Spices, basil, dried

Fun Facts

1. Basil has light green, silky leaves that are oval in shape. Leaves are oppositely arranged on the stem. Some varieties of basil have purple leaves.
2. Basil develops miniature flowers that appear in spikes on top of a plant. They can be white, pinkish or mauve in color.
3. Flowers are pollinated by insects. After successful pollination, each flower turns into dry fruit called achene.
4. Basil can be propagated via seed and plant cuttings.
5. Basil can be used fresh or in a dry form. It is especially important part of Italian cuisine. Most people use basil for dishes made of tomato, pesto, soups, salads and dishes made of chicken meat.
6. Even though basil is mostly used for the preparation of salty dishes, fresh leaves can be used as ingredient for the preparation of chocolate and ice-creams in some parts of the world.
7. Basil is used in folk medicine (usually in the form of tea) for treatment of constipation, flatulence, stomach cramps, anxiety, and depression.