Photo and description of species and varieties of many-sided basil. Fragrant basil - a fragrance worthy of kings

Not everyone is familiar with such a spice as basil. Therefore, it is interesting to know what basil is. The sonorous name of the herb is fascinating, associated with oriental cuisine, aromas of exotic dishes. Translated from Greek, basil is translated as "royal", "royal". Grass belongs to the Lamiaceae family, and is not considered a curiosity for summer residents. Spice varieties have been developed that are grown everywhere, adding to various dishes, canned food.

More than 70 varieties of spicy herbs are known to scientists, but 3 species are most common in vegetable gardens, which differ in leaf size and color. Depending on the application, camphor basil is used in medicine, fragrant or ordinary for the preparation of seasonings.

If in the countries of the Mediterranean region a spicy plant is found in the wild, then in other areas it is cultivated, grown for treatment and consumption. In Greece, the grass is called reagan, and in India it is known as tulsi - incomparable. The grass does not tolerate frost at all, therefore it is more common in areas with comfortable climatic conditions: in the Caucasus, in the Crimea, on the Pacific islands. But summer residents also grow basil in Siberia, choosing varieties adapted to more severe conditions.

The whole plant is fragrant: the basil leaves, the stem, and the calyx of the inflorescences.

Plants include both annuals and perennials.

Photos of the basilica

I wonder what basil looks like in the garden. This plant has tetrahedral stems, rising up to 30-60 centimeters above the ground. Beds different types plants can decorate the site. After all, basil leaves can be green, purple or burgundy in color. And when the grass is in bloom, it is impossible to take your eyes off the miniature cups of white, pink, purple hue. Inflorescences reach a length of up to 30 centimeters, towering at the top of the stem. At the same time, the aroma from plantings spreads around, attracting insects with a peppery, mint, lemon smell.

There are varieties with smooth and fluffy leaves and stems. They have glands that secrete essential oils with various odors.

In late August - early September, instead of flowers, black nutlets are formed, where basil seeds are hidden. They are scattered around the area on their own, so the grass spreads. So that there is no chaotic growth of the spice, the seeds are collected and planted in beds in sunny areas or in a greenhouse. Basil is also grown in pots on the windowsill.

Composition of basil

Fragrant herb contains many useful elements. In the green parts of the plant, almost all B vitamins, ascorbic acid. Basil leaves are valued for their presence of potassium, calcium, magnesium, iron, cholines. Therefore, it is useful to harvest leaves for medicinal purposes.

Among the greenery, basil is famous not only for its fragrant flowers, the plant also has medicinal properties. Leaves and stems are used as a seasoning due to the presence of essential oils in them. Dry grass is used by culinary specialists for cooking French, Georgian, Italian cuisine. There are only 23 kilocalories in 100 grams of spice. Plant parts contain more proteins and carbohydrates than fats. The nutritional value of dried grass increases, as the content of carbohydrates in it increases.

Thanks to the rich composition of basil, the plant has both healing and excellent taste qualities. It is advised to use it as a seasoning in diets for those who want to lose extra pounds.

Basil application and beneficial properties

When talking about the use of spicy herbs, they usually mean ordinary basil. The bred plant varieties have many advantages, both culinary and medicinal.

In medicine

Camphor basil is actively used in medicine. Even during the war years, the plant was used to prepare camphor alcohol, which served as an excellent antiseptic in the treatment of wounds.

The use of the herb basil ordinary takes into account the fact that basil helps in the treatment of patients with:

• asthenia;
• weakened respiratory function;
• circulatory disorders;
• depressed state of the central nervous system;
• epilepsy;
• headaches and toothaches;
• upper colds respiratory tract, angina.

Spice-based products stop vomiting. They should be used to improve digestion, increase appetite.

Leaf infusions are used for rinsing with stomatitis, compresses in the treatment of allergic dermatitis.

In cooking

Basil, its leaves, fresh and dried, are used in cooking. Greek, Caucasian, Italian cuisine cannot be imagined without this seasoning.

Vegetable basil in Central Asian dishes has the name raikhon. Not a single dish of national cuisine can do without seasoning. And the main dishes of the peoples of the Caucasus are seasoned with dried reagan grass. Fresh young shoots are eaten raw with pleasure.

Fragrant basil put:

• French in sauces, soups;
• the British - cottage cheese, pates, stews and tomato salads;
• Italian chefs sprinkle pasta, boiled and jellied fish with powdered spice;
• to spice up salads, sauces, ketchups;
• in the manufacture of sausages, canned and smoked products.

In order for the herb to retain its flavor in dishes, it is necessary to sprinkle the dish with spice before serving. 0.5 grams of dried herb powder is enough per serving.

In cosmetology

Medicinal herbs with a strong aroma are not overlooked by perfumers. The essential oil obtained by steam distillation is widely used in the preparation of cosmetics for skin care. After using the cream, gel with basil oil, the skin becomes elastic, rejuvenated.

Antioxidants in the composition of the plant have a positive effect on the restoration of metabolic processes in the dermis at the cellular level, normalize the water-salt and fat balance.

Juice obtained from spicy herbs helps to heal inflammation on the skin, heal ulcers. Therefore, fragrant basil is used in lotions, cleansers. Drugs can reduce the amount of acne on the face, heal purulent wounds with acne.

Grass with the smell of lemon, cinnamon, mint is added as a flavoring agent to soaps, perfumes, toothpastes. In addition, the funds also have an antiseptic effect on tissues and mucous membranes.

Do not get carried away with spice-based cosmetics for people with allergic reactions, sensitive skin.

At home

An experienced hostess can use common basil to aromatize the premises of the house, spreading the branches on parchment paper.

The finished oil of the plant is instilled into special aroma lamps, choosing the right smell. When cleaning the house, add 2-3 drops to a bucket to mop the floor. And dropping on a soft cloth, wipe the furniture.

In home preservation, fresh herb leaves are used, adding to marinades for preparing blanks for the winter. The plant goes well with tomatoes. It will give originality to ketchups and sauces.

You can cook the herb, put it in sealed bags and send it to freezer. So until the next harvest, the hostess will use seasoning.

Leaves are kept fresh glass jar when they are poured with olive oil. Within 3 months, you can season the dishes with spicy herbs.

Useful properties and contraindications to the use of basil

Like any essential oil culture, spicy herbs should be used with caution, especially for those who suffer from:

• blood clotting disorders;
• thrombophlebitis, varicose veins;
• peptic ulcer of the stomach and duodenum;
• hypertension and heart failure.

The herb is harmful to allergy sufferers who have reactions to the strong spicy aroma of the plant.

To increase appetite, it is worth using basil leaves by adding them to tea or dishes, but excessive consumption will lead to irritation of the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines.

Do not use preparations with herbal essential oils more than 3 times a week. Excessive doses will lead to poisoning. It is dangerous to give spice-based products to children under 7 years of age, women during pregnancy and lactation. vegetable crops, like fragrant basil, can give an unpredictable reaction. Aromatic, it can cause dizziness, loss of consciousness during ingestion large quantities.

Do not get carried away chewing fresh leaves of the plant for those who have increased sensitivity of tooth enamel.

You should definitely consult your doctor before using herbal medicines.

Folk recipes

Traditional medicine advises taking fragrant basil in cases where:

1. Sicks in transport. A couple of leaves of grass are placed in the mouth for the duration of the journey.
2. The nervous system is depressed, there is a feeling of heaviness in the stomach. 15-30 grams of raw materials are poured with boiling water in the amount of 60 milliliters. The remedy must be infused until cool, then strain and take half a glass 2 times a day. After a week of treatment, take a break for 14 days, then repeat the course.
3. Shoots in the ears. The juice from the leaves and stems of the plant is squeezed out when the grass has not yet bloomed. In its pure form, it can be instilled into the ears with purulent otitis media.
4. A urinary tract infection was diagnosed. Inside use in a diluted form, mixing with water in equal amounts. The solution is taken with cystitis, pyelonephritis 2-3 times a day. You can replace the juice with an infusion of basil leaves: 2 tablespoons of herbs in 500 milliliters of hot water. Use half a glass three times a day.
5. You need to improve your eyesight. From the essential oil in the amount of 2-3 drops per glass of hot water, compresses are made for the eyelids for 10-15 minutes 1 time per day. Thanks to the strong antioxidant in basil oil, you can keep your eyesight intact until old age.
6. You need to prepare for the birth of a baby. To facilitate childbirth, they begin to drink an infusion of common basil, lemon balm, borage, violet flowers in a week, taking plants in a ratio of 2: 2: 1: 1. Pour 1 tablespoon of the collection with 500 milliliters of hot water. Drink 100 grams of the drug, alternating with raspberry leaf tea.
7. It is necessary to eliminate the inflammation in the mouth. To soothe toothache, use an infusion of leaves, rinsing the mouth 2-3 times a day.
8. Sore throat, cough. Essential oil of basil (4-5 drops) can be added to a potato decoction and breathed.

There are many interesting things associated with basil. Where the bushes of the plant grew, pests of the garden and vegetable garden do not appear. Therefore, it is worth starting growing herbs in your area, as basil will attract with its smell and beneficial insects, which will be engaged in pollination of garden and horticultural crops. Attracts a plant of bees, bumblebees in a greenhouse, so you can plant spicy grass there.

Indians believe fragrant plant divine. It protects the dwelling from evil spells, cleans the human aura. And the Egyptians used aromatic powder in mummification mixtures. From the stems of the plant, a rosary was made, which could protect from evil forces, the evil eye.

In the countries of southern Europe, reagan is considered a plant that indicates loyalty and love. If a young man takes a stalk of grass from a girl's hands, then he becomes her fiance. Considered a strong aphrodisiac, the plant will help increase sexual desire. It is advised to take grass before love pleasures for both a man and a woman.

The taste of basil is considered incomparable, regal. After all, before dishes with spices were served only in rich houses. Now everyone can enjoy the aroma by adding fresh leaves to summer salads. Without them, you can’t get a real Italian pesto sauce.

The article discusses basil - how to use the plant. You will find out what seasonings the spice is combined with. We will tell you how to add basil to meat dishes, preparations for the winter, sauces and desserts.

How to use basil in cooking

Fresh and dried basil is used in cooking

Basil is called the royal herb. It is widely used in cooking, adding to main dishes, salads, appetizers, sauces and drinks.. Basil greens are popular in Mediterranean and Asian cuisines.

As a fragrant seasoning, fresh or dried basil leaves, as well as its seeds, are used. The taste of the spice in the finished dish is revealed gradually - at first the basil gives bitterness, then a sweetish aftertaste appears.

Basil with what to eat:

• meat;
• a fish;
• vegetables;
• legumes;
• milk products;
• eggs.

What dishes do you add fresh basil to?

Young basil leaves are added to appetizers, salads, and sandwich mixes. Greens are used in canning and for the preparation of marinade. Basil goes well with dishes of meat, fish, vegetables and legumes.

It is added to tomatoes, eggs, sauerkraut, spinach and cheese. Based on basil, various sauces are prepared, for example, the famous Italian pesto..

What dishes use dried basil

Dried basil is used as a condiment. At the same time, it can be an independent spice or a component of ready-made seasonings: suneli hops, Provencal herbs, Italian herbs and Garni bouquet.

Basil - what is seasoning for:

• salads;
• meat dishes;
• fish dishes;
• beverages.

Dried basil adds a bitter and spicy flavor to dishes.

Basil Seasoning - Applications:

• The main rule in using seasoning is to add it to the dish at the final stage of cooking. So the basil will retain nutrients and rich aroma.
• Spice is added to minced meat at the kneading stage. On average, one serving of the dish should be put 0.5 g. dried basil.

How to use basil in meat dishes

Basil pairs well with meat.

Basil gives meat dishes a unique taste and spicy aroma. Greens are added to meat salads and main courses of pork, beef and poultry. These basil dishes combine thyme, lemon and walnut.

Fresh leaves are added to meat goulash and gravy. In tandem with tomato and garlic, basil emphasizes the taste of meat and makes it more piquant. Consider the recipe for pork with basil.

You will need:

• pork - 1 kg;
• basil - 7 leaves;
• rosemary - ½ teaspoon;
• paprika - ½ teaspoon;
• onion - 1 pc.;
• olive oil - 1 tablespoon;
• garlic - 3 cloves;
• tomato paste - 2 tablespoons;
• salt and pepper - to taste.

How to cook:

1. Cut the meat into pieces, marinate in olive oil and spices.
2. Wash, dry and finely chop the herbs.
3. Put the meat on medium heat.
4. Add finely chopped onion, garlic and tomato paste to it.
5. Simmer covered for half an hour.
6. Add chopped greens and simmer for another 10 minutes.

calories: Calories per 100 gr. product 185 kcal.

How to use basil for harvesting for the winter

Basil is used in the preservation of vegetables and fruits. Fresh leaves are added to berry compotes and jams.

For harvesting cucumbers or tomatoes for the winter, a combination of basil with horseradish root is suitable. On the three-liter jar put 5-6 leaves of the plant.

The most popular basil jam is raspberry mint. It strengthens the immune system, eliminates the symptoms of colds.

You will need:

• raspberries - 1 kg;
• basil - 5 leaves;
• mint - 7 leaves;
• lemon peel - 20 gr.;
• granulated sugar - 500 gr.

How to cook:

1. Rinse the raspberries, sprinkle with sugar and leave for 20 minutes to extract the juice.
2. Put the container with raspberries on the fire, bring to a boil.
3. Remove from fire, cool. Repeat the heating procedure 2 more times.
4. Put the mint and basil leaves in a cheesecloth bag, add lemon zest to them and place them in the jam, during the last heating.

calories: Calories per 100 gr. product 159 kcal.

How to use basil to make sauces

Basil is used to make ketchups, sauces and various dressings. They make the dish more harmonious, adding piquancy and flavor.

Fresh herbs are chopped and mixed with the rest of the ingredients for the sauce. Basil is often combined with tomatoes, cheese, olive oil and other greens. Such dressings are suitable for pasta, meat and fish dishes. Consider the recipe for the popular pesto sauce.

You will need:

• basil - 1 bunch;
• parmesan - 50 gr.;
• pine nuts - 30 gr.;
• garlic - 3 cloves;
• olive oil - 100 ml.

How to cook:

1. Wash and dry the basil leaves.
2. Grate the cheese.
3. Peel and cut the garlic.
4. Mix all ingredients in a blender.

calories: Calories per 100 gr. product 675 kcal.

For more information on how to make basil pesto, see this video:

Using Basil in Desserts

Basil, along with mint, is often used to make desserts. Greens are combined with fresh fruits, dairy products and pastries. In desserts, basil is added as a dry seasoning or fresh herbs. Fresh leaves are used to decorate cakes, pies and casseroles. Consider the recipe for basil cream.

You will need:

• milk - 150 ml;
• chicken egg - 1 pc.;
• cornstarch - 5 gr.;
• cream - 100 ml;
• granulated sugar - 20 gr.;
• basil - 15 leaves.

How to cook:

1. Rinse and dry the basil, finely chop.
2. Put the milk on the fire, add the basil and bring to a boil.
3. Whisk the egg with sugar and starch.
4. Slowly add the egg mixture to the boiling milk.
5. Continue cooking the cream until it thickens. Stir constantly.
6. Remove from heat, let cool.
7. Whip the cream to firm peaks.
8. Add them to the cooled cream.
9. Stir, arrange in bowls and put in the refrigerator for half an hour.
10. The finished dish can be decorated with basil leaves.

calories: Calories per 100 gr. product 114 kcal.

What spices go with basil

Combined with rosemary, basil takes on a mild peppery aroma. The seasoning is combined with thyme, parsley, coriander, mint, marjoram and tarragon.

What to remember

1. Young basil leaves are added to snacks, salads, meat and vegetable dishes.
2. Dried basil is used as a condiment.
3. The spice is added to the dish at the final stage of cooking.

Basil is a genus of the Lamiaceae family. These are mostly containerized annuals. herbaceous plants, but there are also shrubs.

Basil got its generic name from the Greek word, which translates as "smell." In the wild form of the subtropics and tropics, there are about 150 species of this fragrant plant.

Basil has a fairly branched root and a straight tetrahedral stem. Elongated, oval-shaped leaves can be painted in a bright green color with burgundy and purple tint.

The size of the plant, as well as the appearance of its leaves, varies depending on the variety. There are tall and dwarf varieties of Basil. The leaves can reach 6 cm, they are flat, corrugated, elongated and wide, serrated. The peculiarity of Basil is the unusual spicy aroma of its leaves.

The plant blooms white flowers with pink, and sometimes lilac or purple tint. Flowers are collected in inflorescences in elongated brushes and placed in the axils of the leaves at the top of the plant. Despite the small size of the flowers, they have a rich aroma that attracts insects. The plant bears fruit: the seeds are small, round, brown.

Basil is widely used as a seasoning for cooking various dishes, as well as medicinal plant. In room conditions, dwarf species and varieties with small but fragrant leaves are grown.

cultivation

Seeds are sown to a depth of 2.5 cm in greenhouses or pots on the windowsill in April, and in open ground- in the end of May. For seed germination, a temperature of + 10-20ºС is needed.

After the seeds have germinated (on average after two weeks), it is necessary to dive seedlings. Then transplant seedlings into indoor pots(up to 1 liter) or open ground. It is recommended to plant two bushes in each hole or pot. The plant is very sensitive to cold and wind, prefers well-lit places, without drafts.

Basil requires constant watering, especially during seed germination and before the first flowers appear. Plants need to be thinned out, as well as periodically loosen the soil, removing weeds.

In room conditions, Basil needs regular pruning and timely fertilization.

Diseases and pests

Aphids, fusarium, gray mold, black leg, caterpillars of winter scoops and gamma scoops.

reproduction

Seeds, cuttings.

First steps after purchase

Before buying Potted Basil, inspect the stems of the plant for black or spotted stems. Such plants cannot be bought, as the fungus will multiply. If spots appear after purchase, it is recommended to treat the plants with wood ash or a solution of copper sulfate (half a teaspoon per liter of water) and do not water for several days. A healthy plant is slightly shaded from direct sunlight, lightly watered. In hot weather, spray with settled water at room temperature.

Basil seeds are also available. Before sowing, they should be soaked, which will significantly speed up germination.

Success Secrets

Basil seeds can remain viable for up to six years. Greenhouses with seedlings of Basil must be constantly ventilated. Since the plant prefers bright, full lighting, it is recommended to place the Basil pot on sunny side premises.

Basil prefers room temperature for growth and development, summer period it is advisable to take out the pot with the plant on the balcony or on Fresh air to the garden.

Water the plant moderately, as the topsoil dries up, on hot days - daily, creating additional moisture by spraying the leaves in the morning or evening.

It is recommended to collect leaves before flowering, when the shoots have reached 10–12 cm, then they contain the greatest amount of useful substances. For this purpose, it is recommended to cut off the tops of the shoots two to three times per season, forming a lush and branched shrub.

Possible difficulties

Seedlings are aging

Reason: 1) high humidity in a greenhouse.

Decreased productivity

Reason: 1) lack organic matter in the soil.

The plant does not smell

Reason: 1) lack of solar heat.

Leaves turn yellow

Reasons: 1) insufficient watering, 2) excess fertilizer.

The article discusses basil. We talk about its beneficial properties and contraindications, use in cooking, medicine and cosmetology. You will learn the rules for harvesting spices, how to store it.

Basil (other names are reagan, rayhan, rean, fragrant cornflower) - annual plant, which belongs to the Yasnotkov family. This genus is represented by annual and perennial plants.

Some types of basil have the form of subshrubs. In height, the stems of a dark green shade reach 40-80 cm. Each stem has several rows of side branches.

The leaves of the plant are oval and oblong, their length is 2-3 cm. As a rule, they are light green in color, but in some species they are purple. The leaves are located on short cuttings. On the leaves and stem there are special glands that contain essential oils.

Basil blooms in August small flowers white or Pink colour. These flowers form inflorescences that reach up to 30 cm in length.

The fruits are formed in early autumn, they are represented by black nuts small size. The branched roots of the plant are located in the upper part of the soil.

Where does it grow

Basil is a thermophilic plant, for this reason it is mainly grown in the southern regions. There is an assumption that Africa is its homeland, but according to some opinions, it may be Asia.

Currently, basil is distributed in the tropics and regions with temperate climate. Most often found in southern countries Europe, Africa.

Taste and aroma

This spice has many flavors. The leaves of some varieties of the plant smell like lemon, others smell like vanilla and caramel. There are also varieties whose smell has clove and pepper shades, and even!

The taste of fresh and dried basil is markedly different. The dried leaves of the plant are somewhat reminiscent of curry. The dried leaves of young basil are of particular value, as the old one has a sharp taste and aroma. The taste of the spice is contradictory: bitter with a sweet aftertaste.

The chemical composition of basil

Part spicy plant includes the following substances:

• B vitamins;
• vitamin C;
• vitamin K;
• vitamin PP;
• calcium;
• magnesium;
• sodium;
• potassium;
• phosphorus;
• iron;
• zinc;
• copper;
• manganese;
• selenium;
• essential oils;
• monosaccharides;
• disaccharides;
• essential and non-essential amino acids;
• fatty acid;
• saturated fatty acids;
• monounsaturated fatty acids;
• polyunsaturated fatty acids.

This chemical composition has a beneficial effect on the human body.

The calorie content of fresh basil is 27 kcal per 100 g of product. At the same time, dry spice contains 251 kcal per 100 g.

Useful properties of basil

Basil has the following medicinal properties:

• antiseptic;
• antipyretic;
• astringent;
• secretory;
• immunostimulating;
• diaphoretic;
• anti-inflammatory;
• antispasmodic;
• bactericidal;
• antitussive;
• antimicrobial;
• painkiller;
• expectorant;
• sedative;
• tonic.

Basil is an excellent spice for activating the human nervous system. It serves as an effective defense against various pathogens.

Basil has been shown to help stop the development of HIV and cancer cells. It has a beneficial effect on the activity of the gastrointestinal tract, and a decoction of its leaves is actively used against coughs.

The antitussive and anti-inflammatory effects of the plant help to use it against most respiratory ailments. It also helps to cope with viral, bacterial and fungal infections. respiratory system including all forms of bronchitis, asthma. In some cases, this plant helps to cope with the main factors in the development of asthma.

Basil serves as an antipyretic and diaphoretic in the treatment of influenza and other cold-related ailments. It promotes the removal of mucous secretions from the nose and lungs, increases sensory perception. It also eliminates increased gas formation, improves the absorption of nutrients, strengthens memory and heals nerve fibers. In order to improve the nervous state, drink a drink consisting of honey and basil.

Due to its antimicrobial properties, the plant is effective in diseases of the oral cavity. Basil neutralizes pathogenic bacteria that cause cavities, plaque and tartar, bad smell from mouth. The astringent effect of the spice helps to strengthen the gums and prevent tooth loss. But at the same time, basil contains mercury compounds that can damage teeth. For this reason, we recommend that you do not chew fresh basil, but drink its decoction instead.

The antioxidant properties of the herb protect the body from free radicals. This, in turn, reduces the risk of cancer.

The spice is used to treat flatulence and diseases of the digestive tract. The enzymes present in the composition of the plant accelerate the breakdown of fats, which contributes to weight loss. Agree, it's wonderful! You do not have to sit on various diets, for example, on or, it is enough to use the spice regularly, and excess weight will leave!

Basil is used for various nervous disorders and. Basil is useful for men, as it increases potency.

Methyl-cavicol, which is present in the composition of the essential oil, improves immunity and stops the aging process of cells. And eugenol and estragole will be useful for people who are engaged in mental work.

The use of basil in medicine

The beneficial properties of basil make it indispensable in the treatment of such diseases:

• ENT organs: sinusitis, influenza, tonsillitis, SARS;
• urinary system: pyelonephritis, cystitis, urethritis, pyelitis;
• gastrointestinal tract: gastritis, heartburn, colitis, increased gas formation;
• nervous system: neurosis, sleep disturbances, headache, depression;
• respiratory system: bronchial asthma, whooping cough.

V traditional medicine for treatment I use basil juice, infusions and decoctions based on it. Before using them, be sure to consult your doctor to determine the required dosage and duration of administration.

Basil juice is prepared from the fresh leaves of the plant. It helps improve digestion, strengthen teeth and eliminate stomatitis. The standard regimen for taking the drug involves taking 20 ml of juice three times a day before meals. Keep the juice in your mouth for 2 minutes to strengthen your teeth.

Below are recipes for folk remedies based on basil.

basil tea recipe

Ingredients:

• water - 250 ml;
• basil - 1 dessert spoon.

How to cook: Pour boiling water over raw materials, leave for 20 minutes.

How to use: Add a little honey to the resulting composition. Drink the drink twice a day.

Result: Tea with basil helps in the treatment of diseases of the nervous system, it helps to get rid of stress and fatigue. Such a drink improves digestive processes, eliminates flatulence, reduces nausea, and has an antiemetic effect. Tea also has a hypotensive effect, increases tissue trophism.

Basil decoction recipe

Ingredients:

• water - 330 ml;
• basil - 55 g.

How to cook: Fill the raw material with water, put the composition on fire. Boil 7-12 minutes. Cool and strain through several layers of cheesecloth.

How to use: Take a decoction 3 times a day for 2-3 sips. For skin pathology, drink a decoction of half a glass three times a day for 2 weeks.

Result: The decoction helps to cope with inflammation of the kidneys and Bladder, respiratory ailments, colitis and chronic gastroenteritis. The drink eliminates itchy skin with eczema, dermatitis and urticaria.

Infusion for the treatment of impotence

Ingredients:

• flowering stems of basil - 2 dessert spoons;
• medicinal sage - 2 dessert spoons;
• rosemary - 2 dessert spoons;
• water - 1.5 l.

How to cook: Pour the herbs into a saucepan, pour boiling water over it and cover tightly with a lid. Leave the remedy for 3 hours.

How to use: Drink a glass of strained infusion warm 3 times a day.

Result: Potency increase.

Basil in cosmetology

Aromatic spice received wide application in cosmetology. Basil is effective for:

• elimination of dullness of hair and acceleration of their growth;
• facial skin rejuvenation, toning and soothing;
• disinfection of the dermis and elimination of inflammation, which is important for problematic skin.

Use our recipes to help improve the condition of your hair and skin.

Lifting mask recipe

Ingredients:

• basil - 50 g.

How to cook: Grind raw materials.

How to use: Apply the resulting composition on the face, neck and décolleté. Top with gauze. After half an hour, wash off the composition with cool water.

Result: This mask tightens sagging skin, tones it and improves the oval of the face.

Strengthening hair lotion

Ingredients:

• basil - 50 g;
• rosemary - 50 g;
• water - 1 l.

Cooking: Mix herbs, pour boiling water over them. Infuse the composition for 1 hour under a tightly closed lid. Strain the infusion.

Usage: Moisten the scalp and curls with the resulting composition after washing.

Result: Strengthening hair, giving it shine.

Basil in cooking

In cooking, basil is used both dried and fresh. Fresh basil is most valuable.

Where is basil added?

• meat dishes;
• salads;
• sandwich oil;
• vegetable dishes from beans, tomatoes, peas, spinach and sauerkraut;
• soups;
• fish dishes.

In Azerbaijan, basil seeds are used to flavor drinks, salads, soups and pates. In Italian cuisine, spice is combined with tomatoes, green vegetables, eggs, cheese, lamb, pizza and sauces.

Crushed dried basil leaves improve the taste of sausages and pates, they are added to dumplings. It is used to prepare pepper mixture.

Basil goes well with other spices, forming a unique bouquet of aromas. For example, together with it it acquires a peppery aroma, and when combined with thyme, it increases the spiciness of the dish.

What to replace

Not a single seasoning can fully replace basil. But thyme or oregano can partially cope with this.

Essential oil of basil

Basil contains essential oils, most of which are located in the leaves and inflorescences. At the same time, there is a smaller amount of oils in the stem.

Basil oil is obtained through steam distillation. To obtain 1 liter of ether, it is necessary to use 100 kg of a fresh plant. The oil has no color, but in some cases it can be colored in yellow(depending on the type of basil).

Basil essential oil has been widely used. It is actively used in cosmetology for smoothing wrinkles, slowing down the aging process, giving the skin elasticity and firmness. Ether is often added to anti-aging cosmetics. Oil controls metabolic processes in the body, maintains water and fat balance.

Basil ester is useful in diseases of the joints and to improve blood circulation, it is used in the form antiseptic. Chemical composition The product determines its effectiveness in colds and digestive disorders. Basil ester increases blood pressure.

Photos of the basilica

Rules for harvesting basil for the winter

When harvesting basil, pick only whole stems or leaves. If you plan to collect a large number of basil harvest, then pick only the leaves, but do not touch the stem so that new leaves grow on it in the future.

Rinse the collected leaves, then dry on a towel in a well-ventilated place.

How to store basil

You can store the herb frozen or dried. In dried form, store the spice in glass container or in cloth bags in a dark and dry place.

You need to freeze fresh basil, which is washed, dried and finely chopped. Place it in an airtight container and place in the freezer.

1. The smell of basil brings material well-being- put a pinch of spice in your pocket or put a few drops of ether on your hand.
2. Basil helps bring wealth into the home. To do this, place a sprig of a dry plant under the threshold.
3. Basil growing on the windowsill attracts happiness and prosperity to the house.
4. Basil essential oil helps to protect the house from evil spirits.
5. The aroma of basil is used to harmonize love relationships. It increases sympathy, prevents quarrels and conflicts, helps to attract the attention of a person you like.
6. Do you remember Elchin Safarli's novel “There Without Back”? In it, Ozan gives a pot of basil to his beloved Alexandra with the words "This is a real love charm." There is a belief in the East that a woman will fall in love with a man if he gives her a pot of basil. And many still believe in this belief! You can use basil to determine your relationship with your loved one. To do this, place 2 basil leaves on a burning coal. If they stay together and quickly turn to ashes, then your relationship will be harmonious. If the leaves crackle, then this means frequent quarrels. In the case when the leaves scatter to the sides with a crash, then it is better for the couple not to start any relationship.
7. The smell of basil eliminates migraines, improves overall health and improves mood.
8. Aphids are very afraid of fresh basil.
9. The aroma of the plant repels flies and other insects.
10. Rub the body with basil leaves and then not a single mosquito will bite you!

Contraindications

Despite the medicinal properties of spices, sometimes its use can harm the human body. Due to the mercury content of basil, this seasoning should not be eaten in large quantities. Also contraindications are:

• hypertension;
• epilepsy;
• diabetes;
• lactation;
• children under six years of age:
• thrombophlebitis;
• ischemia of the heart;
• pregnancy;
• the period after a heart attack;
• personal intolerance.

Side effects

In some cases, after consuming basil, the following side effects may appear:

• allergic rashes;
• convulsions;
• poisoning;
• mucosal irritation.

No on suburban area a brighter spicy herb than basil, whose photo varieties amaze with juicy greens, purples and violet tones. No less rich aroma of fresh herbs. Depending on the variety, the fragrance of the leaves resembles the smell of vanilla, cinnamon, camphor, lemon and cloves, caramel and all kinds of combinations of these notes.

Types of basil, photos and brief descriptions

Fragrant, noble or ordinary basil with a peppery aroma and pungent taste became the basis for breeding plants with smooth, large and often wrinkled leaves. Thanks to the work of breeders, the varieties obtained on the basis of this type of basil acquired the smell of menthol, vanilla.

The leaves, inflorescences and stems of the camphor or mint-leaved variety, unlike the fragrant basil, are covered with small hairs, some of which contain an odorous essential oil that determines the recognizable aroma. Heat-loving, like other types and varieties of basil, the plant has long been appreciated by pharmacists and perfumers. Before the Great Patriotic War the herbaceous shrubs of the basil shown in the photo in the south of the country were grown for the industrial production of camphor.

In the Crimea, in the Kuban and in the North Caucasus, eugenol basil is grown, which is almost twice as large as its counterparts and, due to the high content of eugenol, has a bright clove smell. The plant is highly valued as an essential oil crop and serves as a raw material for the production of a vanillin substitute for perfumery and cosmetic products.

In India, among the milestone varieties and types of basil, sacred basil or thin-colored basil is especially revered. In warm climates, tulasi, as this plant is called, has the appearance of a perennial herbaceous subshrub, smells sharply of cloves, and the leaves can be either green or purple.

The aroma of basil is determined by the combination of essential oils present in the greens.

Modern varieties have an incredibly bizarre range of smells, which is not available to any spicy-tasting culture.

At the same time, all varieties of basil grown in vegetable gardens, as in the photo, are thermophilic and can seriously freeze even at zero temperature. But this does not stop summer residents who plant seedlings or sow basil already at the beginning of summer, when the time for frost and cold nights has passed.

Descriptions and photos of basil varieties of domestic selection

Start industrial cultivation the basilica in the USSR was laid in the 20s of the last century. Then the culture was recommended only for the southern regions, including the Crimea and the Caucasus. The Voronezh region was then recognized as the northern border of the comfort zone. Today, excellent varieties of green and purple basil are available for summer residents in other areas.

Basil variety Anise Aroma with a fresh sweet-spicy smell of anise is easily recognizable not only by the aroma, but also by the combination of green, rather small leaves and reddish-brown or green-purple stems. A medium-sized bush willingly branches and throughout the warm season supplies the summer resident with excellent spicy greens.

The basil variety, in the photo, The aroma of lemon for cooking, already a month and a half after germination, gives juicy bright greens with an invigorating smell of lemon. The variety belongs to large-leaved varieties with a characteristic, bubbly shape of leaf plates, and is also distinguished by a high concentration of essential oils that give green foliage the ability to alleviate coughs, soothe stomach cramps, and facilitate the treatment of inflammatory diseases and wounds.

The Aroma of Lemon variety, bred specifically for lovers of spicy, spicy tea, forms a small bush up to 35 cm high with light green leaves and white-green spike-shaped inflorescences.

The entire aerial part of this early-ripening lemon basil is rich in essential oils and can be used both fresh and for winter harvesting, drying and freezing.

Basil No vanilla flavor large sizes. The bush grows only up to 35 - 40 centimeters, but the variety with purple jagged leaves and lilac flowers is still very interesting for gardeners. The reason is the sweet smell of vanilla, unusual for a spicy herb, which makes basil indispensable in desserts and fruit and berry preservation, in sweet pastries and fruit salads. A leaf with a spicy taste will give oriental character tea.

Varieties with this shade of leaves are often called purple or red basil. But in this case, don't confuse basil with perilla, a lesser-known spice with green, variegated, or purple foliage that is pointed, heart-shaped, or curly.

Basil Green fragrant grows rapidly after sowing, forming a well-branched shrub with a height of 40 to 50 centimeters. The large foliage is painted bright green, has a smooth crinkled surface and a spicy spicy aroma. The basil variety, in the photo, goes well with fresh tomatoes, cottage cheese and cheese, can be used in meat dishes and marinades.

The basil variety Marvelous Day will please the gardener with a fresh anise smell and a spicy, pleasant taste. The leaves of this variety are small, with deep purple veins. The stems are anthocyanin in color, branch well and reach a height of 40–50 cm.

The cinnamon aroma of basil Fragrant handsome and its bright green-lilac leaves made the variety one of the leaders among Russian summer residents. An unusual addition to fruits, desserts, hot and cold drinks will delight both adults and young gourmets.

Variety Caramel refers to mid-season varieties. One and a half or two months after sowing, the plant forms a bush 40-50 cm high with smooth dark green foliage. main feature culture is disclosed in the variety name. The greens have a pleasant caramel flavor that will undoubtedly add a spicy note to desserts, pastries, fruit salads and homemade preparations.

Fragrant purple basil is an indispensable addition to roast and baked meat, fresh salads and marinades. A basil bush with purple foliage, the same stems and pink-purple inflorescences produces up to 230 grams of excellent fragrant greens per season and branches quickly when pinching the tops.

Basil Violet fragrant with large purple-red leaves and raspberry or purple flowers has a rich aroma of pepper. To preserve the smell, the leaves are recommended to be added fresh, as well as used in marinades, home preservation, for the preparation of flavored vegetable oils and vinegar.

The variety belongs to the mid-early varieties, and over the summer, up to 250 grams of fresh foliage can be obtained from the plant.

The Smuglyanka basil variety will delight lovers of spicy purple foliage with a bright peppery smell and tart taste, indispensable in marinades and salads with ripe tomatoes or spaghetti.

One of the most famous and beloved varieties of basil, in the photo, is considered to be Ararat with purple flowers, purple-violet stems and green leaves, generously decorated with lilac, purple spray and veins. Ararat basil greens have a classic peppery aroma, pleasant taste, and whole plants are valued for their productivity, fast growth rates and great taste.

For lovers of plant growing on the windowsill, the Basilisk basil depicted in the photo with medium-sized green leaves and a bush only 20 centimeters high is suitable. At home, greens with a peppery-clove smell grow without problems throughout the year. You can even transplant into a pot mature plant grown for garden beds.

Basil Taste of Cinnamon will give the gardener early spicy greens. The leaves of this variety not only have a cinnamon aroma unusual for the culture, but also decorate any dish thanks to purple or violet veins penetrating the entire leaf plate.

The mid-season variety of green basil Gourmet Clove is a truly versatile plant whose delicious foliage goes equally well with vegetables and meat, cheese and fish. Abundantly growing greens are suitable for fresh consumption and do not lose their clove smell after drying. During the season, a bush up to 60 cm high gives about 800 grams of juicy elliptical leaves.

Well-known to Russian gardeners, the purple basil of the Yerevan variety quickly forms a sprawling, well-branched bush up to 60 centimeters high. The leaves of this variety have a peppery aroma with warm hints of tea and do not lose their properties when dried or frozen.

Giving a spicy clove aroma and taste of home-preserved basil Tonus vegetable is one of the most popular varieties among summer residents, in demand due to high yield and a bright clove smell of greenery. During the season, rapidly growing shrubs per square meter give up to three kilograms of spicy foliage for universal purposes.

Even in the photo of the Thai Queen basil variety, you can clearly see how original and bright this plant looks. The variety, which has rightfully received the royal title, not only impresses with unusual inflorescences of a purple-lilac hue and elongated green foliage. The greens of this variety have a classic peppery smell and spicy taste. This variety of basil, which blooms for two months, will be appreciated by lovers of ornamental plants, as well as those who keep pots of herbs at home, on a windowsill or balcony.

Video about the basilica