Originating from the Greek work basileus, which roughly interprets to King, basil herbs were considered to be mailcious. Ancient stories went on to say that to get the herbs to actually start growing, some poor sucker had to scream & yell at them. Whilst that is clearly a porkie, you have to admit that basil herbs do have a 'strong perfume'.
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
Grown as perennials in a number of tropical areas, the basil plant is very sensitive to temperature although it's actually used as an annual in some temperate climates. It does however prefer hotter climates with plenty of sun and it actually grows better indoors that out as long as it gets plenty of natural light.
Basil needs a top quylaity soil that won't clog along with best compost or manure that's been around for a while. A steady flow of water and good drainage are mandatory requirements. Lack of natural light as well as positioning the plant in a drought will cause it to droop. It also requires mulching to keep the soil up to the job and the stems & flowers need to be removed when the plant starts to kick along.
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 Use of Basil
Although basil herbs do posses antviral & antibacterial benefits they're not generally used as a homeopathic extract, they are best known for their benefits to cooking. Part of the mint family they do actually aid digestive processes as well as brewing a pot of 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.
Just imagine the meals you could make with a fresh serving of real basil! - 31875
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
Grown as perennials in a number of tropical areas, the basil plant is very sensitive to temperature although it's actually used as an annual in some temperate climates. It does however prefer hotter climates with plenty of sun and it actually grows better indoors that out as long as it gets plenty of natural light.
Basil needs a top quylaity soil that won't clog along with best compost or manure that's been around for a while. A steady flow of water and good drainage are mandatory requirements. Lack of natural light as well as positioning the plant in a drought will cause it to droop. It also requires mulching to keep the soil up to the job and the stems & flowers need to be removed when the plant starts to kick along.
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 Use of Basil
Although basil herbs do posses antviral & antibacterial benefits they're not generally used as a homeopathic extract, they are best known for their benefits to cooking. Part of the mint family they do actually aid digestive processes as well as brewing a pot of 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.
Just imagine the meals you could make with a fresh serving of real basil! - 31875
About the Author:
Before you go rushing out to spend money on herbs... check out some more insights from herb guru Peter Williams about when to pick basil herbs check out What Herb is That?
