An Easy Recipe

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'.

A bit further down the track, basil herbs represented of all things, love. The Italian stallions in Italy used to hand the girls a small bunch of basil to indicate their interest. In the food arena basil is mainly associated with Mediterranean style food as well as Italian & Thai dishes. But... what would you say if I told you this herb came from India, I thought so, gob smacked? Yep, Vishnu & Krishna ate it at every opportunity.

Rearing Healthy Basil

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.

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.

Removing the flowers is something that has to happen, that's what gives basil to the world. If yiou get the opportunity, try the flavor of basil leaves just before the plant flowers.

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.

There are actually 60 known species of basil and many more we haven't discovered yet. Sweet basil is one of the most commonly used herbs for chefs, though lemon basil is just as popular for certain soups, beverages and deserts. Other notable types of basil include cinnamon, African blue (mainly used for aroma) and Opal basil.

Growing your own basil herbs gives you a rare opportunity: you can use it as seasoning when the herbs are extra fresh and straight off the leaves of the plant. Basil you find at the common store has been sitting in a container for days or even weeks and is not anywhere near the same quality.

Just imagine the meals you could make with a fresh serving of real basil!

Herb loving maniac & all round good guy Peter Williams, lives for herbs alone... so for more great information about basil herbs check out www.WhatAreHerbs.com