This has become very difficult to find, especially the linalol chemotype, as the production of basil in Europe has decreased dramatically in the past few years owing to falling market prices. New sources in Egypt are starting to produce high-quality organic and biodynamic basil hydrosol CT linalol.
An extremely effective digestive aid, it stimulates peristalsis and reduces spasm in the gastrointestinal tract. Basil is a fast-acting carminative; add two teaspoons to a small glass of water and sip slowly for relief of gas and bloating. It can also relieve occasional constipation caused by stress or poor diet, although a teaspoon of olive oil with one drop of basil essential oil taken every thirty minutes will also clear the problem.
Basil is considered balancing to the autonomic nervous system, and the hydrosol certainly bears out this finding. Its effects on stress states are rapid and efficient, bringing a sense of calm, reducing physical tension in the body, including headaches, and calming spasms or tension in the diaphragm and digestive tract. Combine with Melissa or lemon verbena to make a nervous stomach vanish almost immediately.
Other initial trials undertaken with basil include treatment of problems associated with the ileo-cecal valve and the pyloric valve. The first indications were some fairly significant relief for those with hiatal hernias, reflux, and aerophagia, although these findings are completely experimental at this stage.