Simply Basil: An Herb with Reputation - Propagation, Medicinal Uses, and Culinary Treats

Ocimum basilicum, more commonly referred to as basil, is one of my all time favorite herbs. I have discovered so many amazing things about this wonderful plant. Not only does it add subtle flavor to salads, soups, casseroles, and stews. Basil is a known fever reducer, and immune stimulant. It is also easy to grow so that anyone can have it readily available if necessary.

Propagation

Until recently, I managed to reduce my supply of home grown basil rather steadily. I seemed to always need it for one of my recipes. Consequently, I had an immediate need to replenish my stock. I enjoy harvesting my own seeds from my favorite plants. I simply allow the plants to bloom, wait for the flower to dry up, and then collect the seeds before they fall. This usually helps me keep an ample supply of whatever herb I need. Having recently discovered new uses for basil, I found that there were no flowers drying when I needed more of this amazing herb.

I thought about purchasing extra plants. This was the obvious solution, but not one I wanted to pursue. I'm one of those quirky individuals who enjoys to growing things from start to finish. I began to study my basil. I noticed its' smooth, broad, bubbly leaves. I looked closely at the stem and saw that it was round and porous. It seemed reasonable that I could take a clipping from my basil plant, immerse it in water, and let roots grow. I tried it, and it worked. Today I have more than enough basil. I let my parent plants seed the ground, while taking clipping to root in water at will.

Medicinal Uses

Basil has been used to ease discomfort of many illnesses. One of the most common uses throughout history is to help people reduce fevers. It stimulates the immune system, thus increasing perspiration, which helps decrease body temperature. While this is impressive, basil is also good for combating headaches and migraines. It has a relaxing effect, which helps promote a calming mood. This makes it easier for the body to decrease tension, thereby reducing pain. An extra benefit of basil is that it helps people who have gassy stomachs. Eating basil often creates chemical reactions which diminish gas in the system.

There are several ways to prepare basil medicinally. Naturally, you can simply eat it raw or in your favorite recipes. You can also brew it like tea, turn it into a poultice, or massage it directly into your skin. If you brew basil, you can either drink the tea, or inhale the steam. Sometimes it's fun to add other herbs like lavender or peppermint. This adds flavor, while offering benefits from their repertoire of healing accolades. Basil tea helps with coughs and asthma symptoms.

If you choose to make basil into a poultice or decide to massage it directly into your skin, I recommend that you add some olive oil to it. Olive oil is known for its natural healing properties. The combination of basil and olive oil is not only satisfactory, but relaxing, that is if you don't mind smelling a like an Italian Restaurant for a little while.

Recipes

One of my favorite recipes for basil is pesto. It is so easy to make, and large amounts can be stored for future use. I have also found that I can modify my recipe according to ingredients I have readily available.

Pesto (approximately 12 cubes)

5 or 6 large cloves garlic

2 big bunches of basil (washed and shaken dry)

3 to 4 Tablespoons of olive oil

¼ cup of pine nuts

Put the garlic, basil, and pine nuts in the food processor. Turn on the food processor to low, and slowly drizzle the olive oil in the top until a nice paste forms when all of the ingredients are blended together.

Put your pesto in ice cube trays in the freezer. Once it is frozen, store each cube in a sealed plastic bag until you are ready to use it.

I have substituted one bunch of parsley for one bunch of basil. I have also substituted walnuts and peanuts for the pine nuts. These substitutions have proved to be wonderful, adding new flavor to familiar dishes.

Basil Cream Sauce (serves 4 - 6)

¼ cube butter

3 to 4 leaves finely chopped basil (washed and dried)

Salt and pepper to taste

2 Tablespoons flour

1 cup whole milk

1 cup grated Monterey Jack Cheese

1 package cooked pasta

½ cup Parmesan Cheese

In a medium skillet, melt the butter on low heat. Add the basil, sprinkling with salt and pepper, until the basil wilts. Stir in the flour to make a thick paste. Allow the flour to cook on low for a few minutes. Pour in the milk, stirring constantly. Increase the temperature to medium. When the milk begins to thicken, include the Monterey Jack Cheese, continuing to stir until the sauce is smooth and blended. Pour the sauce over pasta and sprinkle with Parmesan Cheese.

This simple recipe has become more popular than macaroni and cheese in my home. It is just as easy to make, and has more nutrition.

Basil lovers around the world delight in the beauty of this simple herb. It not only tastes great, but also has proven medicinal value. It can be used in a multitude of recipes, and eases discomfort of many small health issues. Basil looks beautiful in gardens or rooting in a window sill. It has earned its reputation for belonging in every garden and kitchen. I know it has a special place in mine.

References

Fleming, Susan, Herbs: A Connoisseur's Guide, Crescent Books, New York, 1990
Editors of Sunset Books and Sunset Magazine, Sunset Publishing Corp, Menlo Park, California, 1998