Basil

Basil (Ocimum basilicum) is ideal for drinking as a tea after dinner.  Famous for relieving indigestion, it is relaxing and soothing and rounds off a meal perfectly.

Basil is famous as a garden herb.  Originally  from India, it is now grown throughout the world.  Its name comes from the Greek Basileuς, meaning king -  it was originally discovered, the story goes, in the place where the Holy Cross was found by St Constantine.  In French it is known as  “L’herbe royale”.  In many cultures around the world it is strongly associated with making a safe journey to the afterlife.

Basil is also of great value to the living – as well as its traditional use for indigestion, it has shown to have strong antioxidant, anti-carcinogen, anti-viral and anti-microbial properties.

Most importantly for our purposes – it is a delicious, refreshing, warming tea.

To brew, place one heaped teaspoon of Basil per person in a warmed pot or Mug Infuser and add fresh boiling water.  Allow to steep for 4 minutes, or longer if preferred, then strain into mugs.

If you like Basil you may also like to try Sage.