BASIL
Ocimum basilicum

History and Folklore
Probably originating in the East, Basil (Tulasi) is considered sacred in India, where it is grown around the temples and placed on the altars. Although it arrived in the West in the days of antiquity, the ancients seemed to have felt ambivalent towards its use. Invariably it is associated with demons, dragons and scorpions. Some say it protects against the effects of bites from such venomous beasts, whilst others claim that there is no hope for him who had eaten Basil and was unlucky enough to subsequently be stung by a scorpion. Others deem that scorpions could grow from chopped up basil, while Culpeper even claims that a scorpion would develop in the heads of those who merely smelled the herb too frequently.
Basil certainly had an ambivalent reputation. In Egypt it was associated with the cult of the dead and used in embalming rituals as well as laid on the chest of the deceased. Basil was also placed or grown on the grave. On the other hand Basil symbolized tragic love - 'love washed in tears', while in Italy girls decorated their hair with a sprig of the herb to signal their willingness to a potential suitor. It is said that Basil would only grow well if sown under a barrage of swearwords, which is why recent writers concluded that Basil is associated with hate. However, in the old days swearing was a kind of protection spell, in the same vein as we might say 'break a leg' to wish someone luck. Swearing, or saying the opposite to what was intended was a 'deception manoeuvre', thought to avert unseemly attention from the eyes of jealous demons by making a plant, animal or child seem worthless, so they could grow in peace, without becoming the target of envy. Basil is also associated with courage and with money magic, and in Central America it is used as magical wash/ cleansing lotion to attract benevolent spirits. See also Basil Essential Oil

Medicinal Uses:
Most of us are unaware of this rich folklore and magical history when we enjoy our tomato salad decorated with fragrant basil leaves. It is as spice that we are most familiar with it. As such, it adds not just flavour, but also its carminative benefits to a dish, dispelling nausea, flatulence and intestinal parasites. Therapeutically it is said to calm nervous excitement and depression and may be useful in states of anxiety and insomnia. Mothers appreciate it for its galactagogue properties. Externally it helps to soothe insect bites and acts as an insect repellent. Basil has proven antibacterial properties.

Magical Uses:
Sprinkled around the temple or house, or used in cleansing rites prior to ritual it will attract good spirits and give courage to the practitioner. Basil can be used in the last rite of passage to easy the journey of the soul to the Otherworld. It can also be used to confer courage to the novice during initiation rites. Basil is associated with money magic. Sprinkle the place of business or the till with basil oil or carry some leaves in your pocket to attract money. It can also be included in love philtres and potions to attract lovers, though the unions that ensue may be fiery and short-lived.

BOTANICALS:
Plants nourish and feed us, add spice to our life, bestow health and beauty, scent and colour and brighten our days. They mediate love, hope and gratitude; they clothe and cleanse us, they heal and soothe our bodies, minds and souls. They touch every aspect of our existence, from our daily sustenance to the air we breathe, to the keys to other dimensions. They are the alchemists that turn sunlight into the green force of life, continuously revolving, restoring, rebirthing through the cycles of time. They truly are the greatest gift of nature, yet also the one we most take for granted.

Star Child's range of botanicals derives from many regions and traditions of the world. We supply only the best quality herbs, using organically grown and sustainably harvested sources if available. The greater the demand for organic products the more readily they will become available. Your choice to buy and our commitment to supply organic herbs is part of the driving force that sows the seeds for a greener, healthier future.

USE:
There are dozens of ways in which herbs can be used. Many culinary herbs not only impart a great flavour but also have subtle effect on the digestive process. Other herbs are more medicinal than culinary and can be used as remedies, based on the wisdom of age old traditional plant knowledge. For more detailed information on the different types of preparations that can be made with herbs, please refer to the BOTANICALS USAGE section.

CAUTION
We support the notion of taking responsibility for one's own well being and thus strive to make all herbs available for use at your own discretion. It should be noted however, that not all herbs are safe to use in all circumstances. Special cautions may apply when suffering from certain medical conditions, when taking synthetic prescription drugs and during pregnancy. Research and familiarize yourself with any herb you intend to use and make sure you are aware of all special cautions that may apply. The information given here is based on thousands of years of traditional use. It is intended for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace a visit to a medical professional where this is necessary.

If symptoms persist or re-occur, or if you are suffering from a serious medical condition, or if you are presently taking prescription drugs, we recommend that you consult a qualified doctor or practitioner before attempting to help yourself. Look for a practitioner/doctor who you can trust and who is prepared to explore natural health alternatives with you.

Pregnancy is a very special time. If chosen wisely herbs can give tremendous support throughout the entire process. However, due to the vulnerability and sensitivity of the unborn child it is especially important to make sure that the herbs you are using are safe. (This also applies during the time of breast-feeding as all substances ingested by the mother are processed and passed on with the mother's milk). Many herbs may be useful during the latter stages of pregnancy or during labour, but could be dangerous during the first few months. Inform yourself - don't risk regret.