12. The B list- Herbs and Spices that Heal- BASIL

BASIL: The King of Herbs

Derived from the Greek term  "basileus", meaning Royal

 Found in Egyptian tombs that buried Kings  

Why not tag along on this royal Gulzaar Foods journey on the basil discovery route? 

Appearance and Description

• Green Leaves
• Belongs to the mint family 

There are various types of basil inclusive of:

• Lemon Basil
• Sweet Basil
• Curly or Italian Basil
• Thai basil, holy basil
• Lettuce-leaf basil.

Flavor

• Smell and flavor varies and is dependant on chemical components and essential oils contained. 
• Clove-like sweetness and pungent 

Uses

1. Mediterranean and Italian, Vietnamese, Indonesian and Thai cuisine. 
2. Dried basil, fresh basil or basil that is oil infused adds a dazzling basil flavor and benefit to healthy meals like: 

• Sautéed vegetables 
• Sauces 
• Flavor stews, 
• Fish and meat 
• Eggs 
• Pasta 
• Dressings 
• Herbal teas 
• Flavor liqueurs 
• Mixed drinks 

BASIL Health Benefits

• Antioxidants

• Anti-Inflammatory 

Essential oils present in basil include

1. Citronellol
2. Linalool 
3. Eugenol. 

These oils inhibit enzymes, the root of many diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and heart diseases.

• Fights Cancer 

• Antibacterial Properties

• Antimicrobial Properties 

• Combats Stress 

• Fights Depression 

• Cardiovascular Health 

• Liver Function and Body Detoxification 

• Alkalize and Digestion Improvements 

• Natural Aphrodisiac 

• Metabolic Syndrome and Diabetics prevention 

1.  J. Janick (ed.), James E. Simon, Mario R. Morales, Winthrop B. Phippen, Roberto Fontes Vieira, and Zhigang Hao (1999). "Basil: A Source of Aroma Compounds and a Popular Culinary and Ornamental Herb. In: Perspectives on new crops and new uses"
2.  Ambrose, Dawn C. P.; Manickavasagan, Annamalai; Naik, Ravindra (25 July 2016). Leafy Medicinal Herbs: Botany, Chemistry, Postharvest Technology and Uses. CABI. ISBN 9781780645599. Archived from the original on 21 April 2017.
3. Robin Nelson-Shellenbarger (25 February 2013). Family Herbal Wellness. Booktango. pp. 38–. ISBN 978-1-4689-2481-7. Archived from the original on 12 October 2013. Retrieved 2 August 2013.