Basil is an aromatic herb that is easy to grow and maintain. It has a number of uses both medicinally and magically. You can also use it in your cooking. i have listed below some of the important tips and uses for Basil.

Growing Basil:

This herb grows to be 18 to 24 inches tall. It requires full sun or light to flourish. It does best in well drained soil that is watered frequently. Basil loves nitrogen, so nutrients which are high in this are helpful. Basil grows best with regualr pruning. Frequent use in your cooking should do the trick, but the plant should be topped off just below the first set of leaves when the second set of leaves is grown. This will force the plant to become bushier and allows for a greater harvest. Basil should not be allowed to flower, because the taste and aroma change. When the flower spikes appear, simply pluck them off, leaving 1-2 inches growth.

Medicinal uses:

Basil has many medicinal uses, though one should never diagnose or treat their own illnesses. This is silly. Doctors train for years to learn to properly treat their patients and the use of these herbs for the following issues has not been evaluated by the FDA. Having said that, pregnant women should ask their doctor before ingesting any herbs. Use at your own discretion.

Many of the following items will call for an infusion. The process for doing this is detailed in another hub..

Make an infusion of Basil and drink warm or cold for:

Indigestion, Stomach cramps, Anxiety, Congestion.

For constipation, add basil to wine and drink.

For insomnia, rub the oil on your pillow

For Acne and Bug bites, Stings, rub on affected area

Basil is a mild antibacterial and can be used for small wounds, scrapes, and bites.

Magical Uses:

In Haiti, Basil is used to foresee the outcome of a relationship. Two basil leaves are burned on a piece of charcoal. If the two pieces crackle and shoot moisture then the relationship will be full of tumult. It the leaves fly apart then so will the people involved. If the leaves lie quietly and burn, then the relationship will have harmony.

Basil is good for attracting money. You can carry a piece of basil in your wallet or purse to encourage money flow in your direction. Basil can also be carried for protection from danger and harm.

Basil is also used in divination spells and rituals to aid in foresight and as a cleansing herb for areas, auras, and homes. It promotes balance.

Cooking:

Basil particularly tastes great with chicken or fish, vegetables and salads.