The Elevation of the Precious and Life-Giving Cross

Today we remember the Elevation of the Holy Cross. The one and same cross that our Lord and Saviour, Jesus the Christ was crucified on. It was recovered by venerable and St. Helen, and is known to have healing properties. It was found covered with an unknown flower of rare beauty and fragrance, which was named "Vasiliko," or (basil)--flower of royalty. Basileus in Greek means king, so the plant Vasiliko (basil) is tied to the precious cross of the King of Glory, our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Three crosses were found that day, and the true cross was identified by a miracle. A woman of Jersalem was completely cured, even though she was near death, as she came close to the cross.

Basil looks a lot like peppermint, to which it is related. It's leaves are highly fragrant, and are used as a seasoning. Today, while reading about the natural ways cancers are being cured, I stumbled on some advice. Eat foods which are enzyme based. There are many of them. Basil, has been used for centuries for cures.

It has anti-inflammatory properties, is used in home remedies to treat respiratory tract infections, allergies, and asthma. It can reduce blood glucose, cholesterol levels and blood pressure. Used to treat the common cold, malaria, headaches, coughs, and gastric disorders, it has one drawback--t00 much can affect fertility.

Italians use tons of basil in their cooking known to have antibacterial, antiviral, anti fungal, anti tubercular and antimalarial properties. A type of basil called Holy Basil is used to build up stamina. It also appears to have antioxidant, and protection against cancer-causing substances, inhibiting the progression and progress of breast cancer tumors.

The best way to get it is from your own garden, in the summer, or fresh from the market. It is easy to grow and even just one plant can produce enough for you to have a daily supply. I like to throw it in my salad "raw is best," keeping in mind that cooking destroys important vitamins, minerals and enzymes.

I believe that when I ask for an answer, God supplies me with "little signs." The basil growing sweetly on the cross is a sign for us.

I don't think that it was an accident that St. Helen retrieved the precious cross, which not only is a symbol of our faith, but our hope. The Author and giver of Life has filled us with all good things. We just need to be open to them and to receive them.

Today go out a buy some fresh basil, which contains eugenol, an oil in the herb, that has the same anti-inflammatory effect as aspirin, can help ease inflammation that can lead to joint pain.
(magazine source: First for women, July 26, 2010)

Remember the Holy Cross and put on the oil of gladness. For through the cross, joy has come into all the world.

And you too, can be healed.


To read a sight helpful on the basil plant go here.