Basil is one of the easiest of the herbs to grow. Most, but not all, basils are annuals, meaning they will complete their life cycle in one calendar year. Whether grown in a container or in the garden, the plant has a few basic requirements. Its container, or soil, must be well drained. It requires 6 to 8 hours of sun each day. For a container plant a South or West-facing window will usually suffice. A container plant will require periodic watering and fertilizing. My practice is to check for water needs with my finger. If the soil is dry to the depth of my finger the plant needs watering. This may be every other day (rare) or weekly (the norm). Plants grown in containers will require fertilizer. Apply a liquid organic all-purpose plant fertilizer at half strength ever 4 to 8 weeks.
When the plant has developed four sets of leaves on its stem(s) it should be pinched back. This involves pinching or cutting off the top two sets just above the third set. This will encourage the plant to develop new shoots and become bushier. Cut immediately above the leaf cluster. Cutting higher will leave a bare stalk that won't grow anything. Of course, the leaves removed become ingredients for your soups and salads. Once the pinching has begun you can probably harvest from the plant every two weeks. This practice benefits both you and the plant - you get the produce, the plant will be healthier and grow larger. Make sure you do not let the plant develop bloom stems. Once it flowers, it stops growing. If it develops seeds it will die as soon as they mature. So to keep the plant producing, pinch off the bloom buds as soon as they form Of course, once the temperature drops to levels between 40(F and 50(F the plant will die back. If you are raising your basil in a window container you may be able to keep it most of the year, but it will cease being productive with age.
Basil is a staple in most Mediterranean dishes. Generally when a recipe calls for basil it is referring to sweet basil such as Genovese or Italian large leafed. Other varieties considered as "sweet" basil include Red Rubin, Purple Ruffles, Fino Verde and Magical Michael, among others. Mrs. Burns and Sweet Dino are strongly Lemon flavored while Kivusambi is a lime flavored variety. The Thai Siam Queen is spicy while the Cinnamon basil, as its name implies, has a distinct aroma and flavor of cinnamon. We have attempted to include recipes for each of these flavors, but usually any basil can be included in any recipe. When using fresh basil in a recipe calling for dried basil it is best to increase the amount by a factor of three. Also, if at all possible, the fresh basil should not be included until the last 10 or so minutes of cooking, else a great deal of its flavor is lost
Unless you are one of the fortunate few with a South or West exposure fresh Basil will not be available to you after the first frost. Never fear. The summer harvest can be preserved for the winter's enjoyment. Freezing is the favored method. Rough chop the basil leaves (not the stem), place a drop of olive oil in a cell of an ice cube tray, place the basil in the oil, fill with water and freeze. Once frozen, remove the cubes to a freezer bag and place in the freezer. To use, simply thaw and proceed as you would with the fresh leaf. It will have darkened, but will have lost none of its flavor. Also, you can make Pesto (recipe included). Pesto can also be frozen, but you might wish to withhold the cheese until the Pesto is thawed.
And of course you can always dry it, but that will result in a loss of flavor.
Basil as a Medicine
The culinary qualities of basil are well known, but its medicinal qualities are not so well recognized. While each strain of basil contains a unique chemical make-up, the base medicinal properties remain the same from strain to strain. The primary compound in basil is BCP, a natural anti-inflammatory agent also found in oregano and cannabis; it may offer an alternative to medicinal marijuana, since it offers the same anti-inflammatory effects without the neurological side effects.
In traditional Ayurvedic medicine a variety of Indian basil (holy basil) has been used to treat diabetes, respiratory disorders, impotence, allergies and infertility. These medicinal uses may result from the cinnamanic acid contained in basil that is known to enhance circulation, stabilize blood sugar and improve respiration.
It also has strong antioxidant properties, especially in the form of an extract or oil. These natural antioxidants can prevent cell aging, some common skin ailments, and some believe, provide protection from most forms of cancer. Antioxidants are a part of any healthy diet and basil may be a safe and effective source for these compounds.
The volatile oils in basil also may make it a booster of the immune system. Both the leaves and oils have antibacterial properties. Application of the leaves topically to wounds may eliminate bacterial infections. Ingestion of the leaves as a culinary herb may aid the body in combating viral infections such as colds, flu and herpes.
A cup of basil tea after dinner aids in the digestive process. Some say the tea has a sedative, relaxing effect. Others claim the herb is effective treatment for cramps, vomiting, constipation, headaches and anxiety.
The claims for basil are endless. An application of basil lead juice and honey over the eyes twice a day treats fresh cases of cataract. (Not sure what that is.) Basil improves kidney function, is good for diabetes, improves the memory, and cures earache. The roots, mixed with ghee, can make you romantic, the tea prevents malaria and Dengue fevers, relieves cold, flu asthma and bronchitis , A mixture of basil leaves, roots and flowers acts as an anti-venom for snake bite. Rub the leaves on a wound to promote healing and relieve pain. Leaves under the pillow cures insomnia. A massage with the oil from basil can reduce the severity of paralysis. A powder of basil flower buds and juice can relieve migraine. And on and on. Its not often that something so good to eat is also good for you in so many ways.
Basil and Religion
Basil has been a part of the Hindu religion for over 3,000 years. It is believed to represent Vishnupriya, the embodiment of the goddess Lakshmi. An ancient myth concerning the goddess and basil relates that the god Vishnu came to Tulasi in the guise of her husband. Guil ridden, Tulasi took her own life. Vishnu said she would be revered by women due to her faithfulness and would help women avoid widowhood. The goddess gave her name to the plant and basil, or tulsi became a symbol of love, eternal life, purification and protection in India.
Known today as "the incomparable one", basil has become an important symbol in the Hindu religion. Today Tulsi can be found growing profusely around Hindu temples, where it is worshiped in the morning and evening. The Rig Veda, written in 1500 BC, mentions holy basil. The Puranas celebrate it fot its holiness. It is highly regarded in Ayurvedic's system of medicine and it is noted in medical texts writteN between 200 BC an 200 AD.