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Everyday Magick Practical use of herbs, art, nature, candles and creativity to bring magick into everyday life.

 

 

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Knowing and using practical herbs for healing, cooking and magick.

Basil Picture

Basil
Ocimum basilicum
For Magick:   Basil has been used for ages in a variety of spells symbolizing such differing ideas as love and in some cultures hatred. Personally I am not into hatred spells so I prefer to use it more lovingly.   It has also been called Basil the Courageous and used aginst faintness of heart in times of strife.  You can see how this could work when you brush against a basil plant or crush some between your fingers.  It's spicy scent is very uplifting and definatley perks you up.   Adding basil to a flower bouquet is one of my favorite ways to enjoy basil's aromatic if not charming touch.

For Health:    One of the very best healing uses for basil is to rub the leaves on insect bites to relieve itching and inflammation.  Also since basil is in the mint family it is not surprising that a tea from the leaves is said to be a wonderful after dinner aid to indigestion.   The essential oil of basil is used for nervous exhaustion, mental fatigue and melancholy.  A few drops in the bath will elevate your spirits and you'll feel like you just might make it!

Cooking:   The most common use for basil is in the kitchen.  Tomato sauce and pesto have made basil famous.   But it's mildly peppery flavor with traces of mint and clove can be added to just about anything.   Fresh is the best but frozen and dried are also great.  Throw the leaves in salads, add them to mild vegetables, or try basil vinegars to name just a few ways to try this versatile herb.  Fresh basil is best stored in oil.
Click here for a Fresh Basil Pesto Recipe


I have two sweet little pots of basil in my kitchen to cheer me, brush up against, cut fresh for cooking or to dry when they get really bushy.  This green wonder can be dried very easily if you want to try and grow some yourself.  
To make quick-dried basil:
 

  • Lay some leaves on a paper towel in the microwave and cook for about 10 seconds at a time until they are dry.
  • History: Basil is actually a native herb of India, which seems odd because generally it is not used in Indian cuisine. It is now cultivated all over the world including France, Egypt, Italy, Greece, and many gardens in the US. The French call basil herbe royale. Italians still associate it with being a sign of love. It is said that the name is a derivative of basileus Greek for King.

    If you haven't already found the wonderful qualities of this versatile herb, give it a try! Or find a new use or recipe for it...I'm sure it won't disappoint you!

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