Your Privacy is Important to us

We encourage you to review our Terms of Service, and Privacy Policy.

By continuing, you agree to the Terms listed here. In case you want to opt out, please click "Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information" link in the footer of this page.

Opt out of the sale or sharing of personal information

We won't sell or share your personal information to inform the ads you see. You may still see interest-based ads if your information is sold or shared by other companies or was sold or shared previously.

Continue on TOI App
Open App
Login for better experience!
Login Now
Welcome! to timesofindia.com
TOI INDTOI USTOI GCC
TOI+
  • Home
  • Live
  • TOI Games
  • Top Headlines
  • India
  • City News
  • Photos
  • Business
  • Real Estate
  • Entertainment
  • Movie Reviews
  • Lifestyle
  • Podcasts
  • Elections
  • Web Series
  • Sports
  • TV
  • Food
  • Travel
  • Events
  • World
  • Music
  • Astrology
  • Videos
  • Tech
  • Auto
  • Education
  • Log Out
Follow Us On
Open App
  • ETIMES
  • CINEMA
  • VIDEOS
  • TV
  • LIFESTYLE
  • VISUAL STORIES
  • MUSIC
  • TRAVEL
  • FOOD
  • TRENDING
  • EVENTS
  • THEATRE
  • PHOTOS
  • MOVIE REVIEWS
  • MOVIE LISTINGS
  • HEALTH
  • RELATIONSHIP
  • WEB SERIES
  • BOX OFFICE

​5 reasons to include basil in summer diet for health benefits​

etimes.in | Last updated on - May 20, 2025, 19:44 IST
Comments
Share
1/6

5 reasons to include basil in summer diet for health benefits

In a study published by the National Library of Medicine, basil was shown to be rich in antioxidants and therapeutic compounds that support overall wellness. From calming the mind to protecting cells from damage, this fragrant herb offers more than just a pleasant aroma. Adding basil to your summer meals can be a simple, natural way to boost your health during the warmer months. Here's why this leafy green deserves a spot in your seasonal routine.

2/6

Boosts your mood naturally

Basil doesn’t just bring flavour to your meals—it might also lift your mood. Its natural compounds have calming effects, making it a helpful herb on hot, stressful days. Adding a handful of fresh basil to your salad or smoothie is a simple way to stay cool, both mentally and emotionally.

3/6

Supports a happy belly

Your gut will thank you for adding basil to the menu. This herb has long been used to ease digestion and reduce bloating, making it a gentle friend to your stomach. After a heavy barbecue or a late-night snack session, basil-infused dishes can help your digestive system get back on track. Plus, it’s super easy to add to just about anything, from grilled veggies to fruit salads.

4/6

Rich in antioxidants

Basil is full of antioxidants that help your body deal with daily stress and harmful stuff. These natural compounds work behind the scenes to protect your cells from damage, supporting overall wellness. Think of basil as your edible summer shield—subtle, powerful, and green.

5/6

Keeps your skin glowing

Sunshine is great, but summer can also be rough on your skin. Worry not! Basil is loaded with nutrients that help maintain a healthy complexion. Its natural oils can help support clearer skin and reduce irritation. So while you’re sipping basil-infused water or layering it on your avocado toast, know that your skin might just be soaking up those benefits too.

6/6

Freshens your breath and your plate

Let’s not forget one of basil’s more immediate benefits—it’s a natural breath refresher. Chewing on a basil leaf is a quick fix for less-than-fresh breath, especially after that garlic-loaded summer dish. Beyond that, its bold flavor adds brightness to anything you’re cooking, turning even the simplest meal into something special.


Can’t eat your food without snapping a picture first?

Join our Food Photography Contest and stand a chance to win exciting prizes!

Click HERE for details.

Join our WhatsApp Food Community to discover delicious recipes, enjoy fascinating food stories, and stay updated with the latest food news! Click here

Start a Conversation

Post comment
Featured In lifestyle
  • ‘I’m tired of seeing slums on my feed’: Chandigarh’s planning, greenery and order challenge a British architect’s perception of India
  • Chinese proverb of the day: “A woman desirous of being seen by men is…”
  • Bumblebees can roll balls, and reach the sugary treats: Study suggests buzzy friends can solve problems and remember hidden goals!
  • I went to Jagannath Temple in Puri and what I found was not god or spirituality but.......
  • 8 everyday habits that build strong problem-solving skills in kids
  • Does your child say ‘I have a tummy ache’ before school? Experts say it may actually be a deeper signal towards something else
  • 8 parenting habits that help kids become independent thinkers
  • 7 locations in India where smart city initiatives are reshaping real estate
  • Jennifer Lopez at 56 proves age is just a number: 4 personality traits that make her the ultimate 'diva'
Photostories
  • Inspiring Japanese proverb of the day: "If you do not enter the tiger's cave, you will not..."
  • Which lucky charm should you place on your office desk; based on your date of birth?
  • 8 everyday habits that build strong problem-solving skills in kids
  • Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal's penthouse is a relaxing abode of minimalism with bright bohemian colours: Art inspirations to steal
  • 8 parenting habits that help kids become independent thinkers
  • Which plant should you bring home for the positive vibes; based on your birth date
  • 7 locations in India where smart city initiatives are reshaping real estate
  • 9 iconic snakes of India's Western and Eastern Ghats
  • Pediatrician shares 6 common household items that make many children land up at emergencies
Explore more Stories
  • 10
    8 everyday habits that build strong problem-solving skills in kids
  • 10
    8 parenting habits that help kids become independent thinkers
  • 10
    9 iconic snakes of India's Western and Eastern Ghats
  • 7
    Pediatrician shares 6 common household items that make many children land up at emergencies
  • 8
    From Shah Rukh Khan to Kareena Kapoor Khan: 7 parenting lessons to learn from Bollywood celebrities
Up Next
  • ETimes
  • /
  • Life & Style
  • /
  • Food News
  • /
  • ​5 reasons to include basil in summer diet for health benefits​
About UsTerms Of UsePrivacy PolicyCookie Policy

Copyright © Jun 5, 2026, 06.14PM IST Bennett, Coleman & Co. Ltd. All rights reserved. For reprint rights: Times Syndication Service