Saturday, 3 September 2016

5 interesting facts about Basil

Basil, basil leaves, Tulsi

1. Basil is native to India. However it was familiar to the ancient Greeks.

2. The name “Basil” comes from the Greek Basilikon Phuton which means “Royal/Kingly plant”.

3. There are over 160 varieties of Basil currently available including Genovese Basil, Thai Basil, Lemon Basil and Holy Basil.

4. When soaked in water, the seeds of several Basil varieties turn gelatinous and are frequently used in several Asian drinks like Faluda and Sharbat.

5. Basil is highly revered in several religions with Hinduism, Greek Orthodox and the Jewish faiths giving it a great deal of prominence. The ancient Egyptians and Greeks believed that placing Basil in the hands of the dead would open the gates of heaven!


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