HERBS & SPICES

Basil Leaf Powder  1 lb. Bulk

Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum

Origin: Egypt

History:
Basil is an aromatic annual, native to tropical Asia and Africa and introduced into Europe in ancient times. The herb grows to a height of two to three feet and is now widely cultivated not only for its medicinal properties, but also for its culinary value as a flavoring agent. The high esteem in which this herb is held may be derived from its word origins.  Its name may come from the Greek basileus, meaning king, or the Latin basilicus, meaning royal. The Roman, Pliny, described its now-well-known benefits as a digestive that was effective in relieving flatulence and stomach cramps. Its properties had an almost spiritual reputation, as some cultures associated it with misfortune, while others regarded it as a love token or a powerful protector.  In ancient Egypt, the plant was used as an embalming herb, and it has been said that Basil was strewn in the tomb of Christ.  In the Caribbean and parts of Mexico, Basil was used to return a lover's roving eye and to attract money.  In India, Basil(tulsi ) is considered a sacred herb. Its divine essence is actually a disinfectant, and because it is used in almost every Hindu house, it protects the family.  In Ayurvedic medicine, Basil is widely used for snakebites and as a general tonic for chills, coughs, skin problems, and earaches.  Its chemical components include essential oils (including estragol, eugenol, lineol, linalol), tannins, vitamin C and beta-carotene.

Beneficial Uses:
Delicious to eat, Basil is an effective remedy for a variety of digestive and gastric disorders. It has been used to relieve flatulence, ease stomach cramps and nausea and to help stop vomiting. Basil promotes normal bowel function and will relieve constipation, while easing the "griping" pains associated with laxatives. As an antispasmodic, Basil has sometimes been used for whooping cough.  It is an expectorant that helps to ease dry coughs and bronchitis, and it relieves catarrh, the inflammation of mucous membranes. Basil has been recommended for the relief of headache. As an aromatic, Basil is considered a fine appetizer, and as a mild stimulant, it has also been used very effectively in cases of complete exhaustion. Its essential oil helps to allay mental fatigue and is said to be helpful as an antidepressant. Basil is an antiseptic.  Its antibacterial properties have been used to inhibit organisms that cause dysentery. Topically, Basil was applied to relieve fungal infections and as a poultice to draw the poisons from snakebites and insect stings. The essential oil of Basil may be added to massage oils for sore muscles. Nursing women may benefit from this gentle tonic that helps expel gas in the infant and increases lactation in the mother. Traditional herbalists claim that Basil helps bring on suppressed menses.

HERBS & SPICES

We offer a tremendous selection of bulk herbs and spices - over 550 botanicals from all over the world, including Certified Organic, medicinal, culinary, Chinese and Ginseng varieties.

SUPERIOR QUALITY CONTROL

We adhere to strict quality control procedures. Our raw materials are inspected upon receipt and again following processing and production. Quality assurance tests are conducted by experts in our in-house laboratory using the latest in equipment and techniques. As a direct importer and manufacturer, we have a commitment to maintain the integrity of our products through the entire production process.

KOSHER CERTIFIED FACILITY

We are a Certified Kosher facility, certified by "Kosher Certification Service" located in Los Angeles, CA. Most herbs and spices are kosher.

CERTIFIED ORGANIC HERBS & SPICES

Strongly committed to the organic industry since 1980, we stock one of the largest selections of organic herbs, spices and spice blends in the country. Our strict quality control program enables us to maintain the superior quality and integrity of our Certified Organic Herbs and Spices. Our facility and organic products are certified organic by Quality Assurance International. All organic products are organically grown in accordance with the National Organic Program. Products listed as Certified Organic (C.O.) are 100% organic unless otherwise noted.

PACKAGING

To preserve freshness, aroma and potency, our products are packaged in 1 lb. polyfoil, barrier seal bags which protects the contents from light exposure and moisture.