Basil: A herb that works for everything

Basil is a herb that can be grown in a pot and garden. And it is worth doing because of its taste, smell and healing properties.

Basil is an annual plant. There are many varieties of basil, which differ in color and shape. That is why in the garden we can grow green and maroon basil, in the form of shrubs and spheres. The best known is green basil used in the preparation of spaghetti.

However, it is also worth mentioning other varieties of basil - with lemon flavor or cinnamon aroma, which are used in the production of liqueur. In addition, we can enjoy fresh basil all year round, without even having a garden. We can successfully grow basil in a pot.

Basil on a flower bed ...

All basil varieties like sunny and secluded places. Basil preferably grows in humus, non-acidified garden soil, rich in nutrients and water. It requires a supply of mineral fertilizers. Like all thermophilic plants, basil is best grown from seedlings. We can buy or grow seedlings ourselves, sowing seeds at home or at the inspectorate in early March. Basil grows up to 30–60 cm in height. Basil blooms from July to September.

... and basil in a pot

We can buy fresh basil all year round in pots. Although it is better to buy it in garden stores than supermarkets, there will also be those that offer good quality herbs. It's worth a try. In order to enjoy the purchased basil for longer, it is worth replanting it to a pot with new soil. After that, it is enough to provide light (as much as possible) and water - the soil in the pot should be constantly moist.
In spring, we can also sow basil in a pot and try to grow it ourselves.

Note: Remember not to remove the basil leaves, but to remove the tops. If the plant only has time, it will thrive in this place. Therefore, it is worth having at least two basil bushes and using them alternately, giving them time to "regenerate".

The use of basil

Basil gives off a strong spicy aroma because it contains many biologically active compounds, including tannins, saponins, oil, flavonoids and mineral salts. Apart from its taste and aromatic qualities, basil also has numerous medicinal qualities. Aromatic oils obtained from basil are used in aromatherapy and are valued for their relaxing and anti-depressant effects.

Basil oil, inhaled after a hard day, allows you to relax and relieve fatigue. Fresh basil leaves or juice accelerate skin regeneration and soothe the effects of mosquito bites. A decoction of basil used externally repels insects such as mosquitoes.