Basil

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Basil (Ocimum basilicum)

Basil (pronounced: /ˈbæzəl/), also known as sweet basil or Saint-Joseph's-wort, is a culinary herb of the family Lamiaceae (mints). The name "basil" comes from the Greek βασιλικόν φυτόν (basilikón phutón), meaning "royal/kingly plant".

Etymology

The word "basil" is derived from the Greek word "basilikón" which means "royal". This reflects the ancient culture's attitudes towards an herb that they held to be very noble and sacred. The Latin name of the plant, Ocimum basilicum, means "smell of a king".

Related Terms

  • Lamiaceae: The mint family, which includes many aromatic herbs.
  • Herb: A plant used for flavoring, food, medicine, or perfume.
  • Culinary herbs and spices: Herbs and spices used in cooking.
  • Ocimum: A genus of aromatic annual and perennial herbs and shrubs, including basil.

Uses

Basil is commonly used fresh in cooked recipes. It is also used in traditional medicine, particularly in Asia. In Ayurveda, the Indian traditional medicine, basil (Ocimum sanctum) is considered a tonic to retain youth and avoid aging. Basil, along with other varieties such as holy basil (Ocimum tenuiflorum), likely played a role in the traditional medicine systems of ancient India and China.

Cultivation

Basil is sensitive to cold, with best growth in hot, dry conditions. It behaves as an annual if there is any chance of a frost. In Northern Europe, Canada, the northern states of the U.S., and the South Island of New Zealand it will grow best if sown under glass in a peat pot, then planted out in late spring/early summer (when there is little chance of a frost).

External links

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