Basil Plant 'Sweet Genovese'

Known as the King of herbs, Basil is popular in many cuisines, although it is best known as a Mediterranean herb.

Used either fresh or dried, its warm 'spicy' aroma adds piquancy to any dish. The bright green leaves and stems can be used in anything from salads to pasta dishes, infused in oil, or made into that Italian favourite, pesto. Dried, its flavour becomes slightly more mellow and is perfect for winter soups and stews.

A member of the mint family.

• Tender annual.
• Likes a sunny position. Basil loves both heat and sun.
• Prefers well-drained, moist soil.
• Reaches 24" (60 cm) in height.
• Flowers are white and appear June to September.
• Pick leaves when young.

• Top Tips
• Basil can become quite leggy and straggly; prune out shoots to keep the plants at around 8" (20 cm) tall.
• Do not allow to flower if using for cooking.

• Culinary Uses
• Sprinkle over salads or chopped tomatoes.
• Works well with garlic and aubergines.
• Used to make Pesto.
• Good for flavouring vinegar.
• If cooking with fresh Basil, it is better torn rather than chopped. Always add to hot dishes at the last minute (it has more flavour and it won't burn); if using dried add it at the beginning.
• To dry Basil, cut whole stems and hang to dry in a warm place before rubbing between your hands to flake the leaves, then store in an airtight jar.

• Medicinal Uses
• Crushed fresh leaves can be held against mouth ulcers, or rubbed on warts, acne or insect bites to help speed up healing.
• Made into a tea Basil is said to relieve constipation, stomach problems and flatulence.
• Steeped in hot water to create a steam inhalant it is said to relieve headaches, colds and fever.
• Infused into massage oil it is recognised as an anti-spasmodic and anti-inflammatory so perfect for aches and pains!
• Good for helping mental fatigue and can calm you when you are tense or anxious.
• Can help improve your memory.

• Other Uses
• Good for deterring flies, aphids and white fly.

Disclaimer
As with all alternative medicines and plants with purported medicinal benefits it is important to inform your health care providers that you are using them; this helps to ensure safe and coordinated care. We can accept no liability for any side effect or contingency from any allergy or any other cause or harm that may arise. If in doubt please do consult a medical practitioner before using.
Do not use if pregnant.