Basil has been around for over 4,000 years. Throughout history, basil was believed to have almost magical powers. It was used as an antidote for snake bites, and was believed to give strength during religious fasting. It was found in mummies in Egypt because the ancient Egyptians used this herb for embalming.
When was basil first used in cooking?
Origins of Basil
There are some indications that basil may have originated even farther east than India with ancient records from 807 A.D. suggesting that sweet basil was used in the Hunan region of China at that time.
When was basil first used as a medicine?
Ancient records from 907 A.D. indicate sweet basil in the Hunan region of China where it was used medicinally. It migrated westward as whole plants, since it could be grown easily indoors away from frost exposure. Basil is also known as St. Joseph’s wort.
Where did basil first come from?
basil, (Ocimum basilicum), also called sweet basil, annual herb of the mint family (Lamiaceae), grown for its aromatic leaves. Basil is likely native to India and is widely grown as a kitchen herb.
What does basil mean in history?
The oldest origin of the word “basil,” according to the OED, is the ancient Greek basileus, meaning “king” (the same root as “basilica,” which originally referred to a royal doorway).
Who used basil first?
Some historians believe that basil originated in Africa. More than 4,000 years ago it was used by the Egyptians for embalming. And basil is referenced in some of the 700 herbal medicines listed in the Ebers Papyrus (c. 1550 B.C.).
Why is basil called holy?
Holy basil is native to the Indian subcontinent and grows throughout Southeast Asia. The plant is widely used in Ayurvedic and folk medicine, often as an herbal tea for a variety of ailments, and is considered sacred in Hinduism. It is also used as a culinary herb with a pungent flavour that intensifies with cooking.
Which disease is cured by basil?
The parts of the plant that grow above the ground are used to make medicine. Basil is used for stomach spasms, loss of appetite, intestinal gas, kidney conditions, fluid retention, head colds, warts, and worm infections. It is also used to treat snake and insect bites.
What does basil do for the brain?
Fenchol, a natural compound abundant in some plants including basil, can help protect the brain against Alzheimer’s disease pathology, a preclinical study suggests. The team discovered a sensing mechanism associated with the gut microbiome that explains how fenchol reduces neurotoxicity in the Alzheimer’s brain.
Is basil poisonous to humans?
When taken by mouth: Basil is LIKELY SAFE when consumed in food amounts. When taken by mouth as a medicine, basil is POSSIBLY UNSAFE. Basil herb and basil oil contain estragole. Estragole is a chemical that might increase the risk of getting liver cancer.
Is basil healthy to eat?
Basil contains many vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants such as lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin. Many of basil’s health benefits come from these antioxidants, as well as its essential oils.
Where is basil most commonly used?
This popular herb is used in a variety of Mediterranean and Asian dishes, ranging from creamy sauces to light, herbaceous salads and spicy curries. Ingredients that are complimented by the addition of basil include meats like chicken and beef, olive oil, eggs, tomatoes, and herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano.
Why is basil so popular in Italy?
Basil became an integral seasoning in Italian cuisine, and in fact Italians had such appreciation for this herb, that it became a symbol of love. It is said that if an Italian woman placed a sprig of basil on her balcony, it was a message to her beau that he could call that evening.
What does basil mean in the Bible?
Basil (name)
| Basil of Caesarea | |
| Pronunciation | /ˈbæzəl/ BAZ-əl, /ˈbɑːsəl/ BAH-səl |
| Origin | |
|---|---|
| Word/name | Greek, Arabic |
| Meaning | “royal, kingly, brave, valiant, chivalrous” in Greek; “brave, fearless, intrepid” in Arabic |
Why is basil important?
Basil is an excellent source of vitamin K and manganese; a very good source of copper, vitamin A (in the form of carotenoids such as beta-carotene), and vitamin C; and a good source of calcium, iron, folate, magnesium and omega-3 fatty acids making it quite nutrient rich!
Is basil a sacred herb?
Sacred basil is sacred in India and could well be sacred wherever it is grown. It has many medicinal qualities and makes a refreshing tea.
Why do you clap basil?
By giving the herbs a smack, you’re rupturing some of their cells and releasing their essential oils, thus upping the aroma. If you have some fresh mint or basil lying around, try a quick test to see for yourself. Give it a whiff, then smack it against your hand, and sniff it again.
What flavor does basil add?
Sweet basil has a fresh aroma with a subtle peppery flavor and a hint of mint. Other varieties taste of citrus and spice. Thai basil is more savory with a spicy licorice flavor.
What are some fun facts about basil?
Native to Africa and Southern India, basil is a sacred herb in the Hindu tradition and used in burial ceremonies in both India and Egypt. The name basil comes from the Greek work “basileus” or “king”. It is also attributed to the word “basilisk” a legendary dragon who could slay a person with just one glance.
Can basil leaves be eaten raw?
Yes, basil leaves can be consumed raw as long as they are well sanitized before consumption. You can consume them along with other salad leaves or with tomato and cheese, it is a good combination, it depends on your creativity and your taste.
Does basil leaves help in weight loss?
Consumption of Holy Basil or Tulsi leaves everyday will help rev up your metabolism. Thus, it also helps to burn a lot of calories at a faster pace. It converts the food into energy and enhances the nutrient absorption from food in body.