Basil Culinary Herb Tea. Ocimum basilicum, Plant Family: Lamiaceae. Other Names: Common Basil, Sweet Basil, Saint Joseph’s Wort. One of the oldest herbs known to the mankind, basil’s healing and healthful properties have been the most treasured knowledge across the world. Closer to home, basil is revered for its strong medicinal and healing properties. Basil is a highly aromatic, annual bushy herb native to Southern Asia, now grown in many temperate countries around the world. It grows to a height of 30-60 cm dependent on the variety and has square stems, and oval, toothed, glossy leaves, which are dark green in colour. Although some varieties such as Purple Ruffles can have a wavy edge and reddish-purple colouring. The small, two-lipped flowers present in whorls and are white to pale lilac in colour. Basil contains vitamins A & C and is rich in calcium and iron. Most often associated with Italian food and in particular pesto, basil has many other culinary uses, it partners well with tomatoes in all forms, add dried basil to stuffing’s, salad dressings, soups, stews, casseroles, sprinkle on pizza, pasta, omelettes and cheese dishes. Basil can also be used in sweet recipes for biscuits and cakes. In the bath it is refreshing and stimulating, and good for oily skin. It is included in a bath soak for problem skin. It has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that help with a wide range of skin problems including acne.The leaves can be added to a mixed flower, herb and spice potpourri, and to a mixed herb bag that will bring the freshness of the outdoors indoors.
The scientific name of the basil commonly purchased for cooking is Ocimum basilicum (abbreviated O. basilicum). It has a licorice-clove flavor. Because basil is generally used in small quantities, the only substantial nutrient it provides is vitamin K. Basil also supplies plant compounds, which contribute aroma, flavor and health benefits. Basil is not only a popular folk remedy for ailments like nausea and bug bites but also widely utilized in traditional Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic medicine and other holistic medicine systems. Some studies in people suggest benefits for blood sugar and stress, though more research is necessary. The leaves of the fragrant basil herb have been used to
- soothe nerves and sharpen memory
- ease fever
- calm coughs
- and relieve sore throat
- It is full of flavonoids, which help protect human cells from damage
- Orientin and vicenin are both plentiful in the popular basil, and both help protect chromosomes and cells from the damage caused by oxygen and radiation
- Also rich in nutrients, it has plenty of the anti-oxidant vitamin A, magnesium, iron, calcium, potassium, and vitamin C. These all help the human body regulate cholesterol levels and relax blood vessels
- It is packed with eugenol, which has a strong anti-inflammatory effect. This explains why it has been used in many cultures to ease the pain of inflammatory conditions, such as arthritis
Basil complements other herbs and spices such as garlic, marjoram, mustard, oregano, paprika, parsley, pepper, rosemary and sage.
Basil is generally safe when consumed in small amounts, but a few precautions are warranted. Basil leaves are high in vitamin K, which helps blood clot. High intakes could interfere with blood-thinning drugs, such as warfarin. Always thoroughly research any new herb you are considering using, and if taking prescribed drugs, have a chat with your GP first.
Making homemade basil tea is a super easy and handy way to get more of this herb into your diet. With its host of health benefits and one the most popular and used ingredients in the world, this is definitely something we all should enjoy more. Making your own is very quick and simple to do, and in just minutes you’ll be enjoying a super healthy herbal tea with all the vitality and well-being uses that come along with it! Add a tablespoon of dried basil leaves (or a handful of fresh) and 2 teaspoons of green tea to a tea infuser of cafetiere. Pour on 2 cups of water that has just come to the boil. Stir and steep for 5-7 minutes. Then strain and add a teaspoon of honey and a slice of lemon if liked.