All information provided in this article is the result of research using (but not limited to) the following books and guides: Herbs for Health and Healing, Rodale; Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Magical Herbs, Scott Cunningham; Magical Herbalism, Scott Cunningham; The Complete Guide to Natural Healing, International Masters Publishers; Earthway, Mary Summer Rain; and Teach Yourself Herbs, Susie White.
Once believed to possess magical powers, basil was considered by ancient peoples to be an elixir of love and a charm. Others, such as the Romans, recognized its healing properties and used it to aid digestion and counteract poisons. It also enjoyed a royal history having been buried with Egyptian kings in the great pyramids. While basil dates back to biblical times when it was seen growing around Christ's tomb, some cultures associated it with hatred and misfortune; others regarded it as a love token.
A medicinal herb as well as a sweet, pungent culinary seasoning, basil is one of the most familiar herbs because it is widely used in Italian cuisine, particularly in tomato-based dishes. But it also complements many other foods, including meat, poultry, salads, soups and pasta. This is fortunate because not only does basil enhance the flavor of foods, it also aids digestion. Indeed, this popular herb has a long history of medicinal use. In past centuries, the plant was accorded wide respect for its healing potential and was used to purify the mind, open the heart and even cure malaria. Today, herbalists recommend basil as an antispasmodic. It is therefore often used to treat intestinal problems, motion sickness, flatulence and nausea. It also relaxes bronchial spasms and is thus helpful for treating various respiratory illnesses.
Basil, Ocimum basilicum, is native to India, Africa and Asia, but after spice traders introduced the herb to Europe in the sixteenth century, its popularity took off; there are now more than 150 varieties grown around the world. Its common names include St. Josephwort, sweet basil and common basil. It is mildly sedative with antibacterial properties and can be used to relieve skin problems, to stimulate the immune system and the adrenal glands, and to prevent vomiting. In additions, fresh leaves can be crushed and rubbed on insect bites to reduce itching and swelling. In Ayurvedic medicine, basil juice is used for snakebites, chills, coughs, earaches and skin problems. What's more, even a tentative gardener (like me!) can grow this versatile herb.
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