Could pesto be a prescription for swine flu? When I heard that some people are using basil as a treatment for H1N1, I had to know more. Here’s what I discovered…

It turns out that a variety of basil known as holy basil or tulsi (Ocimum tenuiflorum), which has long been used as a medicinal herb in Ayurveda, is now being used in India and elsewhere to treat H1N1. According to WebMD, “chemicals in holy basil are thought to decrease pain and swelling (inflammation).” In addition to H1N1, holy basil is used for influenza, the common cold, asthma, bronchitis, headache, earache, and other conditions. Whether eating holy basil can prevent the flu is up for debate, but its anti-inflammatory properties could help with relief and recovery.

Even if you don’t have this particular type of basil around, other varieties are also believed to have health benefits. For more information on this versatile herb, check out Precision Nutrition’s feature, What’s So Healthy About Basil?

Stay healthy this season and Live Life Loud!

Image: steevo2005