HealthyPIG Magazine

Basil is a kind of herb in the mint family. It adds flavor to meals, and its nutrients may be beneficial to health. Sweet basil (Ocimum basilicum) plays an important role in many Mediterranean cuisines, especially Italian cuisine. It forms the basis of pesto sauce and adds a unique flavor to salads, pasta, pizza and other dishes. Indonesian, Thai and Vietnamese cuisines also feature this herb. In the diet, sweet basil can provide vitamins, minerals and a series of antioxidants. Its essential oils may also have medicinal value. Many grocery stores have sweet basil, while other varieties have different tastes and aromas. Another type of basil is tulsi, or holy basil (Ocimum santum). This plant plays a therapeutic role in Tamil and Ayurvedic medicines, which are mainly used in Southeast Asia. This is different from sweet basil. In this article, learn more about the health benefits and nutritional content of basil, and find some tips on how to incorporate it into your diet.