Basil Lemon - Ocimum citriodorum

History:  The leaves have a pronounced lemon scent and are prized in Arabian, Indonesian, Laotian, Persian and Thai cuisines. Dioscorides and Galen both did not think it fit for human consumption. In Egypt the fresh leaves were scattered on fresh graves and in India some leaves are placed on the bodies of the dead to serve as a key to heaven's gates. In Tudor times it served as a farewell present, small pots being presented to visitors upon departure. In Crete it served as a symbol for "love washed with tears". Here it was known as "Kiss-me Nicholas" and daring young girls would decorate their hair with it, wafting a fragrant hint to passing Nicks. 

Characteristics: Basil oil is thin transparent fluid with light yellow to yellow-green color with aroma characteristic of Basil. A native of Africa and Seychelles, it is grown as popular culinary herb and has small white flowers. The essence is distilled from leaves and has light greenish yellow with sweet green overtones. The Basil oil derived is known for intensely fresh, sweet-spicy and vibrant aroma.

Clinical Studies:

Indications: Restorative, warming – mild sedative action. When combined with other oils like Thyme, it also acts as powerful antiseptic. It also finds application for the treatment of migraines, arthritis and paralytic conditions. It is also used to fight intestinal parasites and stimulate liver & pancreas.

Mode of Administration: It is used for inhalation , in baths and for massages. Having both cold & hot qualities, when it is used in bath or is smoothed over the body, it has invigorating effect that is very beneficial for sluggish skin & pepping up circulation.

Safety: Lemon Basil contains estragole a potentially carcinogenic and mutagenic essential oil. Do not use during pregnancy or use basil oil on small infants/children.  Robert Tisserand recommends dermal application in low dilution less than 1.4%.  Avoid in conjunction with diabetes medication.

References:
Battaglia, S.  The Complete Guide to Aromatherapy; Third Edition The International Centre of Holistic Aromatherapy, Australia, 2017
Tisserand R. Young R.  Essential Oil Safety, second edition.  Churchhill Livingstone, UK, 2013
Sheppard-Hanger S. The Aromatherapy Practitioner Reference Manual.  Atlantic Institute of Aromatherapy, USA, 2000
Caddy R. Essential Oils in Colour.  Amberwood Publishing, UK, 2005
Lawless J. The encyclopaedia of Essential Oils.  Element Books Limited, GB, 1992
Caddy R. the Essential Blending Guide.  Amberwood Publishing, UK, 2007
Weaver W.W. Sauer’s Herbal Cures.  Routledge, UK, 2001
World Wide Web Encyclopedia Britannica. USA, 2014
Photos attribution – istock Photos
LabAroma

Safety Considerations:
        Do not take essential oils internally.
        Do not apply to eyes, sensitive areas or mucous membranes.
        Do not apply undiluted to skin (for directions on proper dilution refer to an aromatherapy text).
        The information on this website is not intended to diagnose or prescribe.
        Pregnant women, nursing mothers and children should not use essential oils without first consulting a healthcare provider.
        The statements on this website have not been evaluated by the FDA.
        You should not use this information for treating a health problem or disease or to make a self-diagnosis.
        Contact your Health Care provider immediately if you suspect that you have a medical problem.

Information and statements regarding Kelley products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any health condition or disease. 
All information, content and product descriptions contained within this site is for reference purposes and is not intended to substitute advice given by a pharmacist, physician, or other licensed health-care professional. You should not use this information for treating a health problem or disease or to make a self-diagnosis.  
Contact your Health Care provider immediately if you suspect that you have a medical problem.