| Basil
is considered as the masculme herb because of its
pungency. It is more pungent than garlic. It has
been accredited loyal status among the herbs because
of its medicinal properties. It is extensively used
in Italy with tomato in almost all food preparations.
It is believed that Basil was origanated from India.It
requires warm shelter. The monasteries brought it
to the Europe during 1548. |
| The plant
: |
| It is hardy perennial
herb attaining 15 cm in height. The leaves are green
on the upper surface and on the lower surface purple
tinge is noticed. If the leaves are slightly bruised
delightful scent emanates. The stem is quadrangular |
| As it is hardy
plant no special attention is required. Plant at
22 cm apart between plants and rows. Weeding should
be done at regular intervals. When the plant attains
sufficient height pinch off the top shoots to induce
leaf formation and to prevent flower induction.The
land need not be moist throught the year Drv period
is essential between successive irrigation. |
| Harvest: |
| Harvest the plant
before the plant begins to flower. Harvest on a
dry day after the dew has dried off. Most of the
volitle oils are found on the underneath the leaf.
The leaves should be immersed with lukewarm water
before drying. The leaves are slimy to touch . |
| Drying |
Drying temperature
should not exceed human body temperature (98.4 F).
Dry in a dark airing cupboard with door partly opened
in a darkend corner of the green house. Spread the
leaf evenly under nylon net so as to allow ventilation.
When the material is dried leaves can be stripped
off to remove the leaves and pack in an tight containers.
Store the leaves in dark in air tight glass containers
. |
| FOOD |
| Used in all type
of foods in Italy. For the persons who cannot take
pepper due to pungency they can take a combination
of Basil,Parsely and Summer Savory. |
