Ocimum Basilicum

Sweet Basil, Great Basil, Genovese

Botanical Family : Lamiaceae
Native to : Native to tropical Asia, India, and Africa
Researched by : Susan Bame

Cultivation

Folklore & Traditional Uses

Modern & Medicinal Uses

Recipes

References

Botanical Family:

Lamiaceae

This plant family consists over 200 genera including basil, mints, rosemary, sage, and lavender.

Cultivation:

Prefers full sun and well drained soil
Typically harvested from early summer to fall
Requires consistent watering, keeping soil moist but not soggy
Needs good air circulation
Regularly pinch back the tips to encourage bushier growth

Folklore & Traditional Uses:

Basil has a rich folklore, symbolizing both love and hate, protection and poison. In some cultures it is a symbol of love and fertility. In Italy, it was common for women to place basil on their windowsills to attract suitors. A gift of basil could signify deep affection, according to the HSA blog. In Greece, basil is still used in certain religious rituals to symbolize fertility. In Tudor England, hosts would give guests a pot of basil to wish them a safe journey.

Modern & Medicinal Uses:

Health benefits of sweet basil:
-Contains nutrients and compounds that may help prevent chronic diseases, including cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and arthritis.
-Has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory benefits
-May boost mental health
-When used medicinally, it can be purchased as essential oil, extract, or powder
-Good source of Vitamin K
-May help to manage blood pressures and cholesterol
-May improve blood sugar levels

Recipes:

Used in many Pasta sauces
Pesto ( fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, olive oil, lemon, Parmesan cheese)
Caprese salad ( fresh basil leaves, fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes)
Basil infused olive oil
Tomato basil soup

References:

Wikipedia, HSA blog, Cleveland Clinic