Basil – King of all herbs a healthy and tasty herb for everyone

The basil herb is used universally in the kitchen and also for medicinal purposes. It is a great herb and one that everyone should consider using in their diet.

Let’s see why in more detail.

Basil or ocimum basilicum is a member of the mint family and is most likely native to India.

Herb is steeped in history and has a colorful cultural past.

The word basil comes from the Greek vassilios or king.

It received this name in Greek, supposedly because it was found growing next to the True Cross, which was discovered by the Byzantine Emperor Constantine and his mother, Queen Eleni.

Culturally, the basil plant has an interesting history.

The ancient Greeks considered it symbolically and represented poverty and hatred.

The ancient Greeks portrayed this as an old hag carrying a basil plant.

When they planted it, they cursed it and used obscene language because they believed it wouldn’t grow otherwise.

Ancient (and modern) Persians plant basil on graves, a custom that is also common in Malaysia.

Modern Egyptian women scatter basil flowers over tombs and tombs. In fact, the ancient Egyptians

he believed that basil given to the dying could open the gates of paradise for them.

Even today, in many places in Europe, basil is placed in the hands of the dead to ensure certain death.

In India, since ancient times, basil was placed in the mouth of the dying to ensure their fate.

it was for God.

The Romans, like the Greeks, abused basil when they planted it, thinking that it would grow better because of it. In modern Italy, basil is a symbol of love (heart-shaped leaves).

The Greek Orthodox Church (and others) use basil in the preparation of Holy Water, as it is believed to have been found in the Tomb of Christ at His resurrection.

Basil’s Medicinal History and Beliefs

Jews believe (an enduring belief) that eating basil gives strength to fasting.

Because European folk medicine gives basil many qualities.

It is used as a skin tonic, treatment for all kinds of colds, bronchitis and coughs.

It is used to treat gas attacks, flu, gout, muscle aches, rheumatism (and fibromyalgia), insect bites, and sinusitis.

An infusion of the green herb in boiling water is good for all obstructions of the internal organs, stops vomiting and nausea.

It is often used as an insect repellent.

In West Africa it is used to reduce fever and the Japanese use it as a cold remedy.

Since basil is both aromatic and carminative, it is used for mild nervous disorders and even for the relief of fibromyalgia. (wandering body pains).

The dried leaves, used as snuff, are said to cure nervous headaches.

Basil’s reputation in the kitchen as a fresh herb additive to soups, salads and sauces is unmatched. The French call it Royal Grass and use it in many of their most famous dishes.

Italians also use it in pasta sauces and other sauces, but basil found its greatest culinary glory in Genoa Pesto Sauce.

It is made exclusively with fresh basil leaves, olive oil, salt, two special cheeses and pine seeds.

The sauce is now a favorite around the world, known for its wonderful taste and good health qualities.

Basil is not only a good-for-you herb, it also tastes good, so be sure to include plenty of it in your diet.