Ocimum basilicum, also known as sweet basil, is a common ingredient in Italian and other Mediterranean cuisines. It serves as the foundation for pesto and gives salads, pasta, pizza, and other foods a unique flavor. This herb is widely used in Vietnamese, Thai, and Indonesian cooking.

Sweet basil can offer a variety of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals to the diet. Its essential oil might provide therapeutic advantages.

While various species of basil have different flavors and scents, sweet basil is widely accessible in supermarkets.

Tulsi, or holy basil, is a different variety of basil (Ocimum santum). This plant is used therapeutically in Tamil and Ayurvedic medicine, used mainly in Southeast Asia.

Basil scientific name

The word “basil” derives from the Latin basilius and the Greek word, βασιλικόv φυτόν (basilikón phutón), both of which means “royal/kingly plant,” presumably because ancient people once thought that the plant had been used to make royal perfumes. In French, Basil is also occasionally referred to as “l’herbe royale” (the royal herb). 

The scientific name for the common basil people use is Ocimum basilicum.

Basil leaves

Basil leaves are oppositely oriented along the square stems, shiny and oval, with smooth or slightly serrated margins that often cup somewhat. The terminal clusters of tiny, white to magenta-colored flowers are borne. The plant thrives in warm regions but is very frost-sensitive. When grown in humid environments, basil is particularly vulnerable to Fusarium wilt, blight, and downy mildew.

Basil seeds

The dried flower head is where you can find the seeds. To gather basil seeds, use a fine sieve since the tiny, black seeds are challenging to handle. The brown and spent flower heads should be cut off and left to dry for a few days in a warm area. Select the old petals and chaff after crushing the heads over a colander. 

The dried seed heads can also be placed in a paper bag and shaken before being crushed with a rolling pin, poured onto a shallow pan, and the chaff blown out. Given that they did not cross-pollinate, the basil seed you have today was grown at home and will be of the same strain as the parent plant.

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How to plant basil

Basil is typically planted from transplants purchased from nurseries after being established in a greenhouse since it thrives in warm environments. To grow basil from seeds, you must start them around six weeks before your last spring frost. Basil is available for harvesting 60 to 90 days after seeding.

Basil can be prevented from flowering for as long as possible by pinching off the top sets of leaves as soon as the plant reaches a height of approximately 6 inches. If the plant blooms, it will quickly go to seed, stop growing bushy, and stop producing many fantastic leaves.

Even though sweet basil has a maximum height of 6 feet, it typically grows to 18 to 24 inches, or even less if you prune it frequently and don’t let it flower. Your basil will grow bushier and leafier if you regularly pinch it. There are also dwarf varieties that grow well in containers and are 6 inches tall.

Your plant’s size will vary according to the type, the growth environment, and the harvest quantity. 

Growing basils in pots

You can use almost any sort of pot or container to grow basil. However, there are two successful guidelines: maintain wet soil, and avoid overcrowding your plants. Planting in large, deep pots makes it simple to adhere to both requirements because there is more soil for moisture retention, more space for several plants to be spread out, and better air circulation. If you want your containers to look full, you can plant them as closely as 6 to 8 inches apart, but it’s ideal for air circulation to space them 12 to 18 inches apart. Plants that are crowded are susceptible to fungus issues.

Check the soil regularly with your finger inserted up to the second knuckle, and water your container plants when the earth seems dry at this depth. Use high-quality potting soil with good drainage to prevent the roots from sitting in water. Ensure the container includes drainage holes as well. When filling the pot, add some organic plant food and thoroughly mix it if the soil is not already fertilized. After that, feed the plants with a diluted liquid fertilizer every two weeks.

Kinds of basils

There are various types of fresh basil, despite what you might think from the selection at most grocery stores. This summer, explore a new world of flavor and aroma at your neighborhood farmers’ market or garden center. And because it can withstand extreme heat, basil is extremely simple to grow, so think about including these plants in a raised bed or container garden. Here are varieties to look for:

Sweet basil

The most popular kind is what you’ll find in those plastic containers at the grocery store. The two to three-inch long, oval-shaped leaves have a distinct peppery flavor and scent.

The leaves of sweet basil have a rounded cup shape and are a medium green tint. Mosquitoes have been known to be repelled by sweet basil.

This basil is best used for pesto and pasta recipes, basil oil, and basil sugar.

Genovese basil

The traditional variety of basil grown in Italy has extra-large, dark green leaves. Another great basil to use in pestos and Italian meals are this one. Genovese basil has a flatter, sharper-pointed leaves than Sweet basil.

Some cultivars designate the plant as sweet Genovese basil by interchangeably using the terms Sweet and Genovese basil. The flavor of true Genovese is more robust and fragrant.

Thai basil

Thai basil has more delicate, black, pointed leaves and a hot, licorice-like flavor. Thai basil is a fantastic eye-catcher in the herb garden because of the deep purple flower heads and stalks that contrast beautifully with the deep green foliage.

Thai basil is frequently used in Asian cuisines like Spicy Sesame Noodles and Thai Basil Chicken. Unlike other types of basil, Thai basil maintains flavor at greater cooking temperatures.

Opal basil

Also known as purple basil, its beautiful rich maroon hue makes fantastic contrast in the herb garden.

The taste has a stronger clove flavor and is less sweet than some basil varieties. Purple basil has a strong aroma and can be steeped in oil or vinegar to give your food a stunning color.

The opal basil reaches a height of 18 inches. About 20% of the plants will be green or variegated, making for a lovely color mix. When completely grown, its broad leaves measure an average of one to a half inches. It takes 80 days to mature.

Lemon basil

A basil variety that is increasingly becoming available in nearby nurseries and garden centers is lemon basil. Lemon basil grows between 12 and 18 inches tall with paler green leaves.

Crush a leaf between your fingers to release its delightful citrus fragrance. Nothing compares to the flavor of fresh lemon basil. Use lemon basil in teas, grilled vegetables, desserts, and marinades for fish or poultry.

Holy basil

Holy basil has a strong aroma that is spicy, sweet, and musky.

Cooking enhances the flavor because eating it fresh might be slightly bitter. Indian food uses holy basil, particularly in meat curries.

In South Asia, holy basil is also referred to as tulsi, which means the unique one. In Hinduism, it is a sacred plant. Holy Basil has numerous religious and medical applications. Holy basil is used to heal kidney problems and gastrointestinal disorders and increase blood flow.

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Basil benefits

Basil contains beta-carotene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and zeaxanthin, in addition to various vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These antioxidants and their essential oils bring about basil’s good benefits on health. Choose fresh basil for the most significant benefits because drying renders these compounds inert.

Reduces oxidative stress

Basil has a lot of antioxidants. Limonene is present in lime and lemon basils, while eugenol is in sweet basil. These antioxidants help the body fight off free radicals that may otherwise harm cells and increase your risk of developing diseases like cancer, heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes. Other antioxidants like anthocyanins and beta-carotene also play a role in this process.

Prevents cancer

Holy basil, also known as Tulsi, is slightly different from the sweet basil you use in your favorite dishes. However, some protection from several malignancies, including skin cancer, liver cancer, mouth cancer, and lung cancer, may be provided by its phytochemicals.

Regulates your blood sugar

If you have high blood sugar, including basil in your diet will be beneficial. In a study using diabetic rats, it was discovered that basil extract helped control blood sugar levels. Additionally, basil therapy may mitigate the long-term impact of blood sugar elevation.

Prevents heart disease

Eugenol in basil can block calcium channels and lower blood pressure. The herb’s essential oils might be able to lower your cholesterol and triglycerides. Magnesium, also found in basil, promotes blood flow by relaxing blood vessels and muscles.

Improves mental health

Tulsi is a popular herb in Ayurvedic treatment. According to research, it has numerous advantages, including enhancing your mental wellness. It contains substances that can lessen anxiety and sadness, improve your capacity for clear thinking, and reduce the danger of age-related memory loss.

Reduced inflammation

Eugenol, linalool, and citronellol are a few of the essential oils in basil that can aid in reducing inflammation in the body. These anti-inflammatory qualities may help reduce the likelihood of inflammatory diseases like arthritis, gastrointestinal problems, and heart disease.

Basil uses

In culinary, basil adds flavor to various foods, including tomato-based dishes, salads, zucchini, eggplant, stuffing, soups, and sauces.

One of the most well-liked uses for basil is pesto, a creamy, green sauce. Although other dairy-free variants are available, it is traditionally made with crushed basil, garlic, parmesan cheese, olive oil, and pine nuts. Try using it as a sandwich spread or dip.

Garlic, marjoram, mustard, oregano, paprika, parsley, pepper, rosemary, and sage go well with basil.

Take only the leaves—not the stem—of fresh basil. In general, it’s better to add fresh basil just before serving because heat can mute its flavor and dull its vibrant green hue (36).

Use only 1/3 of the recommended amount if a recipe asks for fresh basil, but you only have dried because dried basil is more potent.

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Basil recipes

Basil is more than simply a garnish; it transforms a dish with its fragrant, vibrant, and flavorful impact.

Garlic basil brown butter pasta

Pasta with butter, basil, garlic, and black pepper, served with fresh cherry tomatoes on top. It uses cupboard staples and is a garden-fresh spin on spaghetti that takes approximately 20 minutes to prepare.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound of bucatini pasta or any pasta of your choice
• 6 tablespoons salted butter
• 2 to 3 cloves of garlic, minced or grated
• 1 1/2 teaspoons freshly cracked black pepper
• 1/2 cup freshly grated pecorino cheese
• 1 cup roughly chopped fresh basil 
• 2 cups halved cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• crushed red pepper flakes
• kosher salt

Instructions:

1. Cook pasta until al dente, as directed on the package, in a big pot of boiling salted water. Reserve 1 cup of the pasta boiling water just before draining. Drain.
2. In a sizable skillet set over medium heat, melt 4 tablespoons of butter. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the butter is browned and the garlic is golden and fragrant after adding the garlic and pepper. Add the pasta, remaining butter, pecorino, and 1/2 cup of the pasta water after lowering the heat to low until the butter has melted. Remove from the heat, add 3/4 cup basil, and stir. 
3. If necessary, thicken the sauce with additional pasta water.
4. Combine the tomatoes, remaining 1/4 cup of basil, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and a dash of salt in a bowl.
5. Divide the spaghetti among bowls and top with tomatoes to serve.

Basil-tomato grilled cheese

This simple grilled cheese sandwich is filled with summery flavors and prepared in the Italian way. In addition to being delicious, it is also easy to make, allowing you to continue your summertime outdoor activities.

Ingredients:

• 8 slices Italian bread (3/4 inch thick)
• 8 slices part-skim mozzarella cheese
• 2 large plum tomatoes, sliced
• 2 tablespoons minced fresh basil
• 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder

Instructions:

1. Layer mozzarella cheese and tomatoes on four slices of bread. Season with basil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Add the remaining bread on top.
2. Brush the outsides of each sandwich with the mixture of oil, Parmesan cheese, and garlic powder in a small bowl.
3. Toast the sandwiches until the cheese has melted and they are golden brown on both sides in a pan over medium heat.

Tomato and basil soup

This hearty tomato soup with homemade basil pesto is terrific for the dead of winter.

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, crushed
• 5 soft sundried or SunBlush tomatoes in oil, roughly chopped
• 3 x 400g cans of plum tomatoes
• 500ml turkey or vegetable stock
• 1 tsp sugar, any type or more to taste
• 142ml pot soured cream
• 125g pot fresh basil pesto
• basil leaves to serve

Instructions:

1. Add garlic to melted butter or oil in a big pan and cook for a few minutes over low heat. 
2. Bring to a simmer after adding the sun-dried tomatoes, canned tomatoes, stock, sugar, and seasoning. 
3. Allow the soup to bubble for 10 minutes or until the tomatoes have slightly broken down.
4. Use a stick blender to mix while gradually adding half the pot of sour cream. 
5. Taste the dish, then season to taste, adding more sugar if necessary. 
6. Serve in bowls with about a tablespoon of the pesto swirled on top, some other soured cream, and basil leaves scattered throughout.

Basil for dogs

It’s okay for your dog to consume tiny amounts of basil. Its anti-inflammatory properties and high antioxidant content aid in the prevention of numerous illnesses, including cancer. Additionally, basil relaxes your agitated dog, prevents cellular damage, and lessens arthritis discomfort.

Sources:

• https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/266425
• https://www.britannica.com/plant/basil
• https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/basil
• https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/ocimum-basilicum/
• https://www.almanac.com/plant/basil
• https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-grow-basil-plants-1402624
• https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/herbs/basil/harvesting-basil-seeds.htm
• https://www.southernliving.com/food/kitchen-assistant/types-of-basil
• https://howtoculinaryherbgarden.com/types-of-basil/
• https://www.tasteofhome.com/collection/types-of-basil/
• https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-basil
• https://www.halfbakedharvest.com/20-minute-garlic-basil-brown-butter-pasta/
• https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/basil-tomato-grilled-cheese/
• https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/rich-tomato-soup-pesto
• https://www.rover.com/blog/can-my-dog-eat-basil/

Cymbopogon nardus, often known as citronella grass, is a native grass of Sri Lanka and a significant producer of the essential oil citronella. This powerful oil is extracted through the labor-intensive steam distillation technique. It is sought after for its capacity to ward off mosquitoes. However, you don’t need to distill it to get the bug-repelling effects. If you live in USDA growth zones 9 or 10, you can grow citronella grass in your backyard. Grow this grass as an annual or in a pot that you may bring indoors to overwinter if your temperature is cooler.

Citronella is a tall, quickly expanding grass that releases a distinct citrus aroma when crushed. It repels mosquitoes and other insects. Citronella grass serves as an excellent aesthetic in addition to deterring bothersome insects that could ruin your backyard barbecue. This plant can develop into a big focal piece up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet broad. Lance-shaped grass blades and light brown, spiky flowers are features of citronella, which blooms from summer through fall.

Citronella grass

Citronella grass, also known as Cymbopogon nardus and Cymbopogon winterianus, is a clump-forming perennial aromatic grass indigenous to Asian nations like Sri Lanka India, Burma, and Indonesia.

Citronella oil is the essential oil obtained from the citronella plant’s aerial sections. It is frequently used to ward off insects. Because of its antibacterial qualities, it is also found in candles, soaps, and cleaning products.

Citronella vs lemongrass

Lemongrass (Cymbopogon citratus) and citronella grass (Cymbopogon nardus) are frequently mistaken. Despite having a similar appearance, it’s vital to tell these two ornamental kinds of grass apart since lemongrass is edible, but citronella grass isn’t. Only citronella will work if you want to keep mosquitoes at bay.

Look at the color of the foliage to determine whether a plant is a lemongrass or citronella grass. There are no other colors at all in the lemongrass. Contrarily, citronella grass has reddish-tinted pseudo-stems and overlapping leaves that create a stem-like base.

Planting citronella

Citronella grass is only perennial in warm climates since its hardiness limit is 32 F. This grass requires a lot of water and sunlight regardless of where you live and whether you plant it in the ground or a pot. To stop the growth of undesirable seedlings in the garden, you might choose to remove the seed heads after flowering if you decide to plant outdoors.

Light

The most fantastic places for citronella grass to flourish are sunny climates with afternoon shade. The vegetation might burn from too much direct sunlight.

Soil

The secret to cultivating healthy citronella grass is a well-draining soil. Since this plant requires a lot of water, having soil that drains effectively will help avoid issues like root rot. Although it grows best in moist, loamy soil, this grass is highly adaptable to other soil types. It may thrive in a range of environments.

Water

Citronella grass requires a lot of watering because it is native to humid climates with regular rains. Depending on the conditions, you might need to water your lawn daily.

For instance, keeping your citronella grass indoors in a container will result in reduced humidity levels and less soil from which your plant can absorb moisture. You will need to water daily in this scenario. You won’t need to water as frequently if your grass is planted outside in a humid atmosphere. As a result, the amount of rainfall and the environment’s humidity levels will affect how often you should water your plants.

Humidity and temperature

In USDA hardiness zones 10 to 12, citronella grass can be grown as a perennial; however, many people plant it as an annual in other zones. Citronella grass, however, cannot endure the extreme cold for an extended period. It cannot survive temperatures lower than 32 F.

Try keeping your citronella grass in a pot and bringing it inside before the first frost if you want to keep it alive but reside in a region with long, cold winters. Place the freshly cut grass 3 inches or less above the soil line in a sunny area or under grow lights. Your plant can overwinter inside your cozy house, where it will grow large and gorgeous by the time spring arrives. Citronella grass enjoys wetness and does best in damp environments.

Fertilizer

For citronella grass, a nitrogen-rich fertilizer is ideal. For the most excellent results and to promote healthy development, fertilize in the spring since it only requires it once a year.

Propagating

Citronella grass grows in clumps, so the best and simplest approach to multiply this plant is to divide it in the spring:

• Cut through the plant and its root system where you want to split it with a sharp shovel or spade.
• Move the separated plant’s roots gradually away from the parent plant.
• Where necessary, add soil to the parent plant.
• Change the placement of your divided citronella grass, and give it regular waterings.

Potting and repotting

Growing citronella grass in a pot makes it simple to move the plant as needed or bring it indoors during the colder months.

Even young plants require a sizable container due to the citronella grass’s incredible size and fast growth. You should typically start your citronella grass in a gallon-sized container, depending on the size of the plant you buy.

Make sure your pot includes a drainage hole to avoid excessive water retention. Place your potted grass in a spot that gets some afternoon shade and is sunny. Potted plants require frequent watering, so be sure to water them frequently.

It’s time to repot the citronella grass when you discover it has outgrown its current location over time. To do this, tip the pot on its side and slowly remove the grass. With a hand spade, you can break up the soil around the edges, but be careful not to pull on the foliage, which will shatter. After releasing the plant, repot it in a larger container with good potting soil and give it some water.

Citronella oil

A naturally occurring insect and animal repellant, citronella oil is extracted from two types of grass. It is yellow to brown and smells floral or grassy. Numerous ingredients make up the citronella oil. By grass variety, the precise makeup changes. However, citronellol, citronellal, and geraniol make up most of the mixture. Citronella oil is frequently used as a flavor in foods and beverages. The Food and Drug Administration has designated it as a food additive that is Generally Recognized as Safe (GRAS).

The United States first registered citronella oil in 1948. It is presently on American soil. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA), pesticides have the least risk.

Benefits of citronella oil

Citronella has been utilized for several reasons for ages. Here are some of the benefits of using citronella oil.

Insect repellent

For citronella to work as a mosquito repellent, you must reapply it frequently. It could offer protection for up to three hours if mixed with vanillin. According to studies, it is less effective than DEET at repelling mosquitoes.

Antifungal agent

It appears that citronella oil has potent antifungal properties. In some circumstances, daily reapplication may be necessary to keep fungal infections under control.

Although it possesses antibacterial characteristics, it is not as powerful as some other essential oils at eliminating a wide variety of bacteria and germs.

Wound healing

The antifungal and anti-inflammatory characteristics of citronella oil may aid in accelerating wound healing. More research on humans is necessary to ascertain its efficacy, as much hasn’t been done in this field.

Physiological effects of inhalation

The effects of breathing in citronella, lavender, and rosemary essential oils were examined in a 2001 study. Researchers discovered that rosemary stimulates the brain while lavender has a calming impact. Contrarily, citronella produced a more nuanced in-between result. According to the authors, each person may experience citronella’s effects differently.

How to use citronella oil

The uses for citronella oil are numerous. Here are a few ideas.

Spray

An insect repellent spray can freshen up a space or apply directly to your skin. Here’s how you can make a spray with citronella oil:

1. Fill a glass spray bottle with water and citronella oil. It is suggested to have 10 to 15 drops of essential oil for each ounce of water.
2. Essential oils don’t dissolve in water. Therefore this step is optional. Think about using a dispersion agent like soluble in your solution.
3. Before spraying, give the bottle a good shake.

You will need to reapply citronella oil more frequently if you’re using it as an insect repellent because it has a shorter duration of efficacy than repellents like DEET.

Diffuser

To spread a scent over a space, use a diffuser. You might want to employ this technique, like the spray application, to deter insects or impart a pleasing aroma to a room.

Typical diffusers include a specific set of instructions. Ensure you carefully follow the package directions if you want to use citronella oil in a diffuser safely.

Massage oils and creams

You can also add citronella oil to oils and lotions for topical uses. Applying citronella oil may aid fungus and germ control on the skin and wound healing.

Before applying essential oils to the skin, always dilute them in a carrier oil.

Here’s how to prepare a massage oil or lotion using citronella.

How to prepare massage oil:

• Citronella oil should be diluted with a carrier oil, such as jojoba or coconut oil.
• For a 2.5 percent dilution, it is advised to use 15 drops of essential oil per ounce of carrier oil.
• You might want to use a one percent solution if you have sensitive skin (6 drops per ounce of carrier oil).

Cream or lotion preparation:

• Dilute citronella oil in an unscented cream or lotion.
• A 0.5 to 1 percent dilution is recommended for sensitive skin and a 1 to 2.5 percent dilution for normal skin (6 to 15 drops per ounce) (3 to 6 drops per ounce).

Safety tips

To use citronella oil safely, abide by the following recommendations:

• Always carefully dilute citronella oil before usage. Never apply citronella oil to your skin undiluted.
• Because they are so potent, essential oils can be dangerous to eat. Keep pets and children away from citronella oil.
• Avoid ingesting citronella oil.
• Always use citronella oil in a well-ventilated area as aromatherapy. Think about any children or animals that may be breathing in the aromatherapy. Certain essential oils might be harmful.
• Before using citronella oil, see your doctor if you’re pregnant, nursing, or taking any prescription drugs.

Are there any side effects?

Citronella oil may irritate or trigger allergies in certain people. The area may then develop redness, blotchiness, itchiness, or swelling.

Before applying citronella oil topically, test a small area of your skin with some diluted citronella oil. Avoid using citronella oil or items that contain it if you experience a reaction.

Although citronella oil hasn’t been linked to anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction, it’s still wise to be aware of the symptoms because it’s a medical emergency. Watch out for:

• difficulty breathing
• wheezing or coughing
• swollen throat
• red rash
• tightness in the chest
• nausea
• diarrhea

Sources:

• https://traditionalgardening.com/citronella-grass-vs-lemongrass/
• https://bestbeebrothers.com/blogs/blog/lemongrass-vs-citronella-what-fights-mosquitoes-the-best
• https://www.gardeningchannel.com/citronella-grass-vs-lemongrass/
• http://npic.orst.edu/factsheets/citronellagen.html
• https://www.thespruce.com/citronella-grass-plant-profile-5119502
• https://www.healthline.com/health/citronella-oil