Herb & Spice Companion

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HERB & SPICE COMPANION

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HEALTH BENEFITS

Fresh basil is a nutritional dynamo,

with anti-inflammatory, antibacterial,

and antioxidant powers that boost

the immune system, improve the

health of your heart and arteries, and

soothe stomach upset. The tasty herb

has also been shown to reduce stress

and symptoms of anxiety disorders.

BASIL

Ocimum basilicum

Flavors: sweet, spicy, and

peppery, with hints of clove, anise,

Mint

An ever-popular summertime herb, basil originated in India but is now grown in warm

climates throughout Europe, Asia, and the Americas. There are dozens of varieties to

try and countless ways to prepare them in cuisines from across the globe.

Sweet basil is most common in Western

cuisines, especially in Mediterranean

food, and other popular basils in

Western cooking include purple basil,

purple ruffles, cinnamon, lettuce, and

African Blue. Basil is a tender herb, so

its flavor won’t withstand high heats or

long cook times. If adding to a cooked

dish, do so at the very end of cooking or

just before serving.

In the Garden

Basil is an annual that makes a great indoor plant all

year-round, as long as the container has suitable drain-

age and is positioned in a sun-soaked windowsill.

Size: 1 to 2 feet tall

Container: 10 inches in diameter

Light: Full sun

Soil: Moist, rich, well drained

Plant: Seeds, seedlings, or transplants

BASIL VARIETIES

• African blue


• Bush basil


• Cinnamon basil


• Lemon basil


• Lettuce basil


• Licorice basil


• Purple ruffles basil

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