Basil
Ocimum basilicum
History: Basil is actually a native herb of India, which seems odd because generally it is not used in Indian cuisine. It is now cultivated all over the world including France, Egypt, Italy, Greece, and many gardens in the US. The French call basil herbe royale. Italians still associate it with being a sign of love. It is said that the name is a derivative of basileus Greek for King.

For Magick: Basil has been used in a variety of spells symbolizing such differing feeling as love and in some cultures hatred. (I prefer to use it for love, as I have no use for a hatred spell!). It has also been called Basil the Courageous and used aginst faintness of heart. Adding fresh basil to bouquets is one of my favorite ways to bring its uplifting influence into my world. It can also be dried or purchased dry for use in a wide variety of spells. To makequick-dried basil for a spell, I lay some leaves on a paper towel in the microwave and go for about 10 seconds at a time until they are dry.

For Health: One of the very best healing uses for basil is to rub the leaves on insect bites to relieve itching and inflammation. Since basil is in the mint family it is not surprising that a tea from the leaves is said to be a wonderful afterdinner aid to indigestion. The essential oil of basil is used for nervous exhaustion, mental fatigue and melancholy. A few drops in the bath will make all the difference!

For Dinner: The most common use for basil is in the kitchen. Tomato sauce and pesto have made basil famous. But it can add its mildly peppery flavor with traces of mint and clove to just about anything. Fresh is the best but frozen and dried are also great. Throw them in salads, add them to mild vegetables, or try basil vinegars to name just a few ways to try this versatile herb. Fresh basil is best stored in oil. One of my favorites is to blend some basil with garlic and olive oil, freeze it in ice cube tray, store cubes in zip-lock bags, and you magically have pesto to add to any soup, stew or sauce your little heart desires!

So if you haven't already found the wonderful qualities of this versatile herb, give it a try! Or find a new use or recipe for it...I'm sure it won't disappoint!

Karin Marie