When I have digestive and intestinal spasms

My story

A few years ago, in the office, in my “old” life, I frequently had stomach cramps after meals, without really knowing why. It didn’t seem to be linked to certain foods, but appeared mainly when I was stressed. These digestive cramps occur much less often now. And they’re no longer disabling since I’ve found basil hydrosol to be a shock ally, stopping these spasms almost instantly.

My tip

Whether or not the origin of the spasms is nervous, and whether they affect the stomach or intestine, basil hydrosol can be used. When I have a stomach or intestinal cramp, I take one or two tablespoons of this hydrosol directly in a glass of water. I repeat this ten minutes later. This is usually enough to soothe the spasm. If it doesn’t, I take a third dose. And, if I’m in a place that allows it, I fill the palm of my hand with basil hydrosol and apply it to the plexus and stomach, even though the hydrosol doesn’t really massage in.
If the spasms have a nervous origin, it’s a good idea to combine basil hydrosol with lemon balm and lemon verbena hydrosols. This releases even more of what’s left on the stomach, both literally and figuratively.

What does phytotherapy say?

Basil has a long-standing reputation for calming and soothing gastric and intestinal disorders. In the 11th century, it was included in the pharmacopoeia of the simples. Today, basil is recognized as a powerful nervous and digestive antispasmodic. It stimulates peristalsis (a set of muscular contractions enabling the progression of contents into a hollow organ) and reduces physical tension in the body, diaphragm and gastrointestinal tract. A scientific study has demonstrated the effects of basil on mucous membrane protection in cases of colitis (J. Evid. Based Complementary Altern. Med. oct. 201, 21 (4)). Basil hydrosol is composed almost exclusively of linalool and eugenol, two molecules with analgesic, antispasmodic and soothing properties. It is therefore perfectly suited to all types of spasm, whether nervous or digestive.

Did you know?

Exotic basil is also known as a powerful antispasmodic. However, its composition is very different, mainly methyl-chavicol, a “harder” molecule than the linalool and eugenol of green basil, which is much milder and easier to take

OCIMUM BASILICUM Green basil (CT linalool)

The “pistou” of the Provençal people is a plant native to India that has been acclimatized in Europe since time immemorial. This herbaceous perennial, which can grow up to 50 cm high, is generally cultivated around the Mediterranean and in most temperate regions of the globe as an aromatic for salads, soups and meats.
As in ancient times, modern medicine recognizes basil’s action on digestive disorders in nervous people. Its infusion soothes gastric spasms, combats bloating and tones the stomach. Best used fresh, the plant is also a sedative. It was once prescribed to treat hysteria. Crushed fresh leaves also soothe skin irritations.