Basil has an extremely interesting history. It has been used historically as a token of love, an icon of hospitality, and as a passport for the deceased to enter paradise. In the Hindu culture, basil is seen as sacred because it is thought to be a favorite food of the Gods. Other traditions held basil in a different light. Europeans in the Middle Ages thought that basil would cause the spontaneous generation of “scorpions” in the brain by just smelling it after a doctor put basil under a moist rock and 2 days later a scorpion was found next to the rock. This plus the fact that it wouldn’t grow next to Rue (a common poison antidote) solidified the thought of basil being an “evil plant”. Basil is a powerhouse full of antioxidants and other amazing phytonutrients, so don’t let these tall tales fool you, basil should 100% be a part of your diet.

More info on the interesting history of basil

Varieties

Basil is in the mint family and like mint, there are several varieties of basil. To name a few… Sweet Basil the most common and an Italian classic for making pesto and for making Caprese salads. Sweet Thai Basil has an intensely rich aroma and is great with curries, fish, and salad. Holy Basil has a hint of mint and is often served on top of noodles. Cinnamon Basil is the least common and used for making tea and potpourri. Lime Basil has a tangy citrus taste and is favorited in Asian cuisine.

Basil is available all year round in stores, but it is best June through September.

How to Choose and Store

When shopping for fresh basil or picking from your own garden, look for vibrantly colored leaves.  Avoid leaves with dark spots or yellowing.

For storing fresh basil, wrap the basil in a damp paper towel and place it in the warmest spot in the fridge (top shelf or the door).  It will keep like this for up to 5 days. If you want to store it for a longer time, place basil in an ice cube tray and fill it with water, olive oil, or stock and store it in your freezer.  These cubes can then be easily added to any dish.

For dried basil, it should always be kept in an air-tight glass container in a cool, dark, dry place.  If stored properly, the dried basil will keep for about 6 months.

Nutrition
Basil contains flavonoids, such as orientin and vicenin, which have been found to protect cell structures and chromosomes from radiation and oxygen-based damage.  Basil is considered anti-inflammatory since it has a high level of eugenol, a volatile oil, which has been found to block the activity of the COX enzyme.  Many over-the-counter pain medicines also work by inhibiting the same enzyme.  Basil is also a concentrated source of energy-producing iron; bone-building calcium; heart-healthy potassium, magnesium, and fiber; and free-radical-scavenging vitamin A, vitamin C, and manganese. Basil has been shown to exhibit antibiotic properties by restricting bacteria growth.  This is thought to happen to due basils volatile oils such as eugenol, myrcene, limonene, and others.

Energetics

Basil is warm in temperature and pungent in flavor. Basil stimulates circulation, clears obstructions, and improves liver function. It helps to moisten the kidneys which then helps promote healthy fluids throughout the entire body. Basil also helps improve digestion, reduces mucous conditions, and expels parasites. Used in the treatment of cold disorders, especially cold-type asthma. Basil can help calm and focus the mind.

Mango Chicken Thighs with Basil-Coconut Sauce

Ingredients

• 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs (about 1 pound)

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 3 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tablespoon minced fresh ginger root

• 1/2 can or 1 can coconut milk (to preference)

• 1 medium mango, peeled and chopped

• 4 green onions, sliced

• 1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh basil, divided

• 1/4 cup miso paste

• 2 teaspoons Sriracha chili sauce

• 2 cups cooked jasmine rice

• 2 medium limes, quartered

Preparation
Sprinkle chicken with salt and pepper. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Brown chicken on both sides. Add garlic and ginger; cook 1 minute longer. Stir in coconut milk, mango, green onions, ¼ cup basil, miso paste and chili sauce. Cook and stir until sauce is slightly reduced and a thermometer inserted in chicken reads 170°, about 20 minutes. Sprinkle with remaining ¼ cup basil. Serve with rice and limes.

Source

https://www.tasteofhome.com/recipes/mango-chicken-thighs-with-basil-coconut-sauce/

Mateljan, George. The World’s Healthiest Foods: Essential Guide for the Healthiest Way of Eating. George Mateljan Foundation: Seattle, 2007. Print.

Pitchford, Paul. Healing with Whole Foods: Oriental Traditions and Modern Nutrition. North Atlantic Books: Berkeley, 1993. Print.