Spice : Basil

Latin Name: Ocimum basilicum

Alternate Names: Sweet Basil, Garden Basil, Tulsi (Ayurvedic), Lui Le (Chinese), Tulsi (Sanskrit And Hindi)

Family: LAMIACEAE

Parts Used: Above ground portion.

Properties: Antibacterial, Antidepressant, Antiseptic, Antispasmodic, Carminative, Circulatory Stimulant, Diaphoretic, Digestive Tonic, Expectorant, Febrifuge, Galactagogue, Immune Stimulant, Nervine, Parturient, Sedative.

Internal Uses: Alcoholism, Anxiety, Bronchitis, Colds, Cough, Depression, Drug Overdose, Drug Withdrawal, Exhaustion, Fever, Flatulence, Headache, Marijuana Overdose, Mental Fogginess, Nausea, Placenta Delivery, Rheumatism, Sinus Congestion, Stomachache, Vomiting

Internal Applications: Tea, Tincture, Capsules.

Topical Uses: Acne, Eye Fatigue, Fatigue, Fungal Infection, Insect Bites, Insect Repellent, Muscle Soreness, Ringworm, Thrush

Topical Applications: Poultice or salve for insect bites, acne and ringworm. Gargle or mouthwash for thrush. Bath herb for energy. Eyewash for tired eyes. Smell essential oil to gain a second wind when fatigued. Essential oil added to massage oils for sore muscles. Burn dried herb as an antiseptic incense. Having a pot of Basil on the table helps to repel flies and mosquitoes. Juice is applied to fungal infections.

Culinary uses: Dips, dressings, eggs, fish, meats, salads, tomato sauces, pesto, Soupe au Pistou. Chartreuse.

Energetics: Pungent, Warm, Dry.

Chemical Constituents: Essential oil (estragol, eugenol, lineol, linalol), caffeic acid, tannins, beta carotene, vitamin C.

Contraindications: Pregnant women should avoid therapeutic doses.

Comments: The name originates from the Greek, basilikon phuton, meaning 'kingly or royal herb.' In India, Basil was held in such high esteem that it was used in courts to swear upon, and next to the Lotus it was considered one of the most sacred plants. Was used as an embalming herb in Ancient Egypt. In some parts of Mexico, Basil is carried in one's pocket to attract money and keep a lover faithful.