Synonym:
Ocimum basilicum ( Common Basil, Sweet Basil, Spanish: Albahaca, Albahacar/Alboharcar, Albácar; Maya: Kha-kal-tun), Ocimum basilicum var. purpurascens (Dark opal basil), Ocimum basilicum var. citriodorum (Lemon basil), Ocimum basilicum var. minimum (Bush basil, Greek basil), Ocimum sanctum (Holy Basil, Hindi: Tulsi)

Parts used:
Leaves, flowering tops, essential oil. Medicinally, it has many of the same properties as other mint species, demonstrating an antimicrobial effect. The essential oil has been found to have antibacterial, antiyeast, and insecticidal action.
Researchers have found that basil can kill some intestinal parasites and that the seeds and oil have mild antibiotic effects.

Habitat:
Basil is one of the most popular herbs grown in the world. It is native to Asia (India, Pakistan, Iran, Thailand and other countries) and can be found growing wild in tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. Because of its popularity, basil is often referred to as the "king of the herbs".

Description:
Native to India, Afghanistan, and Pakistan, basil is a strongly aromatic annual growing to about twenty to thirty inches in height. Tulsi has erect, herbaceous, much-branched, softly hairy annual, long, thin leaves, possessing many essential oil gland sacks, flowers are purplish or crimson in closedly whorled racemes. Tulsi has shiny oval leaves; a square stem; and small white, pale green, or purple-red flowers in whorls. There are at least 150 varieties, of Tulsi which is member of the mint family grown around the world for their distinctive flavour and essential oil. Each variety of basil differs in height, colour of foliage, and taste. Of the six common varieties of basil found in the US, sweet basil and dwarf basil are the most popular. The leaves and flowering tops are gathered as the plant comes into flower. Indian varieties of Tulsi are Sri tulsi, green in color, is the most common, and Krishna tulsi has purple leaves.

Basil has several name derivations and beliefs associated with it. The comon name basil may be derived from the Greek words basileus meaning "king." or basilikon meaning "royal." A Latin word, basiliscus, refers to "basilisk" a mythical fire-breathing dragon that was so repulsive it could kill with just a glance. According to Roman legend, basil is the antidote to the venom of the basilisk. The botanical name Ocimum is derived from the Greek meaning "to be fragrant". In the 1600's, the English used basil as a flavoring in their food and also as an insecticide. It was hung in doorways to ward off flies and other unwanted pests (evil spirits). Italians used basil as the sign of love. A pot of basil placed on the balcony meant that a woman was ready for her suitor to arrive. And, if he brought a sprig of basil, she would fall in love with him. It was also worn by a courting young man to signal to a woman that he had serious intentions. In India, Hindus believed that if a leaf of basil was buried with them, it would get them into heaven, thus the popularity of holy basil. Basil was also sacred to the Gods in India, Krishna, and Vishnu. In America, basil has been grown for over 200 years. It was air dried or preserved in layers of salt and kept in earthenware crocks.

To harvest, remove terminal growth whenever four sets of true leaves can be left on the plant. This encourages bushier growth and increased yield. For best foliage flavor, cut before flowering. Leaf flavor changes after flowers open. After cutting, wash and pat leaves dry. Use immediately or store in perforated plastic bags in the refrigerator. When drying the leaves, harvest early in the day but after dew has dried. Spread leaves on screens or loosely bundle and air dry. Warm air circulation (less than 130°F) aids color retention. Sun dried leaves tend to be brownish in color.

Tulsi in Indian Tradition
The Holy Basil plant from which the oil is distilled has been revered in India for thousands of years. It has a special place in the courtyard of Hindu families. The daily routine of many families is centered around this plants worship. When one begins to investigate its therapeutic and medicinal properties in indigenous systems of medicine, then it is easy to see why the plant is considered so special. The sages and seers of ancient times were keen to instill in people's hearts appreciation for the healing virtues to be derived from plants. Among the many botanical treasures with which the country was blessed they discovered several that had a wide range of applications for curing common illness's or preventing diseases altogether. Holy Basil was one that was at the top of their list as it could easily be cultivated in a wide range of climates and filled the surrounding atmosphere with a type of charged aroma which was in itself an elixir of the finest quality. This coupled with the rich inner world that often is part of the Eastern heart and mind, brought this plant into a world of symbolic imagery which is a delight to read about.

The following episode was written by Huyler as he witnessed Tulsi worship in an Indian home. It conveys the intimate relationship the Hindu has with Tulsi, and it teaches, through exquisite example, how we may worship Her.
"'O Tulsi, you who are beloved of Vishnu, You who fulfill the wishes of the devout, I will bathe You. You are the Mother of the World. Give me the blessings of Vishnu.'
The high, cracked voice of Manjula pierces the damp predawn hush. Joining her voice, other women also sing the praises of the Goddess. They all kneel before a meter-high terracotta planter shaped like a miniature temple adorned with sculptures, and containing a green-leafed Tulsi. Rising to her feet, Manjula pours holy water from a small, brightly polished brass pot into the cupped palm of her right hand and sprinkles it upon the leaves of the bush. Her expression is one of adoration but also one that portrays many years of close association, of friendship. For Manjula, the Goddess is incarnate in this herb, representing the duty and dedication, the love, virtue and sorrow of all women. She is a link to Manjula's own soul.
"Manjula's actions are repeated by the other women. Beneath their feet are designs of flowers and conch shells painted directly onto the ground with white rice powder and sindur (vermilion). Placing the brass pot on the ground amid the paintings, Manjula lights camphor incense in a clay pot and waves the clouds of sweet smoke over and around the bush and its container. Holding a clay lamp filled with lighted ghee in her right hand, she rotates it in a large circle three times in front of the tulsi plant. Bowls of fruit (bananas, apples, guavas and the meat of dried coconuts) and hibiscus and marigold flowers are placed on the ground before the terracotta. "Incense sticks are lit as Manjula once again presses her hands together in reverence, singing:
'O Tulsi! Within your roots are all the sacred places of the world. And inside your stem live all the Gods and Goddesses. Your leaves radiate every form of sacred fire. Let me take some of your leaves that I may be blessed.
' With her right hand clasped around the stem of the small bush, she shakes it gently, causing three leaves to flutter to its base. Thanking the Goddess, she places a single leaf between her palms and prostrates herself before the planter. After lying in this posture of absolute supplication for several minutes, Manjula again kneels before the Tulsi shrine and lovingly asks the Goddess if she may be allowed to dress Her. Taking a length of red cotton cloth from a basket, she wraps it around the bush. Then she places bright red hibiscus flowers in the upper leaves and hangs garlands of marigolds around the stem and the planter. Culminating the ceremony, Manjula puts the tulsi leaf in her mouth, taking into her body the spirit of the Goddess. Followed by the other women, she walks seven times around the elaborately sculpted planter, chanting:
'O Goddess Tulsi, You who are the most precious of the Lord Almighty [Vishnu], who live according to His Divine Laws, I beseech you to protect the lives of my family and the spirits of those who have died. Hear me, O Goddess!'
"As the first rays of the rising sun hit the tulsi's top leaves, the ritual has ended. Every morning and every evening of the year, Manjula prays to Tulsi at the shrine on the doorstep of her house, but that worship is usually simple and straightforward, entailing sprinkling the bush with holy water, adorning it with a few hibiscus blossoms, and shaking down a few leaves to eat as part of her prayers. This morning's elaborate ritual celebrates the first day of Kartika (November), a month particularly sacred to Vishnu and his Goddess-consort Tulsi. By caring for and honoring this sacred bush, Manjula creates a bond with the Goddess. Representing honor, virtue and steadfast loyalty, this humble bush of herbal leaves is the archetype of Hindu femininity, revered by men and emulated with empathy by women. She is Tulsi, Mother of the World."

These are some of the common basils:

Common name	Latin name	Description
Sweet Basil	Ocimum basilicum	Most common type grown. White flowers. Bright green, 2 to 3 inch long leaves. Erect habit. Clovelike scent.
'Genovese' Basil	Ocimum basilicum 'Genovese'	An Italian strain, regarded as the best variety for pesto and garlic dishes. Dark green leaves up to 2 inches long. Slow to bolt. Erect habit.
Bush or Greek Basil	Ocimum basilicum minimum	Dwarf varieties with very small, less than 1/2 inch long, pungent leaves. White flowers. Plants are excellent for edging or containers. Flavor is preferred by many chefs. Varieties like 'Fine Green,' 'Green Bouquet,' and 'Spicy Globe' are widely available.
Purple Basil	Ocimum basilicum 'Purpurascens	Grown for their ornamental foliage as well as their 'culinary uses. Soft lavender flowers. Same shape and size leaf as sweet basil. 'Opal,' 'Purple Ruffles,' and 'Red Rubin' are excellent selections.
Lettuce-leaf Basil	Ocimum basilicum crispum	Large, wide leaves. Flavor is less pronounced than other green basils, sometimes preferred for salads or sauces. Common varieties include 'Mammoth,' 'Napoletano,' and 'Green Ruffles.'
Scented Basil	Ocimum basilicum odoratum	These basils possess flavors reminiscent of other plants. Cinnamon, lemon, and licorice or anise basils all fit in this category. They can be used in recipes where a touch of a different flavor is desired. Often used in fruit preserves or in custards and sorbets.
Holy Basil	Ocimum canum or Ocimum sanctum	Leaves are small and fuzzy with a sweet, clove-like fragrance. Violet or white flowers. Used in some religious ceremonies. Not highly suited for culinary uses.
Camphor Basil	Ocimum kilimandscharicum	Has a strong, medicinal scent. Gray-green foliage. Not used for culinary purposes.
Peruvian Basil	Ocimum micranthemum	Has a somewhat medicinal, sweet flavor though it can be used in cooking. Sparse flowering.
Thrysiflora Basil	Ocimum thrysiflora	Grown for its ornamental seed head. Forms a triangular shaped plant with a strong V shaped branching habit. The seed head is a mound of purple flowers.

Constituents:
(a) Basil is a good source of beta carotene, calcium, vitamin C. Basil contains volatile oil (1% including estragol, linalool, eugenol, methyl chavicol and small quantities of methyl cinnamate, cineole, and other terpenes), tannins, basil camphor, flavonoids.
(b) Holy Basil contains volatile oil (1% including eugenol, methyl chavicol, methyl eugenol, caryophyllene), flavonoids (apigenin, luteolin), triterpene: urolic acid

Medicinal actions and uses:
Basil has many uses, the most common of which is its culinary use. As a fresh herb, it is used to flavor foods such as vegetables, poultry, and fish. It is famous for use in Italian dishes such as pesto. Basil is commonly preserved in vinegar or olive oil and adds a delightful flavor to both for salad dressings. It is also used for flavor in jelly, honey, tea, and liquor. Basil can also be used dried. The flowers of basil are also edible and can be an attractive addition to salads and other dishes.

Besides its edibility, basil is an aromatic herb and is often used in potpourri and sachets. The cosmetic industry uses basil oil in lotion, shampoo, perfume, and soap. As an ornamental in the flower garden, basil has attractive foliage and flowers.

Key medicinal actions of basil include antidepressant, antiseptic, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, antispasmodic, carminative, febrifuge, expectorant, prevents vomiting, stimulates the adrenal cortex, soothes itching, tonic and key medicinal action of holy basil/Tulsi include antispasmodic, analgesic, adaptogenic, anti-inflammatory, lowers blood pressure and blood sugar levels and reduces fever

1-2: Leaves are diaphoretic, antiperiodic, bronchitis, gastric & hepatic disorders etc. A tea prepared with the leaves of O. sanctum is commonly used in cough, cold, mild, indigestion, diminished appetite and malaise. Anthelmintic, deodorant, stimulant, anti-inflammatory, cardiotonic, blood purifier, useful in skin diseases, antipyretic particularly in malarial fevers. Externally applied on chronic non healing ulcers, inflammation, skin disorders, useful in nausea, pain in abdomen, worms, allergic rhinitis, all types of cough, respiratory disorders. It acts as a powerful mosquito repellent.

The oil is reported to possess anti-bacterial and insecticidal properties. It inhibits the in vitro growth of Mycobacterium tuberculosis and Micrococcus pyogenes var. aureus. It has marked insecticidal activity against mosquitos although it is not comparable to that of pyrethrum; the mosquito repellent activity lasts for 2 hrs. The oil from the green type is active against Salmonella typhosa. Ether and alcohol extracts of leaves are active against Escherichia coli." "The plant is used as a pot-herb; leaves are used as condiment in salads and other foods. It is also reputed to have medicinal properties. The juice of leaves possesses diaphoretic, antiperiodic, stimulating and expectorant properties; it is used in catarrh and bronchitis, applied to the skin in ringworm and other cutanous diseases and dropped into the ear to relieve earache. An infusion of the leaves is used as a stomachic in gastric disorders or children. A decoction of the root is given as a diaphoretic in malarial fevers. The seeds are mucilaginous and demulcent, and are given in disorders of genito-urinary system."

"Leaves boiled with warer are prescribed for cold and stomach disorders. The leaf juice is given for skin diseases internally as well as externally. The decoction of the leaves along with the tubers Orchis latifolia is considered a nourishing drink for old and weak people. Aphrodisiac virtue has been attributed to the root where powdered root with clarified butter (ghee) is prescribed. Seeds made into a paste with milk is considered a harmless preparation for the stomach troubles of infants and small children. In Ayurveda Ocimum tenuiflorum is used in "Surasadi Phanta" for cold and influenza. Plant is not much used in Unani system.

Traditional Uses:
Today, basil is used mainly as a culinary herb. Its medicinal value is not as widely appreciated in the Western world.
Basil has been used to treat a variety of conditions, including the following: anxiety and tension, congestion, coughs, colds, colic, constipation, cuts and abrasions, diarrhea, digestive disorders, dysentery, fevers, flatulence, headaches and migraines, indigestion, insect bites and stings, menstrual cramps, muscle tension, nerve pain, nervousness, sinusitis, sore throats, tiredness and lethargy.

When inhaled in steam, it relieves nasal congestion.

Basil seeds contains mild antibiotic substances that, when used as a poultice, helps prevent skin infections and promotes the healing of minor skin wounds. Basil is also used in some skin ointments and promoted as a treatment for acne.

The tea is said to be relaxing, and, when taken in the evening, helps to promote sleep.

Chewing a couple of leaves before a meal helps to stimulate the appetite; and a tea taken after a meal promotes digestion by increasing the flow of gastric juices, while reducing gas and bloating.

In Chinese medicine, basil is used for disturbances in renal function, gum ulcers, and as a hemostyptic both before and after birth.

In Ayurvedic medicine, the juice is recommended for snakebites; as a general tonic; and for chills, coughs, rheumatoid arthritis, anorexia, skin problems, amenorrhea and dysmenorrhea, malaria, and earaches, but mainly used in the cases of fever. A classic recipe advocates mixing Holy Basil, black pepper, ginger, and honey to prevent infection and to control high fevers.

Since Holy Basil has the ability to lower blood pressure, it is thought to have an affinity for the heart, as well as helping the body to adapt to new demands and stresses.

Holy Basil is used to reduce blood sugar levels as well as relieving fevers, bronchitis, asthma, stress, and canker sores. Research into its ability to reduce blood sugar levels has gone on for several decades, and is proving useful in some types of diabetes. Indian research has shown that the herb has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and fever-reducing properties, as well as inhibiting sperm production.

In Belize, it is used to bring on delayed menstruation and to relieve painful periods, as well as to treat earaches.Elsewhere it is used as an anti-inflammatory, for stomach-aches, intestinal parasites, and to lower bloodsugar levels.

Mexicans use it to treat "susto", or gastrointestinal blockage. It is also used to ward off evil spirits, and as a cleansing agent.

Cautions in using basil/Tulsi:

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