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I remind you that the information provided in this series is for information purposes only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information is not intended to be patient education, neither is it to be construed as such. It does not create any patient-physician relationship and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment where required. Consult a doctor for medical advice, treatment or diagnosis.
Also, while every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, you are strongly advised to take responsibility and do your own research.
In the previous article, we looked at the many uses of the Tolu Balsam plant, also called Balsam of Tolu.
In this article we are going to look at sweet basil, an herb that is commonly used in cooking recipes.
A love-hate relationship?
Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum), was first cultivated over 5,000 years ago and has a strong liquorice flavor. This distinctiveness is what makes it an acquired taste. If you have never tasted it on its own, you just might develop a love-hate relationship with it.
The genus name of the herb, “Ocimum“, means “to be fragrant” and the species name “basilicum“, means “royal/king“.
Today, sweet basil is frequently combined with tomato sauce, as well as other herbs. It’s almost like bringing an odd couple together.
At the end of this article, you will find a recipe for pesto lasagne. Yummm…
Growing sweet basil
Basil is very easy to grow as long as the temperature does not fall below 50 degrees and is in full sunshine. It is popularly used both in the fresh form as well as the dried.
If you decide to grow basil, check out the following video:
A bit of trivia
An interesting bit of trivia about Basil is that it was considered a royal (Latin: basilicum) herb with a strong association pertaining to love. It has to do with how men planned on proposing to their fair maidens. The man would bring a sprig of Basil and if the woman accepted his gift, she was silently agreeing to love him and be faithful to him for eternity.
How basil is used medicinally
Basil is related to the Mint family and just knowing that might trigger within you some ideas as to its many medicinal uses. Most people associate anything “minty” with aiding the digestive system, for example, dealing with gas and bloating. Herbalists use Basil quite commonly for health ailments such as
- fatigue,
- stomach cramps,
- nausea and/or vomiting,
- constipation,
- headaches,
- mild depression, and
- anxiety.
When Basil is used for these purposes, it is generally made into a hot tea for drinking. Some people claim that a nice hot cup of Basil tea can contribute greatly to a good night’s sleep. In this way, sweet basil acts as a nervine.
Do you remember what a nervine is?
You can also purchase Basil capsules at herbal/health food stores as well if you do not care for the taste of the tea.
To take care of bites and stings, you can chew on the leaves and apply them as a poultice to the affected area.
In the next article, we are going to look at a plant that comes with a high severity warning.
To a better, wiser, stronger YOU.
Note: I am an affiliate for the above offer and may get a commission on each sale.
Sources:
Basil. Located at Wikipedia (online), https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Basil [Accessed May 1, 2023] Note: article needs to be improved.
Sweet Basil – Ocimum basilicum. Located at Washington College (online), https://www.washcoll.edu/learn-by-doing/food/plants/lamiaceae/ocimum-basilicum.php [Accessed May 1, 2023]
Culinary Guide to Basil: Benefits and Uses. Located at MasterClass (online), https://www.masterclass.com/articles/culinary-guide-to-basil-benefits-and-uses [Accessed May 1, 2023]
This site contains affiliate links to products sold by selected self improvement partners. We may receive a commission for purchases made through these links.