Basil Leaf (C/S) (OG) (OCIMUM BASILICUM)

Description:
Basil is an annual plant that is from the Labiateae (Lamiaceae) family. Sweet basil is the name for this common cooking basil and is the most common in culinary use. Dried sweet basil leaves are aromatic and fragrant, with a warm clove-like flavor and pungent undertones that account for its use in cooking, potpourris and perfumery.

Origin:
Egypt

Other Names:
Alabahaca, American Dittany, Common Basil, Kala Tulasi, Krishnamul, St. Josephwort, St. Joseph's Wort, Sweet Basil, Tulasi, Tulsi, Witches Herb

Part Used:
Leaf

Culinary Uses:
Basil is the traditional herb that is widely used in Italian cooking. Basil has a sweet, mildly minty and peppery flavor and can be used with vegetables, dressings and sauces, soups and stews, meats, beans, grains, and in herbal vinegars.
To make a tea, steep 1 teaspoon of dried Basil Leaf in 1 cup of boiling water for 3 - 5 minutes.

Medicinal Uses:
Basil is used to treat stomach cramps, vomiting, fevers, colds, flu, headaches, whooping cough, and menstrual pains. It is also used to reduce stomach acid, and is used as a digestive aid. Basil has a slight sedative action. Externally, it can be used for insect bites, to draw out the poisons.

Magickal Powers and Correspondences:
Powers: Love, protection, exorcism, wealth, and sympathy.
Planet Rulership: Mars
Element Rulership: Fire
Gender: Masculine
Sign: Scorpio

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