Occult uses for BASIL

 BASIL 

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Other names : Ocimum basilicum, St. Josephswort, sweet basil.

 

    Habitat : Once native to India and Persia only, and still a sacred

              herb to the Hindus, basil is an annual plant much used

              now in Mediterranean cookery. It grows up to 2 feet in

              height, and its one drawback is that it must be raised

              from seed or seedling each year. It likes a rich moist

              soil with plenty of sun. You can buy various types of

              basil besides the "sweet" variety, the other most

              popular being "bush" basil. All posses the same

              properties, however.  The herb grows with a square stem

              in section; smooth, slightly toothed, oval leaves, which

              give off a strong clove fragrance when crushed; and

              white, pink or red whorls of flowers which nestle in the

              axils of the elaves (where the leaf joins the stem).

 

 Properties : Basil contains an aromatic and volitile camphor-bearing

              oil which gives it its marvelous clove-like fragrance

              and accounts for its use in cooking, potpourris and

              perfumery. A delicious tea can also be prepared from the

              leaves which is though to allay mild nervous tension

              headaches and nausea.

 

  Basil Tea : Infuse 1 teaspoon dried herb in 1 covered cup boiling

              water.  strain, and flavor with honey if desired. Upto 1

              or 2 cups a day may be taken.