» In praise of Basil

In Greek the herb basil is called βασιλικός – vasilikos – a word that also means royal or regal, and known as the king of herbs.

And so it is proving to be.

This humble little plant is turning out to be a real multi-tasker for us.

Food-wise it’s used to enhance the flavor of tomato and pasta dishes, and the leaves also make a nice addition to a salad. But even before the food gets to the table, basil has a role to play. It can be ‘companion planted’ to act as both a flavor enhancer to other plants and a natural insecticide.

It’s proving really effective as a natural remedy for insect bites: just rub with the leaf until the sap starts to run; it takes the itching and inflammation away. We also have pots around the doors and windows, again as an insect repellent. My herb book suggests it will also sooth snake bites – here’s hoping we never get to try this one out!

In Ayurvedic medicine basil is valued as a tonic, giving divine protection, spiritual healing and strengthening the immune system. As an essential oil it is used to lift fatigue, anxiety and depression, and also good for bronchitis, colds, fever, gout and indigestion. The Egyptians even used it in the embalming process.

And all this from a humble herb that you can buy in your local supermarket.

Many Greeks grow ‘standard’ basil plants as decorative additions to the garden. Here’s one we’re cultivating that is just coming into flower.

Not just good to look at, basil also has many culinary and medicinal uses