The Encyclopedia of Crystals, Herbs, and New Age Elements: An A to Z Guide to New Age Elements and How to Use Them - Adams Media 2016

Basil
The Power of Herbs: Herbs and Spices

ORIGINS

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is an aromatic annual herb in the mint family that is native to Africa and Asia. The word basil comes from the Greek basilikos, meaning “royal.” A variant called holy basil, or tulsi, is native to India and plays an important role in the Hindu religion.

HISTORY/LORE

In ancient Greece, basil was associated with grief and mourning. In the sixteenth century in Europe it was believed that scorpions were attracted to basil and that a basil sprig left under a pot containing a basil plant would turn into a scorpion. A French doctor once wrote that smelling basil would cause a scorpion to grow in the brain.

USES

Healing Uses: As a tea, basil eases stomach pain, cramps, indigestion, and constipation, and it also stimulates lactation in nursing mothers. The French herbalist Maurice Mességué recommends basil for restlessness and migraines. The herb also has antibacterial and antifungal properties (use the oil for best results in these cases).

Magical Uses: Basil is useful in love spells and love divination. To divine the future of a romantic relationship, place two basil leaves on a live coal. If they remain where you placed them and turn to ash quickly, the relationship will be harmonious. If they crackle and move, the relationship will be rocky. Burn basil to cleanse a home of negativity. Given as a gift, basil brings good luck to a new home.

Personal/Spiritual Growth: Basil brings courage and strength to those who are fearful and helps to clear clouded judgment. It also eases anxiety and improves communication. Use holy basil for prayer and meditation or to enhance memory. Place basil in bathwater to get over an old love or to invite new love in. See the basil entry in Chapter 4 to learn about the benefits of basil essential oil.