Basil is considered an Indian spice and is used as a condiment in many cuisines around the world. Learn a lot about basil with these spicy herb facts.
- Basil came to Europe with the soldiers of Alexander the Great, who were returning from Asian campaigns and were carrying the fragrant seasoning with them.
- Basil is the main ingredient in the famous spicy Italian pesto sauce.
- Basil is better known as a seasoning for meat dishes, but few people know that it is used in the preparation of many alcoholic beverages.
- Basil is very popular in Central Asia, where it is called regan or reikhan, which means “fragrant.”
- As a plant, basil is demanding and difficult to care for. It is capricious in temperature, light conditions, requires moist, breathing soil. Some people manage to grow basil on the windowsill.
- Basil has bactericidal, antifungal and disinfectant properties. Tincture with basil bring down the temperature and use it as an antibiotic.
- Basil should not be consumed by pregnant women and young children due to the concentration of essential oils. It should also be avoided for diabetes, heart disease, and blood clotting disorders.
- Basil is useful for gastrointestinal diseases, whooping cough, neuroses, epilepsy and headache, intestinal colic, asthmatic attacks, colds and as a wound healing agent.
- Basil can kill more than 90 percent of the bacteria in our mouths that cause tooth decay and gum disease. It removes bad breath and strengthens the enamel of the teeth.
- Basil affects the processes of fat breakdown, soothes and tones the skin, makes it look healthier.
- Basil is able to increase and strengthen male potency.
- There are more than 40 aromas of basil, the most poignant are Genoese basil and Neapolitan basil.
- Indian scientists insist on the properties of basil to improve memory and stimulate brain activity. In India, basil is considered the second sacred plant – after the lotus.
- In ancient Egypt, basil was used for mummification due to its repellent properties.