When I hear the word “Basil”, I’m overwhelmed by visions of classic Italian food – pesto, marinara, Caprese Salad. But there’s more to Basil than meets my love of Italian cuisine. Basil has been around a while and can be found in almost every corner of the globe. More than 5,000 years ago on the Indian subcontinent Tulsi Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum) played an important role in food, medicine, and religious and rituals. Medical texts from the same era showed basil was used in Ayurvedic medicine to treat warts, coughs, and more.
Ancient Egyptians treated scorpion stings with basil, while the Chinese used basil to treat stomach spasms and kidney ailments. In West Africa Basil teas were used to break fevers. English in the 16th century treated toothaches with basil.
THE SCIENCE OF BASIL
Ancient cultures may have used Basil, but only recently have investigators been unlocking the secrets of this amazing plant. Here are some amazing things scientists are learning about Basil – Queen of Herbs.
Basil and Fungus
While restoring an ancient Portuguese mural, artists hit a snag – black, furry fungus spots. Removing fungus from priceless art can be tricky business. If concentrations of chemical biocides are too weak, the fungus won’t die. On the other hand, the art is damaged if the chemical concentrations are too strong. The restorers tried a few anti-fungal solvents, then had an idea – try oil of Basil. It worked!! Essential oil of basil. Basil oil beat out two leading commercial biocides without marring the art.
Basil and Your Okra
Many vegetable gardeners faithfully plant Basil as a companion plant with their tomatoes as a natural pesticide. Researchers in Africa tested interplanting Basil with Okra as a pest control. The results yielded a 23% reduction in harmful pests when compared to Okra not planted with Basil.
Basil for Your Breath
Using extract of Basil leaves, researchers in Indonesia have created an edible film and are testing several formulations. Test groups are reporting a pleasant taste as well as and effective mouth freshener. Basil Breath Mints – Coming Soon.
Basil Seeds – Tiny Miracles
For many years, Basil greenery has been widely studied for health and medicinal benefits. Scientists have just recently begun to investigate Basil seeds and their health and healthcare potential. Results are nothing short of remarkable. A few of the beneficial properties of Basil Seeds include antioxidant; anti-asthmatic; anti-inflammatory; anti-arthritic; and anti-microbial. Many scientists believe we will soon see important medicines and treatments derived from the tiny Basil seed.
TYPES OF BASIL
Browse your favorite seed catalogue and the varieties of basil might surprise you. Plant experts can’t seem to agree on how many varieties of basil exists; some say 60-65 types exists; others say up to 150. Here are a few types of Basil that will do well in your garden.
Holy Basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum)
Also known as Tulsi, Holy Basil has been revered by Hindu cultures for centuries, and is used in cooking, Ayurvedic medicine, and religious ceremonies. Holy Basil is much loved for its spicy taste.
Genovese Basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Genovese’)
Genovese Basil is probably the most common Basil used in Western cooking (especially Pesto). This Basil is easy to grow, and does well in pots.
Sweet Basil (Ocimum basilicum)
Sweet Basil and Genovese Basil are often confused, but they are two distinct Basil varieties. The taste of Sweet Basil is said to have a hint of licorice.
Osmin Purple Basil (Ocimum basilicum ‘Osmin purple’)
There are many varieties of purple Basil. Osmin Purple is the most common. It’s raw leaves are commonly used to add color and a hint of clove to your favorite tossed salad
Lemon Basil (Ocimum basilicum citriodorum)
Lemon Basil is common in Thai cooking. It has a slight lemony flavor.
Plant some basil today and you’ll have the Taste of Italy at your fingertips. Plant some Basil tomorrow, and you may have a cornucopia of medicines just outside your back door.