Basil is a Great Herb
I have to admit I love basil. It sits on my kitchen
windowsill and I smile every time I see it. Why? For three reasons. First, the
leaves are full and fragrant. I just brush my hand gently across them and I can
smell the garden. Secondly, the taste reminds me of some of my favorite foods.
And thirdly, the plant is exuberant. It just begs to be part of my day whether
with sniffing or munching, but especially with cooking.
There are lots of legends wrapped around basil. It was once
associated with hatred in Greece, then later with love in Italy. It has been
revered for its health benefits and yet at one time it was associated with
snakes and scorpions. Modern understanding of herbs places basil high on the
list of healthful plants.
It’s a great herb to grow inside or outside. My windowsill
has been its home for quite a while. And I am an appreciative receiver of its
many benefits.
Basil legends and lore:
Want to grow your own basil?
And if you want to know about basil’s nutrients, health
benefits and studies read on: