Basil herbs is actually derived from a Greek word which means “King” (or basileus). Some origins of the word suggest that ancient Greeks and Romans associated the word and thus the herb as something malicious. Some myths concluded that one must yell and curse before any herb plants would grow from the seeds. While that was proven to be untrue, it’s hard to deny that basil herbs are still a rather pungent spice, if not particularly angry.
In later times, basil came to represent love, and men in Italy would give women a sprig of basil as a romantic gesture. When it comes to cuisine, basil is usually identified with Mediterranean food, along with Italian and Thai specialties. However, did you know that this herb actually came from India? Yes, it was Vishnu and Krishna’s own personal choice.
Getting Your Basil to Grow
In some temperate regions, basil is often used as an annual and in tropical areas, it’s sometimes grown as a perenial. Wherever it’s growing, basil is quite sensitive to temperature and it grows better in warmer climates with lots of sunlight.
As far as soil goes, they prefer well drained soil along with good quality compost or well rotted manure. Basil requires a steady water supply to grow as well as adequate drainage. A lack of light as well as any sort of drought will quickly wilt the plant. In addition, gardeners will have to mulch just the right amount so as to maintain the soil, but not do so prematurely. When the plant starts to flourish it’s time to cut the stems back and cut off the flowers.
It’s not a shame, for the destruction of this pretty flower is what brings you basil, one of the tastiest herbs you can get a hold of. Gardeners should pick up the basil leaves before the plant starts flowering to experience the best flavor.
The Use of Basil
famous worldwide for their contribution to the kitchen, basil herbs do have healing properties but are not generally used in homeopathic remedies. A cousin of mint, it can be beneficial for digesting food and can be used to make tea.
There are actually 60 known species of basil and many more we haven’t discovered yet. Sweet basil is one of the most commonly used herbs for chefs, though lemon basil is just as popular for certain soups, beverages and deserts. Other notable types of basil include cinnamon, African blue (mainly used for aroma) and Opal basil.
Some of the basil available at retail outlets has been out for the ground for a long period and has lost its oomph. The benefit of having your own herb garden is your basil will be super fresh & full of flavor.
With fresh basil in your kitchen, your cooking will take on a new dimension!
Before you go rushing out to spend money on herbs… check out some more insights from herb guru Peter Williams about the secrets of basil herbs check out What Are The Healthiest Herbs? You can get a unique content version of this article from the Uber Article Directory.
categories: herbs,cooking,food,eating,culinary,recipe,healthy food,herb gardening,health fitness,basil,growing herbs,gardening,indoor gardening
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