November Plant Deva
The human evolution should give strength to the deva, and the deva, joy to the human.
Alice A. Bailey, Letters on Occult Meditation
Basil
Trust
Uses: good luck, love, prosperity, reconciliation, success
Deities: Aine, Aradia, Ares, Erzulie, Jupiter, Krishna, Loki, Mars, Seth, Vishnu
Celestial: Mars
Astrological sign: Scorpio
Basil will indicate energies surrounding trust and the workings of relationships. Consideration and putting more into gaining harmonious ground are required and although this does include romance, basil is referencing any relationship or connection. Education and travel are all areas that are shining with positive vibes at the moment, but be wary of being in situations or relationships that you know are not good for you.
Basil is an herb that will aid in building enthusiasm, excitement, and passion for everyday life, especially during those days when it feels like the weight of the world is on your shoulders. Basil sparks inspiration and the eagerness to achieve your life goals and get your back into your groove. Use Basil to add a little bit of zest and gusto back into your life.
Basil has been used globally as an important medicinal plant to treat physical ailments throughout history. Many of Basil's health benefits come from the many antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals it contains and its essential oil. To receive the most benefits, it is recommended to use fresh Basil since these compounds disappear during the drying process.
Sweet Basil, in particular, contains antioxidants that help the body fight free radicals that can cause cell damage and increase the risk for a wide range of health issues, including cancer, heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes. Holy Basil, another Basil variety, is said to help protect against different cancers, including lung, liver, oral, and skin cancer. It contains phytochemicals which can also assist in reducing the side effects of radiation therapy.
Basil extracts have been reported to lower circulating blood glucose levels and inflammation, making them beneficial in preventing diabetes and other forms of metabolic syndrome. In addition, other studies have shown that its extracts can protect against harmful bacterial growth. (3)
Basil's eugenol can help reduce blood pressure by blocking calcium channels. In addition, the herb's essential oils can aid in lowering cholesterol and triglycerides. Basil also includes magnesium, which allows muscles and blood arteries to relax, improving blood flow.
This herb has anti-inflammatory properties. Its potent essential oils aid in reducing inflammation, which is the basis of many disorders, including heart disease and rheumatoid arthritis.
Basil can assist with depression, anxiety, and other mood-related illnesses and disorders. Some people think of it as an antidepressant since it affects brain activity through the adrenal cortex. In addition, Basil has been shown in studies to have a high potential as a natural adaptogen or herbal therapy that helps the body adapt to stress and regulate the negative effects of stressors on the body.
Basil has a wide range of emotional healing effects. Its elevating effects can aid with low self-esteem, negative mental processes, and even increasing awareness of one's environment. During the day, it is used to alleviate mental tiredness to keep you motivated, or in the evening to relax and clear the mind in preparation for the next day.
Basil is known to have aphrodisiac properties that awaken the senses and causes excitement. It assists with relationships whose interests have waned by bringing the focus back towards their partners and strengthening their bond. It's used to help two individuals communicate better, attract a lover, and celebrate love.
Every month we will explore a new plant deva as divined by Cheralyn Darcy’s Green Witch Oracle Cards.
Use this plant to guide and inspire you this month as you meditate, explore and create your art. Please share anything that you create that is inspired by this month’s plant deva.