The generally used name of this herb in European languages comes from the Greek word basileus, meaning “belonging to the king”. It is rumored that only the king was allowed to gather this herb. I think that this name is appropriate as many chefs consider basil as ‘the king of herbs’. Purple basil is called “reyhan” in Turkish, a name that is thought to come from the Arabic word “al-raihan”.

Basil is indigenous to India and other tropical Asian countries. Like mint, it belongs to the labiate family of plants.

It is sacred for Vishnu, one of the main Indian gods, and represents his wife Lakshmi, which gives it an important religious meaning.

It was used in ancient civilizations and is said to be used today in voodoo rites in Haiti to boost fertility and passion.

According to a tradition existing since prehistorical times to the present in various civilizations, basil is placed around the body of the deceased to facilitate the passage from this life to the next.

Basil is a perfect source of vitamin K and is also rich in iron, calcium and Vitamin A.

Basil is at the center of Italian cuisine. The Capri salad and Pesto are only a couple of examples of their renowned dishes in which it is used in large quantities.

The taste and aroma of fresh basil cannot be compared to the dried herb. Carefully wash the leaves, dry and chop them. Mix with a small quantity of olive oil, fill in ice cube molds and freeze. You can melt 1 – 2 cubes to use as needed.

If you have a headache due to stress and cannot sleep well, place 1 teaspoon crushed basil, 1 teaspoon crushed mint and ½ teaspoon of linden blossoms in a container, pour 1 cup of boiling water over the mixture. Set aside for 5 – 8 minutes, then drain and drink the liquid.