Basil- (Ocimum basilicum)
Basil is probably one of the most widely known kitchen herbs. A favorite in summer pestos, and tomato dishes for centuries, the origin of its name is debated. Some say it comes from the Greek basilikon, meaning "royal herb", others say it comes from the ferocious mythical beast the basilisk. It was a symbol of mourning for the Greeks and a token of love for the Romans. It was highly revered in India where it is considered sacred to the god Vishnu. Egyptians used basil in their embalming formulae. In folklore we find that Basil's stories are colorful.
-Place two fresh basil leaves upon hot coals, if they lie where you put them and burn quickly to ashes, the relationship in question will be harmonious. If, however, the leaves fly apart with fierce crackling then a disastrous future is in store.
-To know if your love is chaste or promiscuous, simply lay a sprig of fresh basil in their hand; it will immediately wither if the person is "light of love". Carry basil in your pocket or wallet to attract wealth, and present a new homeowner with a fresh basil plant for house protection and good fortune.
ce as a lettuce substitute on a sandwich. Basil is easy to grow. Needing warmth, full sun and abundant moisture. Soil should be rich in organic matter such as leaf humus. Seed germination occurs best at 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit. Most need supplemental fluorescent lights after sprouting to keep them from becoming leggy. Don't forget to fully harden them off before they go into the ground. In the garden Japanese beetles are a problem for all but the Lemon and Thai basils. Keep the bugs picked off if you want to harvest any of your bail for yourself. Keep the blooms pinched off as well to prevent the plant from going to seed and assuring best flavor. Harvest throughout the summer by pinching off outer leaves near a spot on the stem where new growth can develop. Watch for cool nights as a frost can take your entire crop in one unsuspected night. 
low-temp (not more that 85 degrees) dehydrator or hanging in very dry, warm area. Basil keeps for several days if you place it in a small jar of cold, fresh water, create a tent out of a plastic bag around it and store it in a cool (not cold) spot. Many cooks freeze their basil, chopped up and put into ice cube trays and then popped into a freezer bag for later use. Layering the leaves in a jar with coarse salt can also preserve Basil. Of course, turning it into pesto is certainly a tasty option. Freeze pesto or store in the refrigerator with a protective layer of olive oil floated on top.