Albahaca – Ocimum basilicum

Albahaca, in english basil, is a medicinal herb that grows to a height of around one meter.  It has oval or lanceolate leaves around 5 cm in length that are very aromatic. The flowers are grouped in spiral patterns formed by 6 flowers. This aromatic plant is typically know for its culinary uses, being a popular herb to spice food, but its medicinal properties are also well known in the Amazon.

It is often used for digestive problems, to prevent gastric spasms, and is very useful in the cases of the gastritis, hiatal hernia, and flatulence.  The aroma of the plant stimulates the appetite, reduces nausea, and can also stimulate the production of milk in nursing mothers. It strengthens the nervous system, treats mouth ulcers and bad breath, and can even be used in abdominal massages.  A seed of albahaca placed in the eye will remove unwanted material from the eye, like mucus.

Albahaca is often used in conjunction with other plants.  One popular remedy is to combine five leaves of albahaca, three leaves of malva, and one large leaf of salvia and brew a tea.  This will calm the symptoms of indigestion, gastritis, and even reduce an inflamed prostate.  It is often used in the treatment of prostate cancer.