Basil is one of the most popular herbs grown in the world. It is native to Asia (India, Pakistan, Iran, Thailand and other countries) and can be found growing wild in tropical and sub-tropical regions of the world. Because of its popularity, basil is often referred to as the “king of the herbs”.
What country grows the most basil?
Overview of Global Basil Market
- Rank 1. 2021. China. $864.8M. Export Value.
- Rank 2. 2021. India. $414.5M. Export Value.
- Rank 3. 2021. Germany. $232.6M. Export Value.
- Rank 4. 2021. Egypt. $158.7M. Export Value.
- Rank 5. 2021. United States. $127.0M. Export Value.
- Rank 6. 2021. Spain. $108.1M.
- Rank 7. 2021. Poland. $103.8M.
- Rank 8. 2021. Canada. $85.5M.
Where does the best basil come from?
It is a tender plant, and is used in cuisines worldwide. In Western cuisine, the generic term “basil” refers to the variety also known as sweet basil or Genovese basil. Basil is native to tropical regions from Central Africa to Southeast Asia.
| Basil | |
|---|---|
| Family: | Lamiaceae |
| Genus: | Ocimum |
| Species: | O. basilicum |
| Binomial name |
Where is basil most commonly used?
This popular herb is used in a variety of Mediterranean and Asian dishes, ranging from creamy sauces to light, herbaceous salads and spicy curries. Ingredients that are complimented by the addition of basil include meats like chicken and beef, olive oil, eggs, tomatoes, and herbs like rosemary, thyme, and oregano.
Why is basil called holy?
It is originally from India and is used in Ayurvedic medicine as an “adaptogen” to counter life’s stresses. It is considered a sacred plant by the Hindus and is often planted around Hindu shrines. The Hindu name for holy basil, Tulsi, means “the incomparable one.” Medicine is made from the leaves, stems, and seeds.
Is basil in high demand?
The global basil leaves market is thriving due to increased demand for fresh herbs in a wide range of applications. Of them, food and pharmaceutical are key end-user industries showing significant demand in the market for basil leaves.
Is basil toxic?
Basil contains a chemical, estragole, which has caused liver cancer in laboratory mice. Children: Basil is LIKELY SAFE for children in food amounts. But larger medicinal amounts are POSSIBLY UNSAFE. Basil contains a chemical, estragole, which has caused liver cancer in laboratory mice.
Which basil has the best Flavour?
One of the most popular varieties, ‘Sweet’ basil has a full licorice flavor and spicy clove fragrance that’s just as nice when used fresh in salads, sandwiches, and wraps or added to pesto, sauces, and savory dishes.
What is basil called in India?
Tulsi
Basil also known as French Basil or Sweet Basil or Tulsi is an erect glabrous herb, 30-90 cm high is indigenous to India. The leaves of basil have numerous oil glands with aromatic volatile oil.
Why is basil so popular in Italy?
In Italy, basil was once known as a symbol of love. In ancient times it was believed that placing basil leaves on insect bites would draw out the poison. It is thought that Alexander the Great bought basil to the Greece in 350BC and it then spread to the rest of the Mediterranean region.
Is eating basil good for you?
Basil contains many vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants such as lutein, zeaxanthin, beta-carotene, and beta-cryptoxanthin. Many of basil’s health benefits come from these antioxidants, as well as its essential oils.
Is basil a Superfood?
And if that’s not enough to propel the beautiful basil leaf into superfood territory, basil can also help regulate diabetes, support liver function and detoxify the body as well as heal a regular tummy upset.
Can I eat basil leaves Raw?
The leaves are also commonly used in cooking, though some people eat the leaves raw. Holy basil tastes spicy and bitter. There are many ways to incorporate holy basil into your daily life. You can cook with it, take it in supplement form, or make a tea with it.
Does basil lower blood pressure?
Basil contains compounds, such as eugenol, that may help reduce blood pressure, according to animal studies.
Does basil leaves help in weight loss?
Since holy basil targets metabolic stress, it can also help with weight loss and cholesterol levels. Animal studies saw significant changes in rabbits’ fat molecules when they ate fresh holy basil leaves. They had lower “bad” cholesterol (LDL-cholesterol) and higher “good” cholesterol (HDL-cholesterol).
How profitable is basil?
According to Urbanagnews.com, fresh basil can sell for as much as $3 to $4 per ounce or $50 to $60 per pound.
How much is basil worth?
Basil is appealing to growers because of its consistent demand from consumers. Growers who produce basil during colder months are usually able to fetch higher prices when local outdoor crops are unavailable. In some areas of the country high end retailers sell basil for $3-$4 per ounce or $50-$60 per pound.
Where can I sell basil?
Another great way to sell your herbs is to sell them at the local farmer’s market. Farmer’s markets are a great way to bring lots of customers to your products. You might have to pay a fee for the space, but your chance of selling a large number of herbs goes way up.
Is basil good for kidneys?
Kidney Health
Basil leaves act as a kidney tonic by cleansing the kidneys and lowering uric acid levels, which is the root cause of kidney stones. Basil contains compounds like acetic acid which help in the expulsion of kidney stones via urine.
Does basil keep mosquitoes away?
As one of the most pungent herbs, I can easily see why basil makes the list as a natural mosquito repellent. It makes sense, because basil is known as the perfect companion plant to tomatoes to help keep bugs away.
Does basil make poop?
Basil (Ocimum basilicum) seed has been found to relieve constipation by acting as a bulk-forming laxative in one preliminary study.
Justin Shelton is a professional cook. He’s been in the industry for over 10 years, and he loves nothing more than creating delicious dishes for others to enjoy. Justin has worked in some of the best kitchens in the country, and he’s always looking for new challenges and ways to improve his craft. When he’s not cooking, Justin enjoys spending time with his wife and son. He loves exploring new restaurants and trying out different cuisines.