Basil

Ocimum basilicum 

Herbaceous annual  

Zones 4-9 

Basil is an herb from the Lamiaceae, or mint family. It is praised for its incredibly fragrant leaves and used in Italian and Thai cuisines. This plant is native to tropical regions of Africa and Asia. There are so many varieties of basil. It is used fresh or dried to flavor dishes. Basil is more commonly known for its flavor and aroma in culinary dishes. It is a plant with oval-shaped leaves. Some varieties of basil have burgundy and purple leaves. 

Medicinal properties 

Basil is full of minerals, vitamins and antioxidants and even offers various health benefits. It contains eugenol, linalool, and citronellol which helps reduce inflammation with its anti-inflammatory properties. It can help heart health by helping lower blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels and it may even reduce cholesterol and triglycerides. Basil is helpful with digestive health. Compounds such as eugenol can soothe gastrointestinal discomfort. It is known to aid in better nutrient absorption and can even help reduce bloating. Basil is a gold mine of antioxidants and nutrients like iron and vitamin C. Vitamin C and Iron help boost our immune functions and help to protect against cell damage. Compounds in basil such as linalool have calming effects that help improve mental clarity, memory and can help reduce stress. The antimicrobial properties in the essential oils have helped fight bacteria, viruses, and molds. 

Cultivation, Harvesting, and Storage 

Basil is a sun-loving plant. So, it grows best in the warm weather during summer. It requires regular watering and well-draining soil. It can grow from seed or by cuttings from existing plants. Is sensitive to cold and frost, is an effective natural repellent in the garden for a range of garden pests and flying insects. This plant gives off a smell that deters mosquitoes, houseflies, carrot flies, white-flies, asparagus beetles, cabbageworms, and hornworms. It enhances flavor and attracts pollinators to the garden. It grows best with peppers, tomatoes and herbs such as oregano and parsley.  

The best time to harvest is right before it flowers. Harvesting the leaves by pinching off leaves. It will encourage the plant to get bushier. Clip off flower tops as they grow to continue leaf growth on the plant. Hang upside down in bunches or lay flat on drying racks. When dried it loses some of its flavor. Keep out of direct sunlight. To maintain its flavor chop basil up and freeze. Freeze them in ice trays and then drop a cube into whatever you are cooking. You can also be can it into a sauce for later use. 

Warnings: Talk to your doctor before using basil supplements, especially if you have a bleeding disorder, low blood pressure, are taking blood thinner or diabetes medication, or scheduled for surgery.