Basil herbs is actually derived from a Greek word which means "King" (or basileus). Some origins of the word suggest that ancient Greeks and Romans associated the word and thus the herb as something malicious. Some myths concluded that one must yell and curse before any herb plants would grow from the seeds. While that was proven to be untrue, it's hard to deny that basil herbs are still a rather pungent spice, if not particularly angry.
In later years, Italian males gave their female 'targets' a handfull because it was considered a romantic thing to do. Generally considered a Mediterrean native plant also used in Thai & Italian gourmet dishes, basil actualy originated in India, yes India.
Growing Basil Plants
In some temperate regions, basil is often used as an annual and in tropical areas, it's sometimes grown as a perenial. Wherever it's growing, basil is quite sensitive to temperature and it grows better in warmer climates with lots of sunlight.
As far as soil goes, they prefer well drained soil along with good quality compost or well rotted manure. Basil requires a steady water supply to grow as well as adequate drainage. A lack of light as well as any sort of drought will quickly wilt the plant. In addition, gardeners will have to mulch just the right amount so as to maintain the soil, but not do so prematurely. When the plant starts to flourish it's time to cut the stems back and cut off the flowers.
And don't worry about cutting the flowers off, it's that very act that gives us basil, surely the most flavorsome herb available. Try tasting the leaves prior to flowering, that's when the flavor is the strongest.
The Many Uses of Basil
Basil herbs are not traditionally used as a homeopathic extract, its greatest resources are discovered in culinary use. However, basil does have certain antibacterial and antiviral properties. Basil is actually related to mint, and it has some value as a digestive aid, not to mention a smooth and comforting tea.
With more then 60 varieties of basil, they say that there are many more yet to be unearthed. The most common of the variety used in the kitchen is sweet basil although lemon basil is a common ingredient for some soups & sweets. The basil family includes many varieties including, cinnamon, African blue & Opal.
Some of the basil available at retail outlets has been out for the ground for a long period and has lost its oomph. The benefit of having your own herb garden is your basil will be super fresh & full of flavor.
The dishes you serve up to your family will have that 'X' factor if you use fresh basil!
In later years, Italian males gave their female 'targets' a handfull because it was considered a romantic thing to do. Generally considered a Mediterrean native plant also used in Thai & Italian gourmet dishes, basil actualy originated in India, yes India.
Growing Basil Plants
In some temperate regions, basil is often used as an annual and in tropical areas, it's sometimes grown as a perenial. Wherever it's growing, basil is quite sensitive to temperature and it grows better in warmer climates with lots of sunlight.
As far as soil goes, they prefer well drained soil along with good quality compost or well rotted manure. Basil requires a steady water supply to grow as well as adequate drainage. A lack of light as well as any sort of drought will quickly wilt the plant. In addition, gardeners will have to mulch just the right amount so as to maintain the soil, but not do so prematurely. When the plant starts to flourish it's time to cut the stems back and cut off the flowers.
And don't worry about cutting the flowers off, it's that very act that gives us basil, surely the most flavorsome herb available. Try tasting the leaves prior to flowering, that's when the flavor is the strongest.
The Many Uses of Basil
Basil herbs are not traditionally used as a homeopathic extract, its greatest resources are discovered in culinary use. However, basil does have certain antibacterial and antiviral properties. Basil is actually related to mint, and it has some value as a digestive aid, not to mention a smooth and comforting tea.
With more then 60 varieties of basil, they say that there are many more yet to be unearthed. The most common of the variety used in the kitchen is sweet basil although lemon basil is a common ingredient for some soups & sweets. The basil family includes many varieties including, cinnamon, African blue & Opal.
Some of the basil available at retail outlets has been out for the ground for a long period and has lost its oomph. The benefit of having your own herb garden is your basil will be super fresh & full of flavor.
The dishes you serve up to your family will have that 'X' factor if you use fresh basil!
About the Author:
Fanatical herb lover Peter Williams eats, sleeps & breathes herbs, if he doesn't know the answer, it aint worth knowing... to learn more about the secrets of basil herbs check out What Are The Healthiest Herbs?
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