Sweet Basil
Ocimum Basilicum
Common names: Common Basil, St. Josephwort
Name derived from the the French basile
Sweet basil is from the Labiate family, related to mint. A native of
India, it is regarded by the Hindu religion as a holy plant. Remains of
basil wreaths have been found in Egyptian tombs.
An aromatic herb in use all around the world, this perennnial can grow
to about 16 inches, with dark green leaves and white, mauve or purple variegated
flowers.
In Italian cooking it is combined with tomatoes and to make pesto, and
is frequently used in Thai cooking also. Europeans use basil to flavor
chicken, lamb and pork baked dishes, and for fish, salads, and gravy.
The herb has numerous medicinal uses - digestive disorders, sedatives,
and for promoting the production of breast milk in nursing mothers.
c Dropbears.com
See also:
Horseradish - Galangal
- Cilantro - Orris Root
- Radicchio - Angelica
- Garlic Chives - Sweet
Basil - Ginger
