Basil (Ocimum basilicum): origin, properties and uses

Who discovered basil?

The Egyptians discovered that basil was a bactericidal herb that could be used to preserve food... and the dead.

Where does basil grow naturally?

Basil is native to South Asia and Central Africa.

Where does basil come from?

Basil originated in South East Asia. Today, however, this sun-loving herb is grown mainly in the Mediterranean region, especially in France and Italy, but also in Central Europe.

Who was the first wizard or witch to create the basilisk?

The first recorded Basilisk was raised by Herpo the Infamous, a Greek sorcerer who is a master of black magic and speaks the Forklang language. After a series of experiments, he discovers that a giant snake with extremely dangerous powers was born from a hen's egg incubated by a toad.

How to use basil essential oil?

Use of the essential oil of green basil

• For the digestive system: 1 drop in 4 drops of vegetable oil, massaged on the stomach after each meal.
• For fatigue and lack of concentration: 1 drop in 4 drops of vegetable oil, gently massage the stomach.

Which essential oils for which ailments?

4 essential oils to relieve pain

• Eucalyptus Citronellal EO Rich in citronellal, eucalyptus essential oil is often used to repel biting insects.
• EO of peppermint. ...
• Clove EO. ...
• Wintergreen EO.

What is this basil?

A powerful sedative, tropical basil essential oil is traditionally used for stress, tension and nervous spasms. Tropical basil essential oil also relieves intestinal discomfort.

How to make a basil infusion?

• Bring the water to the boil and throw in the coarsely chopped basil.
• Let the infusion cool.
• Filter by pressing well.
• Weigh the resulting liquid and add the same amount of sugar.
• Heat over low heat, stirring regularly, until completely dissolved.

How to drink basil?

For infusions, it is recommended to boil 3 to 5 grams of basil per cup and to drink one cup after each meal. As a decoction, it is recommended to use 100 grams per litre of basil as a gargle or to chew raw basil leaves.

What are the benefits of basil in tea?

Medicinal properties of basil Digestive tonic, treats flatulence, indigestion or heartburn. It has antipyretic and stimulating effects, reduces fever, febrile states and fatigue. It has antispasmodic effects, relieves nausea, vomiting, gastrointestinal and stomach cramps.

How to use basil flowers?

You can also add salt and butter to make them spicier. Make an original aperitif by dipping the flowers in a bottle of white wine and adding 4 to 5 tablespoons of sugar. Close the bottle. Leave to macerate for 2 to 3 months.

How do I prune basil so that it grows back?

Use small scissors to easily cut the stems without damaging them. Harvest the basil when the plant begins to flower to encourage regrowth. To cut whole basil stems, aim just above the node at the nearest point (about 1 cm maximum).

How are basil leaves harvested?

1 Select basil leaves or stems if you need them. When the plant is still young but already has a clump, pick some of the more developed leaves from several stems, cutting the petiole (stem) with your fingernail.

Does the basil grow back every year?

inside. Basil grows easily and quickly from seed. Just buy a bag of seeds and some potting soil, and you have everything you need to grow basil that will last all winter, or even all year.

How to grow back basil?

For basil to grow well (and more importantly, to grow back), you have to prune it from time to time. And not in just any way. To prune basil properly, cut the stems (without removing the leaves) between two nodes, leaving at least ten centimetres of stem.

Basil is an aromatic plant with medicinal properties that have been recognized for centuries. It is rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C and minerals such as iron and calcium. Basil has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral properties. It can help relieve stomach aches, nausea and migraines. In infusion or as an essential oil, it can also be used to calm anxiety and promote digestion. In short, basil is a plant that is beneficial to health and deserves its place in our daily diet.