Basil is a flavorful, leafy green herb that originated in Asia and Africa and is one of the most widely known and grown herbs in the world. It’s a member of the mint family, and many different varieties exist.  Popular as a food seasoning, this aromatic herb is also used in teas and supplements which may provide a range of health benefits. 

Italian Basil: It is the most widely grown popular basil and plays a role in many Mediterranean, and particularly Italian, cuisines. It forms the basis of pesto and adds a distinctive flavor to salads, pasta, pizza, and other dishes. It has a licorice-clove flavor.

Health Benefits

In the diet, sweet basil can provide vitamins, minerals, and a range of antioxidants. Basil provides some macronutrients, such as calcium and vitamin K.

Sweet basil, for example, has a high concentration of the chemical agent eugenol. This gives it a clove-like scent.

Usage

Sprinkle fresh, chopped basil over a pizza or into a wrap, add basil to soups, tomato sauces, and stir-fries; add whole, chopped, or torn fresh leaves to a salad. Basil gives zest to tomato dishes, zucchini, eggplant, meat seasonings, stuffing and more.  Pesto — a creamy, green sauce — is one of basil’s most popular uses.  If you have fresh basil, take only the leaves — not the stem. It’s generally best to add fresh basil at the final step of cooking because heat can diminish the flavor and bright green color.

Storage

Wrap in a damp paper towel and tuck it into a plastic bag, or place stems in a glass of water and refrigerate for up to a week (remove dark leaves and change the water daily).