Basil

Used in aromatherapy applications, Basil Essential Oil is ideal for soothing or eliminating headaches, fatigue, sadness, and the discomforts of asthma, as well as for inspiring psychological endurance. It is also reputed to benefit those who suffer from poor concentration, allergies, sinus congestion or infections, and symptoms of fevers. Furthermore, the scent of Sweet Basil helps to repel insects and to eliminate the bacteria that cause unpleasant room odors, thus effectively deodorizing stale indoor environments, including cars, as well as foul-smelling fabrics, including furniture. Its digestive properties offer relief for symptoms of metabolic malfunctions, such as nausea, hiccups, vomiting, and constipation. 

COSMETIC:Antimicrobial, Antioxidant, Anti-inflammatory, Balancing, Brightening, Cleansing, Diaphoretic, Refreshing, Soothing, Stimulating, Strengthening, Tightening, Tonic

ODOROUS: Antimicrobial, Antispasmodic, Antidepressant, Clarifying, Digestive, Energizing, Expectorant, Febrifuge, Insecticide, Nervine, Stomachic, Stimulating, Tonic, Uplifting

MEDICINAL: Antimicrobial, Antispasmodic, Anti-inflammatory, Antioxidant, Analgesic, Carminative, Diaphoretic, Digestive, Emmenagogue, Expectorant, Febrifuge, Nervine, Protective, Stomachic, Stimulating, Tonic

Basil Essential Oil is derived from the leaves of theOcimum basilicumbotanical, better known as the Basil herb. This plant receives its name from the Latin wordbasiliusas well as the Greek wordbasilikón phutón, which mean “royal plant,” hence Basil is also known as the Queen of Herbs orl'herbe royale, meaning “royal herb" in French. It may also be referred to as Saint Joseph’s Wort, Great Basil, European Basil, French Basil, Common Basil, or Sweet Basil.

Several religions and spiritual beliefs practice rituals that emphasize the significance of the use of Basil. In Judaism, traditional stories advocate the use of Basil for increased strength during times of fasting. In various Orthodox churches, Basil is often used to either sprinkle or prepare holy water. As well, pots of the herb are often positioned below church altars to pay reverence to the belief that it was found growing around the grave of Christ. According to various other belief systems, such as those of Europe, India, and the ancient civilizations of Egypt and Greece, Basil was buried with those who passed away, as it was believed to have protective qualities that could help keep them secure on their journey to the Afterlife, guaranteeing their safe arrival at the gates of Heaven. In other parts of the world, Basil has come to represent good fortune. Accordingly, in places like Mexico, bunches of Basil are sometimes hung in shop doorways or windows, as the growth of the herb is believed to reflect the owner’s diligence as well as the success of the business.

Throughout history, the Basil herb, believed to have a fortifying effect on a person’s mind and emotions, has been used for multiple applications and was thus made in multiple forms, including teas, dried powders, and oils. The natural anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antibiotic, antiviral, anti-depressant, and diuretic qualities of Basil made it a common component in the traditional medical practices of Asia, such as in India, where it was known as “Tulsi” and was thought of as sacred.

Basil belongs to the Mint family and, traditionally, this culinary botanical’s seeds and leaves – even its essential oil – found their main uses in cooking worldwide, as it was reputed to eliminate harmful bacteria and odors. Basil and its derivatives were popular ingredients in beverages and Italian foods, such as pizza, pasta, and salads. They continue to be popular ingredients in pickled or fermented foods, sauces, pastes, condiments, and meats. Furthermore, they have come to be common additions to perfumes as well as oral hygiene products. Today, they remain ideal for supporting skin, hair, and kidney health, soothing headaches, head colds, coughs, stomach spasms, diarrhea, and constipation, and for addressing a loss of appetite, intestinal worms, and fluid retention.

Hoag Fudge Family Birthing Suites

Learn more about this beautiful environment created to make the birth experience feel like you are at a five-star resort. We are honored to offer our Relax, Breathe & Receive Aromatherapy Birthing Ritual that we developed with Hoag to help harmonize the labor experience and welcome new life into the world.

Hoag Flywell at John Wayne Airport

Designed to help travelers ease jet lag & jitters. Our complimentary aromatherapy bar is a first class experience.

Hoag Health Center

Check out our complimentary aromatherapy bar & guest speaker series to learn more about the benefits of essential oils and breath work.