Benefits of Basil, how to use and plant

Basil is a medicinal and aromatic plant also known as broad-leafed Basil, Alfavaca, Basilicão, Anfádega and Herba, much used to make homemade remedies for canker sores, cough and sore throat.

Its scientific name is Ocimum basilicum and can be bought in natural products stores, free markets and in some markets. Basil is a shrub that can reach 60 cm to 1 meter in height with numerous broad and very aromatic leaves, which are widely used in Italian cuisine. The plant has small flowers that can be lilac, white or red.

Benefits of basil

Basil is used to:

1. Helping in the treatment of cough, catarrh;
2. Wounds;
3. Stomach problems;
4. Lack of appetite;
5. Gases;
6. Canker sores;
7. Sore throat;
8. Hoarseness;
9. Tonsillitis;
10. Nausea;
11. Wart;
12. Constipation;
13. Colic;
14. Anxiety;
15. Insomnia;
16. Migraine and
17. Insect bites

Basil's properties include its antispasmodic, digestive, vermifuge, antibacterial, fungicidal, insecticidal, astringent, healing, febrile, stimulant, anti-emetic, anti-inflammatory and anti-inflammatory properties.

How to consume

The used parts of basil are its leaves and stems, for the seasoning of omelettes, meat stews, fish, chicken, salads, soups, fillings, as the main ingredient in typical Italian sauce as well as in sweets and liqueurs. The basil combines perfectly with dishes that carry tomatoes, olive oil, lemon, red meats, pasta and cheeses.

Basil pesto sauce:

Beat the ingredients in the blender:

• 1 bunch fresh basil
• 50g of almonds
• 50g parmesan
• 2 tablespoons of a good olive oil
• 1 ladle of hot water
• Salt and pepper to taste)
• Juice of half a lemon (or 1 whole, according to your preference)
• 1 clove garlic, crushed

Basil tea:

• Add 10 basil leaves in 1 cup boiling water. Let stand for 5 minutes, wait to brew, strain and drink the next.

Side effects and contraindications

The side effects of basil include allergic reactions, and it is contraindicated in high doses during pregnancy, in children under 12 years and in women in the lactation.

How to Plant Basil

Basil likes full sun, and prefers fertile soil, well drained and does not accumulate water, but needs regular watering. It can be planted in potted plants or well-fertilized soils and does not like cold and frost, nor excessive heat, although it likes the sun. It does not withstand many harvests, in need of frequent replanting.