Common Basil
General Info:
There
are multiple varieties of Basil in the world; some speculate that
there are up to 150 different types. This post will discuss what is
the most known, and used variety as of late, Common Basil. Common
Basil has also often gone by the names of Sweet Basil, St. Josephs
Wart, American Dittany, and the Witches Herb. Scientifically
however, it is known as Ocimum Basilicum.
Basil is most commonly thought to have originated in India. Though
there are some individuals who think it may have originated as far
east as China. From there it has continues to spread all over the
world.Identify:
When identifying plants in the wild, a person needs to take care, and should never use something they are not one hundred percent sure about. Common Basil is identified in several ways. The easiest way would be by scent. It has a very distinct scent; simply rubbing the leaf between two fingers is the best way to smell it, as this releases the oils. Please note though, dried basil and fresh basil do not smell the same. If a person is unfamiliar with basils scent, it can also be identifies using sight. Common Basil has smooth green leaves. The edges of the leaves are not jagged, and have so serrations. They are fat looking leaves that slightly curl underneath at the edges, and can be as wide as an inch and a half at the center when fully grown. The leaves are shaped almost like an oval, but come to a point near the stem at the bottom of the leaf. If allowed to bloom, without being pruned or cut back, small white flowers will bloom. Basil, like most herbs does not have bark, or wood on it. So if the plant has a wooden stem, do not use it. The veins on a Basil leaf are easily seen. They are a light green color.
Growing:
Basil is a fairly easy plant to grow. It can be found in countries all over the world. When planting however keep in mind basil is best grown in warm, dry climates. Therefore, full sun would be best. Basil can be kept in a pot indoors, but it will not flourish as well as an outdoor plant would. In cooler climates, like New England, where frost and snow are going to occur Basil should be treated as an annual. However, if grown in warmer climates, where frost stays away, it can be treated as a perennial that will reseed itself, year after year.
Medical:
Medically, Basil is fantastic, and can be used to treat a variety of health problems. If boiled with Cardamom, in two quarts of water, then mixed with sugar and milk it can be taken as a fever reducer. This method is especially effective for young children. Basil is a natural anti-inflammatory, so it can be taken to help reduce swelling in the body. Also, as it comes from the mint family, basil has digestive aids in it. It is often used, like mints to help with cramping, vomiting, and constipation. More often than not, Basil is put into liquid form, such as teas, to aid with the above mentioned ailments. However, it can also be finely ground and put into capsules for convenience. Just chewing the leaf itself is good for oral health. It can reduce halitosis, as well as cure the mouth of any infections. To treat infections of the mouth, chew a few leaves twice daily.
Food:
Basil is perhaps most famous for its use in the world of foods! Common basil is mainly used in Mediterranean dishes. Though there are certainly enough varieties of basil to use in almost any dish. Basil is best used fresh, though dried will certainly be acceptable. When working with fresh basil, you should always tear, as opposed to cutting because it releases the juices better and is more potent. When adding basil to hot dishes, such as sauces, and soups, Basil should be added at the very end for maximum potency. Adding a handful of fresh uncut basil leaves to any salad, or chopped tomatoes can never go wrong. They are a delight and add that little extra something to put the salad over the top. Fresh basil should only be kept in the fridge for a day or two, after that it loses its potency and is no good. However, to keep it fresh longer, it can be blanched and then stored in the freezer.
Magick:
Just as Basil has an abundance of use in the kitchen, and quite a few ways to help keep a person healthy, it has just as many ways to be used magickally. To start off with it is quite popular in love magick. It can be used to test fidelity, keep a person faithful, and to help end lovers quarrels. One common way basil is used for love magick, is by sprinkling a bit of crushed basil in the bed, to keep a lovers heart true. Basil is used in magick involving money and luck as well. Often time’s individuals will keep a bit of Basil in their pockets when they go out gambling. It is also put in the corners of businesses to help attract customers. And last, but not least, it is used often for protection. Sprinkling Basil around a home can help in keeping the home safe. It is best to remember when using basil in magick that it is a fire element. It falls under the planet of Mars, and is also male in gender. While these seem like small details, when it comes to spell crafting, they can be important.
In closing, Basil is an herb most should carry in their home. Be it for magick, cooking, or healing. Possibly even for all three.
