Facts About The Basil Herb
Part of the mint family, this versatile herb has over 40 varieties and is easily grown.
It is an annual with a spicy fragrance often used in Italian cooking but is native to India and
Asia where it has been cultivated for over 5000 years.
The medicinal properties of the basil herb are many. It is well known as a remedy for digestive upsets
and basil tea is said to dispel flatulence. It is often used as a remedy for headaches and anxiety as it is
reputed to have calming properties. Herbalists have long been including it in remedies for constipation, vomiting and
cramps.
The basil herb is quite easy to grow and thrives in warm climates but can also be grown during the summer months
in colder climates or on a container on a sunny window sill. You can grow it from seed simply by sowing outdoors in a
garden but you must wait until any chance of frost has passed as this plant is quite sensitive to the cold.
Grow basil in a sunny location with well drained and fertilized soil. Keep the soil moist and rune a bit here and
there for bushy plants.
The basil herb plant can grow up to 2 ½ feet. The variety we are used to using in cooking has green leaves,
but other varieties can have purple or golden purple leaves. Flowers in white or lavender appear in summer.
It has a wonderful fragrance and even brushing against it can cause it to release a heady smell tinged with cinnamon,
lemon or anise depending on the variety of plant.
To harvest the basil herb, cut the any of the stems to just above the node.
Leave enough stems and leaves on the plant so it can continue to grow. Basil can be air dried, or dried in a dehydrator.
Use them same method as you would for drying herbs
of any other kind by hanging upside down in a dry and dark place for several weeks.
You can also preserve this herb by freezing it or putting it in oil.
Of Interest
Learn More About Herbs
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