Basil is the common name of Ocimum basilicum species, from Labiatae family.
Also known as: sweet basil, holy basil.
Basil leaves
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Features of Basil
Height to 12-24 inches. Spread to 6-15 inches. Zone 10. Annual.
hairy, ridged, square, upright stem.
black, small, tear-shaped seed.
clove-flavoured, ovate, scented leaf.
clustered, small, tubular, white flower in summer.
Growing Basil
Using Basil
Cosmetic
Bath
Add to a rejuvenating bath. (Use leaf, flower)
Perfume
Essential oil used in perfumes. (Use leaf)
Culinary
Fish and seafood
Add fresh leaves to fish and seafood dishes. (Use leaf)
Marinade
Use as a marinade for chicken and lamb. (Use leaf)
Sauce
Use in pasta and pesto sauces. (Use leaf)
Soup
Add fresh leaves to soups upon serving. It is an essential ingredient in Vietnamese Pho noodle soup. (Use leaf)
Vegetable
Combines well with tomatoes and eggplants. (Use leaf)
Household
Repellent
A pot of basil can repel flies.
Medicinal
Essential oil
Blend as massage oil to soothe tension and uplift moods. (Use leaf)
Essential oil
Use in aromatherapy. (Use leaf)
First-aid
Rub fresh leaves on insect bites. (Use leaf)
Medicine
Use to make cough syrups. (Use leaf)
Tea
A tea to aid digestion and ease flatulence. It may also relieve cold symptoms. (Use leaf)
Traditional Remedies
- Skin » insect bite
- Respiratory » cold and flu
- Digestive » indigestion, flatulence, stomach cramps
- Mood » fatigue, depression, tension, anxiety
Traditional remedies may or may not be supported by scientific evidences.
Cautions
- Please consult with your doctor before using basil for health related purposes.
Notes
Basil will lose its aroma quickly when cooked. Add basil at the end of cooking to retain its flavour.
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