Basil is used to treat worm infections, warts, intestinal gas, kidney problems, fluid retention, and stomach spasms. Insect and snake bites are also treated with it. Basil is sometimes used by women before and after childbirth to encourage blood flow and to begin the flow of breast milk.

The Italian super-power herb is so popular in the U.S. that Hawaii fresh basil production is estimated at 12.3 million pounds, valued at a record $29.4 million in 2021.