
Transfer the potatoes to a plate
Add 2 more tablespoons of butter and repeat the process with the remaining potatoes
Once the second half has started to brown and crisp up, return to the first batch
Toss both batches with the remaining butter, fresh basil, and lemon basil until the potatoes are well-coated
Serve hot
Nutrition
The recipe is loaded with potassium, Vitamin A and Vitamin C. Lemon Basil also is a good source of Vitamin K that assists in wound healing. The herb also has a significant amount of magnesium, iron, copper and calcium. The body absorbs this vitamin in the small intestine and stores it in the liver. Potatoes are a main ingredient that provides ample fiber to the body and are replete with antioxidants.
Tiny Tip
Cooking with Lemon Basil is leisurely as there are no rules. However, to derive the best nutrition benefit from this aromatic herb, add it towards the end of cooking because its delicate flavour may not act great to lengthy cooking times and then, you are all set to relish this recipe.
Additional Health Benefits
Supports Respiratory Health
The anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties of lemon basil can relieve symptoms of respiratory conditions like the common cold or bronchitis and benefit respiratory health by clearing mucus from the airways.
Enhances Cognitive Function
Owing to its neuroprotective effects, lemon basil protects brain cells from damage and supports cognitive health might support brain health. Its anti-inflammatory properties may contribute to improved cognitive function and memory.
Supports Skin Health
Due to its antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, lemon basil can be beneficial for skin health by promoting overall skin wellness and treating skin conditions like acne.
Reduces Stress And Anxiety
Lemon basil is also a mild adaptogen that assists the body in adapting to stress and maintaining balance, reducing stress's effects and improving mood.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Are The Health Benefits Of Lemon Basil?
Lemon basil offers multiple nutritional and medicinal benefits:
Helps fight oxidative stress and supports overall immunity.
Anti-inflammatory properties may help reduce minor inflammation in the body.
Traditionally used to relieve bloating, gas, indigestion, and nausea.
Antibacterial and antifungal effects help inhibit some harmful microbes.
Steam or tea made with lemon basil may soothe mild colds, cough, and sinus congestion.
Its refreshing aroma may promote relaxation and reduce stress.
Can Lemon Basil Be Eaten Raw?
Yes, lemon basil can be safely eaten raw.
It is commonly added raw to salads, sandwiches, soups, and garnishes.
Raw leaves offer the strongest lemony aroma and preserve the antioxidants.
Ensure the leaves are fresh, washed, and pesticide-free.
What Are The Side Effects Of Basil Leaves?
Basil leaves are generally safe, but some possible side effects include:
Allergic reactions (rare), like itching or swelling, may occur in sensitive individuals.
Some basil species contain eugenol, which may enhance blood-thinning effects if consumed in large amounts.
Excessive consumption may reduce blood glucose levels.
Some varieties of basil oil may stimulate uterine contractions; foods are safe, but concentrated extracts should be avoided during pregnancy.
May interact with blood thinners, diabetes medications, or anti-hypertensive drugs when consumed excessively.
Is Lemon Basil Good For the Kidneys?
Yes, lemon basil is generally safe for the kidneys when consumed in normal culinary amounts.
It has mild diuretic properties that may help with hydration and natural detoxification.
No scientific evidence shows that lemon basil harms the kidneys.
However, people with advanced kidney disease should avoid overeating any herbs due to potassium content and should consult a doctor in such cases.
Can Lemon Basil Raise Blood Pressure?
No, lemon basil does not raise blood pressure.
In fact, basil contains compounds like eugenol that may help relax blood vessels and support healthy blood pressure.
(This article is reviewed by Soumita Basu Ayurveda Pharma Expert)
Author Profile
Kalyani Krishna:
With a dual Bachelor’s degree in Commerce and Law, coupled with over 15 years of extensive experience in mainstream media, Kalyani Krishna is a seasoned professional adept in writing, editing, and content strategy. Passionate about the health sector, she specializes in crafting meticulously researched articles that are both factual and grammatically flawless and deliver accurate and valuable insights to the audience.
References:
- Antibacterial Activity of Lemon Basil (Ocimum citriodorum) and Key Lime (Citrus aurantifolia S.) Extract Combination on Streptococcus mutants Department of Dental Nursing, Politeknik Kesehatan Kementerian Kesehatan Jambi, Jambi, Indonesia
https://oamjms.eu/index.php/mjms/article/view/9978
- https://iopscience.iop.org/article/10.1088/1755-1315/803/1/012028/pdf
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