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Let us share some information with you about this popular herb:

Origin and characteristics

The origin of Basil is in India, although this herb is much more popular in dishes and recipes of Italy, mainly, and some countries of the South of Asia.

Basil is a very aromatic plant and its leaves are used commonly as a key ingredient in fresh salads, stews and soups.

Season

The most appropriate time to plant this herb in our country is between April and September, which means that the best season for consumption of basil would be from May to August.

Benefits

There is a number of surprising health benefits associated with eating basil:

• To combat the annoying outbreaks of pimples, basil could be an excellent ally. Try boiling some fresh basil leaves for approximately 10 minutes, once the mix had cooled down, dip a cotton ball and apply it over the areas affected twice a day.
•  Basil has been associated to the relieve of stress, thanks to the contain of phytochemicals. This chemical compound has been proven to lower one of the hormones that it is produced by our body when we are feeling tense, the name of the hormone is cortisol.
• For those days when we are suffering with a bad hangover, the best remedy for a quick relieve is a good plate of pasta al pesto. Basil is been considered to be good for a liver detox.

Cooking

As we mentioned above, you should try having pasta al pesto on those days when you are suffering with a bad hangover. This is why; we have decided to give you the recipe for a good pesto. Very easy!

Ingredients: 2 full cups of fresh basil leaves, 2 teaspoons of minced garlic, half a cup of grated parmesan cheese, half a cup of olive oil and three quarters of pine nuts.

Method: Mix the basil and the pine nuts in a food processor first and then add the garlic. Slowly add the olive oil while still using the food processor and then the parmesan cheese. Once everything is blended add a pinch of salt and grounded black pepper.