Basil belongs to the lamiaceae family and the term is derived from the Greek term basileus which means “king”.
Basil is supposed to be first found in the place where St. Constantine and Helen found the Holy Cross.
Basil is considered the “king of herbs” by many chefs and authors.
Basil is a soft low-growing herb that can thrive in hot, tropical weather.
Basil is considered to be native to India and other regions of Asia where it is said to have been produced for more than 5000 years. The height of the basil plant is between 30-130cm with light
green leaves of 3-11 cm long and 1-6cm broad. The plant has a strong, pungent smell and grows best in hot, dry conditions rather than cold terrain.
Basil can be cultivated in various ways. It can grow well in flower, vegetable and herb garden.
Basil also looks atractive in kitchen windowsill or in hanging baskets or in combination with
flowers. Basil looks highly attractive in containers with marigolds, zinnias, and nasturtiums.
Basil comes in several varieties. In Italy it is known as sweet basil which is commonly used in Italian food. Thai basil or holy basil is another variety used in Asia.
Basil is also widely used in cuisines of Southeast Asian countries, Vietnam, and Thailand. Basil is best used in fresh form and the aroma lasts for long if added at the end of the cooking. Fresh herb remains best if kept in plastic bags and then refrigerated. Basil if gets dried loses much of its flavor. Basil is one of the most important spices in Italian oil-herb sauce. Fresh or desiccated
basils are used by the Chinese in foods and soups. The Taiwanese add fresh leaves in their soups and have deep fried leaves with fried chicken. In India and other Asian countries basil seeds are used in desserts like sherbet and falooda.
Recent studies have shown that
basil has some strong health benefits as well. Research has shown that compounds present in basil oil have potent antioxidants which have antiaging, antiviral, anti cancer and anti-microbial properties. In India,
basil is also used as a supplementary treatment for asthma, stress and diabetes. Basil is also used in the traditional Indian medical system of Ayurveda. It is also used for treating asthma, diabetes and stress.
Basil has great cultural significance in various regions as well. Among Hindus, the Holy
Basil is highly revered and is known as tulsi. In Greek Orthodx Church basil is used for preparing holy water.
