Basil is a well known flavoring in Italian foods and a primary ingredient in pesto, but it is also a medicinal herb.  According to herbal tradition, basil helps get rid of stomach cramps and gas.  It aids digestion and promotes normal bowel functions.  Basil also improves kidney function.  A mixture of basil juice and honey is put on the eye to treat cataract.   Basil can help those with diabetes by lowering blood sugar levels.  Basil oil can be put in the ears to fight earache.  The juice can also be made into a gargle to fight sore throat.  It can also help lower cholesterol.  For colds and flu, boil basil leaves into a tea and add honey and ginger.  Placing a few leaves of basil under your pillow is said to reduce insomnia.   Basil contains Eugenol, which reduces pain, so basil can be used on insect bites and wounds to reduce pain.  Basil is sometimes used in herbal shampoos to condition the hair.