BASIL:
(Oncimum basilicum) The warm, spicy taste of this popular herb's leaf combines well with garlic, tomatoes, eggplant, and Italian dishes, Basil flavors vinegar, pesto sauce, and oil. The essential oil flavors condiments and liqueurs, and scents soaps and perfumes. Inhaling the essential oil refreshes the mind and stimulates a sense of smell dulled by viral infection. The infusion relieves gas and stomach pains. Reputadly abortive, it can help expel the placenta. A warming herb, it is used for colds and flu, constipation, vomiting, headaches, and menstrual cramps. Steep two teaspoons per cup of water for twenty minutes, take up to one and a half cups per day.

a)       Parts Used:  Leaf and stem

b)       Magical Use:  Burn basil to exorcise negativity from the home. To do a really thorough cleansing and protection of yourself and your home, also sprinkle a little basil in each corner of each room in the house and add to your bathwater. Basil is used to mend lovers' quarrels and brings good luck to a new home. The scent of basil causes sympathy between two people and so is worn to avoid major clashes. Basil Use it in rites of exorcism and in the ritual bath. Sprinkle to powder over the ara of your heart to promote fidelity. The scent brings happiness to the home and will protect you in crowds.

c)       Aromatherapy Use:  Bronchitis, Fatigue, Colds, Loss of Concentration, Migraine, Gout, Aches and Pains, Insect bites, Insect Repellent, Coughs, Migraine, Insomnia, Anxiety, Depression, Infectious Disease. Key Qualities: Restorative, Tonic, Antidepressant, Refreshing, Uplifting, Fortifying, Purifying, Clearing, Warming, Cephalic, Stupefying in excess.