Basil by urbanhive
Basil is undoubtedly one of the most popular and well-known herbs in our kitchens. Many people often wonder what basil tastes like, what its effects are, or how to care for it. Today, we're going to take a closer look at these questions.
Although we associate it with Italian and other Mediterranean dishes, it originated in India and was brought to the Mediterranean region via the spice route in ancient times.
What does basil taste like?
There are significant flavor differences between different types of basil. Depending on whether it is sweet basil, lemon basil, Thai basil, or another of the more than 70 known basil varieties, the plant tastes and smells quite different. This depends on the concentration of essential oils contained in this versatile herb. Citronellol, geraniol, linalool, pinene, and terpineol are some of the oils found in all types of basil. It is precisely these oils that make basil so beneficial and healthy.
What are the effects of basil?
Health benefits of basil
From supporting a healthy digestive system to boosting the immune system - the benefits of basil plants are very diverse. Here we present some of the health-promoting effects of basil.
1. Supports healthy digestion
Basil can promote optimal digestion. The eugenol contained in the leaves has an anti-inflammatory effect in the digestive tract. Basil helps to balance acidity in the body and restores the correct pH value of the body.
2. Has anti-inflammatory effects
The essential oils in basil, such as eugenol, citronellol, and linalool, possess anti-inflammatory properties. Through these, basil can help reduce the risk of heart disease, rheumatoid arthritis, and inflammatory bowel diseases. Consuming basil can also relieve fever, headaches, sore throats, colds, coughs, and flu.
3. Promotes a healthy gut flora
Basil helps to restore the body's natural pH and nourishes healthy bacteria in the gut microflora. This increases your body's immunity and promotes healthy digestion.
4. Relieves abdominal pain
The essential, herbal oil of basil is considered a traditional remedy for treating a variety of abdominal complaints and digestive disorders. Consuming basil can help reduce bloating, stimulate appetite, and also provide relief from acid reflux.
How to care for basil?
As is often the case, it depends. Potted basil is very common, but it often wilts after a few days. This is partly because these plants have had a long journey and the soil does not have enough nutrients. In this case, quick harvesting is usually the only solution. Otherwise, water supply is very important.
Watering for potted basil:
You should water your potted basil regularly.
Ideally, the water should not come into contact with the soil.
The water should be at room temperature.
If you want to supply yourself with fresh basil all year round without effort, then check out our homefarm. That way, you'll never have to ask yourself how to plant and care for it properly again. By the way, it tastes much better from the homefarm and has more nutrients.
If you are still wondering how best to use your plants, then check out our delicious Pesto Recipe.