Basil (Ocimum basilicum) ( Annual ) Element: Fire Magical Powers: Peace, Love, Protection, Wealth, Harmony, Flying, Divination. Culinary: Of course everyone knows the culinary value of Basil, Basil is widely used in dishes ranging from soups to pastas. Basil and tomatoes make an excellent combination as we know, but try other vegetables too! Veal, liver, kidneys, fish and poultry also goes well with basil. Use with cream cheese in sandwiches for a refreshing summer lunch. Medicinal: But did you know that up until the early 20th century basil was used to keep you from becoming inebriated while drinking. It is a wonderful medicinal treasure ranging from sharpening the mind, to ulcers, increasing sexual stamina, lowering stress, leveling out blood pressure and helping with sugar imbalances. Tea of basil can be drunk in cases of bladder, lung, kidney, heart and brain disease. It is known to relieve morning and car sickness and headaches. There is one kind of Basil" ( Holy Basil ) that is said to be prophylactic against prostatis, cancer, and leukemia, which are often caused by exposure to toxins and radiation." For tired, aching muscles or arthritis, mix 1-drop each of the following: Cajuput oil Sage oil Basil oil Add to 30 drops vegetable oil and use as a massage oil. Aromatic and carminative. Though generally employed in cooking as a flavouring, Basil has been occasionally used for mild nervous disorders and for the alleviation of wandering rheumatic pains- the dried leaves, in the form of snuff, are said to be a cure for nervous headaches. An infusion of the green herb in boiling water is good for all obstructions of the internal organs, arrests vomiting and allays nausea. The seeds have been reckoned efficacious against the poison of serpents, both taken internally and laid upon the wound. They are also said to cure warts. In common with other labiates, Basil, both the wild and the sweet, furnishes an aromatic, volatile, camphoraceous oil, and on this account is much employed in France for flavouring soups, especially turtle soup. They also use it in ragoûts and sauces. The leafy tops are a great improvement to salads and cups. Cosmetic: Basil oil is used as a tonic on the skin. Close page or Return to Herbal Index Return to Home . |
