What Is the Herb Basil?

Characteristics

• Basil is a low-growing, annual herb with bright green, rounded leaves that have serrated edges and smooth, shiny surfaces. When eaten, basil has a sweet, pungent smell and taste. When the basil plant flowers, its blossoms are white.

History

• Native to the tropical regions of Asia, basil has been used for thousands of years. In Hindu culture, basil has an important religious significance: it is used in temples as a symbol of the goddess Lakshmi. Likewise, in Greek Orthodox Christianity, basil is believed to have sprung up in the place where the Holy Cross was founded. To this day, it is used in the preparation of holy water.

Cultivation

• Basil grows best in warmer climates and acts as a perennial plant, whereas in colder climates it needs to be replanted annually. Springtime is best for planting basil, which, when grown alongside other vegetables, can add to their flavor. Plants should be kept out of the wind due to their fragile composition.

Uses

• A common culinary ingredient, garnish, herb, or spice, basil is used extensively in many cuisines. In Italian cooking, for instance, it is combined with pine nuts and parmesan to create pesto sauce. Its leaves are often used in salads and soups. Basil is also used in Thai, Indian, and Vietnamese cooking as well, and is an essential ingredient in many curries and stir-fried dishes. It is usually added as a garnish or last ingredient, because its flavor diminishes when cooked.

Nutrition

• Basil is a very good source of vitamin A, iron, calcium, magnesium and vitamin C. It also contains eugenol, a component of basil's essential oils, which has strong anti-inflammatory properties.