Herbs: Basil
"A smell of basil is good for the heart and head..."
-- John Gerard
Basil is one of the most widely-used herbs in the world. With so many varieties to choose from, it's no wonder. From pesto to spaghetti sauce to dessert treats, basil runs the gamut in the kitchen. Before we get to the recipes, let's take a look at...
A Little History
A member of the large mint family, basil is known botanically as Ocimum basilicum. It has long been used as an embalming and preserving herb, found in mummies of ancient Egypt. Perhaps because of its embalming usage, basil was also a symbol of mourning in Greece where it was known as basilikon phuton, meaning magnificent, royal or kingly herb.
Most likely basil is native to India, but there are some indications it may have originated even farther east. Ancient records from 907 A.D. indicate sweet basil in the Hunan region of China. It migrated westward as whole plants, since it could be grown easily indoors away from frost exposure. Basil is also known as St. Joseph's wort.
Today, basil is not only used as a food flavoring, but also in perfumery, incense and herbal holistic remedies.
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