Basil Beni’s

Staci loves having basil around – she swears by Trader Joe’s fresh basil sprigs because you can put them into a small cup filled with water and it will last you for longer than a while. Grab a couple leaves and throw into a fresh salad or in a sandwich, throw some into your panini or muddle to for an herb infused drink, chop and fuse into a quick bowl of soup or flavor some italian sauces for a more organic texture – and added fresh flavinoids!

Basil bene’s (benefits) quicklist:
Essential oil : of basil has been shown to inhibit the growth of several types of bacteria, many of which have become resistant to antibiotics. This essential oil has been found to inhibit growth of the widespread staphylococcus, enterococcus, pseudomonas, and e. coli bacteria, among others. Adding basil to your vinaigrette will both enhance the flavor, and ensure that the fresh salad greens are safe to eat – kind of an organic ‘anti-bac’ for your salad!

Vitamin A : Basil is also a good source of vitamin A, which helps to prevent damage to the cells by free radicals. Vitamin A also prevents free radicals from oxidizing cholesterol in the blood stream, preventing the cholesterol from building up in the blood vessels.

Vitamin C & Magnesium: Magnesium is also present in basil. This essential mineral helps the heart and blood vessels to relax, improving blood flow. Other nutrients found in basil include iron, calcium, potassium, and vitamin C.

Just a random gardening FYI – Basil repels white fly and makes a good companion to tomatoes, in the garden & the kitchen. Use 3 basil plants to each tomato plant. Happy organifying!

Click here to read more Ayuravedic holistic recipes using Basil