Basil

OCIMUM BASILICUM

Origin AFRICA AND ASIA

Active ingredient ESTRAGOL

MEDICINAL, RITUAL, CULINARY use

Basil has medicinal properties and is used to treat digestive and respiratory problems. In Afro-Brazilian communities, mothers-of-saints use the plant in baths and smokes for spiritual purification, an important practice in Candomblé and Umbanda. A symbol of fertility and prosperity in various cultures, basil was associated with witchcraft in medieval Europe, and women who used it were persecuted.

Other plants

References:

Oakshadow, Selene. "Basil: Magical Properties and How to Use It in Witchcraft," September 22, 2024. https://www.lancsgreenwitch.co.uk/2024/09/22/basil-magical-properties-and-how-to-use-it-in-witchcraft/.

Sullivan, Christopher. Herbs - Basil. College Seminar 235 - Food For Thought: The Science, Culture, & Politics of Food in Spring 2009. https://academics.hamilton.edu/foodforthought/our_research_files/herbs.pdf