Lemon Basil is a hybrid between basil (Ocimum basilicum) and American basil (Ocimum americanum). It has a wonderful lemon scent and used in many types of cuisines. It attracts butterflies and bees to your garden and a great companion in repelling mites and aphids. It is a good substitute for Lemon verbena and Melissa
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Botanical Family | Lamiaceae |
Approx. Shelf Life | 3 years |
Plant Parts | Fresh blossoms and leaves |
Note Classification | Top |
Method of Extraction | Steam Distilled |
Blends well with | Bergamot, clove bud, clary sage, geranium, lemon, lime, hyssop, eucalyptus, juniper, neroli, rosemary, marjoram, melissa and lavender. |
History: The leaves have a pronounced lemon scent and are prized in Arabian, Indonesian, Laotian, Persian and Thai cuisines. Dioscorides and Galen both did not think it fit for human consumption. In Egypt the fresh leaves were scattered on fresh graves and in India some leaves are placed on the bodies of the dead to serve as a key to heaven's gates. In Tudor times it served as a farewell present, small pots being presented to visitors upon departure. In Crete it served as a symbol for "love washed with tears". Here it was known as "Kiss-me Nicholas" and daring young girls would decorate their hair with it, wafting a fragrant hint to passing Nicks.
Characteristics: Basil oil is thin transparent fluid with light yellow to yellow-green color with aroma characteristic of Basil. A native of Africa and Seychelles, it is grown as popular culinary herb and has small white flowers. The essence is distilled from leaves and has light greenish yellow with sweet green overtones. The Basil oil derived is known for intensely fresh, sweet-spicy and vibrant aroma.
Clinical Studies:
Indications: Restorative, warming – mild sedative action. When combined with other oils like Thyme, it also acts as powerful antiseptic. It also finds application for the treatment of migraines, arthritis and paralytic conditions. It is also used to fight intestinal parasites and stimulate liver & pancreas.
Mode of Administration: It is used for inhalation , in baths and for massages. Having both cold & hot qualities, when it is used in bath or is smoothed over the body, it has invigorating effect that is very beneficial for sluggish skin & pepping up circulation.
Safety: Lemon Basil contains estragole a potentially carcinogenic and mutagenic essential oil. Do not use during pregnancy or use basil oil on small infants/children. Robert Tisserand recommends dermal application in low dilution less than 1.4%. Avoid in conjunction with diabetes medication.