Basil - the king of herbs, the all-purpose plant. Bursting with flavor, a staple of Mediterranean cuisine and a trusted cure for many ailments. Worshipped as a saint in India, venerated as guardian of the dead in ancient Egypt. Here, hidden deep inside its leaf cells, lies the key to its flavor and healing qualities. But to unlock basil's secrets, painstaking preparatory work is necessary, after which the scanning electron microscope gains access to the herb's green world.
Essential oils are the source of basil's unique flavor. Special glands produce the valuable substance, which is then stored in the cell tissue. These oils speed up healing processes and relieve stress. But basil's stardom is rooted not in its medicinal powers, but in something completely different. Endless supplies of lush green basil plants restock kitchens around the world.
There are about 60 known species of wild basil, but only three have achieved international success. The No. 1 is Genovese basil, which is cultivated all over the planet.
The fresh herb has a very distinct, intense flavor that comes out best in combination with tomatoes, mozzarella cheese and in salads. The delicate herb should be treated gently. It's better to pick and serve whole leaves than shred them. Dried or cooked, it loses valuable flavor. The Italian way of preserving it: the famous pesto verde, which will keep in the fridge for several weeks. The key to a quality pesto is first-grade, cold-pressed olive oil. It captures the flavor of the herb and makes it last.
As early as 1000 B.C., people in India knew the aroma of basil. From there, it found its way to Europe via Persia. It was in the monasteries of Central Europe that its full potential as a cure-all was discovered. In the Middle Ages, basil was first condemned as beguiling and inducing sinful behavior. But about 850 years ago, Benedictine abbess Hildegard von Bingen recommended basil tea as a relief for stomach ache. The essential oils of fresh basil act as an anti-inflammatory. Applied to the temples, the oil stimulates the circulation and even helps against migraine. The tea can stand for up to 10 minutes. If not drunk straight away, it should be covered. That way, the valuable oils can't escape.
Basil is a true sun-lover, no wonder its culinary rise began in southern climes. It loves the warmth and will only grow in the garden at temperatures above 12 degrees celcius. During the cold months, it needs a cozy place indoors, ideally right on the window sill. It will prosper in loose, well-watered soil. For best results cut only the tips of the shoots, that will suppress flower formation, leading to a bushier growth and lots of delicious leaves. Basil - a powerful herb that requires sensitive handling. It may even catch cold. When the leaves become flabby and pale, placing it in direct sunlight will restore its vigor. The wonderful scent of basil is a reward well worth the effort. According to legend, it was already cherished by Alexander the Great.
FAQs
The word basil, derived from the Greek word “basileus” or king, reflects how Christians labeled it as “The King of Herbs” instead of as the queen. Holy basil was offered in rituals, included in legends, and considered by many as a divine gift. Some Greek Orthodox churches even used it to create holy water.
What is the king of all herbs? ›
Basil - the king of herbs, the all-purpose plant. Bursting with flavor, a staple of Mediterranean cuisine and a trusted cure for many ailments. Worshipped as a saint in India, venerated as guardian of the dead in ancient Egypt. Here, hidden deep inside its leaf cells, lies the key to its flavor and healing qualities.
How many basil leaves can I eat daily? ›
The amount of basil leaves you can take daily depends on if you are eating it as a healthy addition to your food or as a medicine. For medicinal purposes, you can eat up to 1800mg of basil leaves daily and for daily use, you can consume up to 2000 mg of leaves daily.
What are the benefits of eating basil leaves everyday? ›
Basil leaves may be beneficial and may act against cancer, diabetes, bacterial growth, and arthritis. It may also manage stress, reduce swelling, boost the immune system, and enhance heart health.
What is special about basil? ›
The eugenol in basil can block calcium channels, which may help to lower blood pressure. Its essential oils can help lower your cholesterol and triglycerides. Basil also contains magnesium, which can help improve your blood flow by allowing your muscles and blood vessels to relax.
What did basil do in the Bible? ›
He argued strongly against various heresies of that day. In particular, he defended the vital biblical doctrine of the Trinity against the Arian Heresy which denied the deity of Christ, and later against the Sabellian (modalist) Heresy which denied the distinctness of the three Persons.
When should you not eat basil leaves? ›
Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Basil is LIKELY SAFE for pregnant and breast-feeding women in food amounts. But larger medicinal amounts are POSSIBLY UNSAFE. Basil contains a chemical, estragole, which has caused liver cancer in laboratory mice. Children: Basil is LIKELY SAFE for children in food amounts.
Is basil good for your liver? ›
Basil is a rich source of flavonoids, and the hepatoprotective effect of O. basilicum may be attributed to the antioxidant activity of its flavonoids [4], so the liver of rats from the group treated with aqueous basil extract showed normal liver.
Is raw basil good for you? ›
More than a pop of color for your latest culinary creation, basil leaves provide benefits that are almost endless. “Basil contains nutrients and compounds that can help stave off chronic diseases, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease and arthritis,” says registered dietitian Gillian Culbertson, RD, LD.
Can too much basil be bad? ›
In some people basil can cause low blood sugar. The above-ground parts of basil and basil oil are POSSIBLY UNSAFE when taken by mouth as a medicine, long-term. These contain estragole, a chemical that might increase the risk of getting liver cancer.
Supports Liver Function and Helps Detoxify the Body
Basil's strong detox properties may do wonders for your liver health. Liver is a very essential organ for the body as it plays a crucial role in metabolism. Basil may help prevent fat build-up in the liver and keep your liver healthy.
Is basil a Superfood? ›
In the diet, sweet basil can provide vitamins, minerals, and a range of antioxidants. Its essential oil may also have medicinal benefits. Sweet basil is available in many grocery stores, while other varieties have different tastes and fragrances.
Why is basil considered holy? ›
The term “holy basil” gets its name because of its sacred classification among those who belong to the Vaishnavite sect of Hinduism. Unlike traditional basil, which is often used in culinary cooking and has its own set of benefits, tulsi has a rich history as a core component in the medicinal practices of Ayurveda.
Why is basil addictive? ›
Anything that increases dopamine levels in the brain is considered “addictive”, and holy basil does just that. Typical basil does not offer the same effects. It also doesn't offer the same health benefits as holy basil does. And, holy basil is LOADED with healthy compounds.
Is basil a royal herb? ›
Basil gets its name from the Latin word “Basilicum” and from the Greek term “Basilikos”, both of which mean “royal”. It's certainly a fitting term, since this culinary herb demands royal treatment for its proper cultivation.
What does the basil symbolize? ›
Originally meaning “hate,” it later became embraced as a symbol of love. During the Victorian era Sweet Basil conveyed “good wishes” to the receiver. In Italy, a man who accepted basil from a woman was destined to marry her.
