Basil is one of my favorite cooking herbs. I love to include fresh basil on a pizza or pasta sauce. The smell of basil is unique and always makes me feel refreshed.
Culinary Uses:
Basil is most commonly used in cooking. It is most well-known in Italian dishes, though certain types are also used in Asian dishes.
Best combined with garlic, tomatoes and eggplant.
The Italian sauce, Pesto's main ingredient is Basil along with olive oil, garlic and pine nuts.
Medical Uses:
When digested relieves gas and stomach pains.
Teas (steep 2 teaspoons per cup of water for 20 mins) often used for
- cold and flu
- constipation
- vomiting
- headaches
- menstrual cramps
Spiritual Uses:
Inhaling the essential oil refreshes the mind and stimulates senses.
Rids negativity from the home.
- can burn to release aroma
- add to bath for release and protection
- sprinkle in corners of rooms
Basil also
- Mends Lover's quarrels
- brings good luck to a new home
- creates sympathy between two people
- used to avoid major clashes
- brings a scent of happiness to home
- protect you in crowds
Sources:
1-
Wikipedia: Basil
2-
Joelle's Sacred Grove