Cool down from the summer heat with this nature-inspired smoothie!  Basil is a must-have in my kitchen. This herb is actually part of the mint family and is great for adding a fresh, herbal flavor to food. Though Basil is tasty in pasta, side dishes, and smoothies, it also has a variety of uses for both the mind and the body.

The basil plant and Basil essential oil are rich with linalool, a naturally occurring chemical compound, which can help decrease tension when applied to the temples. Diffusing basil essential oil can help with reducing anxious feelings, and increasing mental alertness and focus.

Where Do You Get Basil?

One option is to grow it yourself in the garden, of course!  But you can also use high quality basil essential oil for your smoothie (and many other benefits)!

A note on quality: When buying essential oils, it is crucial to make sure that you are using oils that are pure and potent. Not only are you allowing yourself to receive the full benefits of essential oils, but you’re avoiding additives and contaminants, which significantly reduce the effectiveness of essential oils. I partner with doTERRA essential oils as a Wellness Advocate because they know how beneficial essential oils can be when they are pure and have a strong potency.  It’s their mission to establish high-standards with essential oil quality through their CPTG Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade® protocol. This protocol ensures that each batch of essential oils goes through strict tests to guarantee that the oils are potent and free of harmful contaminants, so you get the benefits you should!

Blueberry Basil Smoothie

INGREDIENTS

• 3/4 cup frozen blueberries
• 1 cup almond milk
• 1 scoop of your favorite protein powder or whole meal powder
• 1 teaspoon maca powder
• 1 Tablespoon collagen
• 5 basil leaves or 1 drop Basil essential oil

COMBINE ingredients, except essential oil into a blender. BLEND until smooth and creamy. Add essential oil last, to taste.

I love using maca in my smoothies because of it’s hormone balancing benefits. Learn more in this post I wrote. Collagen is a healthy dose of protein full of amino acids, with benefits for the skin, hair, joints, digestive system, and metabolism.

If you want more recipes using nature’s amazing essential oils, check out my e-book, Essential Juices and Smoothies!