Dried basil: application, useful properties and how to dry at home

Spicy varieties of basil have gained recognition in many countries due to their unusual aroma. Modern gardeners actively grow the plant in summer cottages, and real gourmets cannot imagine many dishes without the addition of dried basil. The spice is easy to care for and can be easily grown under various environmental conditions.

Description and types

Basil belongs to the flowering department and is distinguished by tetrahedral stems up to 60 cm high. The foliage of the plant has a rich purple or green color and an oval shape. The surface of the leaves and stem is rough.The plant contains an essential oil that gives a spicy aroma.

Breeders have bred more than 70 varieties of spices. Each variety has individual characteristics and a different appearance. Bushes can grow to a certain level, and the leaves of different species differ in shape and color. The most common varieties include lemon, allspice, cinnamon and common basil.

Composition and useful properties

The composition of the plant has a rich set of useful elements. Basil contains carotene, tannins, fiber and vitamin complex. It also contains mineral and vegetable components.

Any variety of basil is useful in that its use provides protection against viral and bacterial infections, normalizes sleep and improves digestion. The plant is used for lung diseases, flatulence and gastrointestinal diseases.

Benefits and contraindications

Green has gained popularity among gardeners due to a number of advantages. These include:

1. Versatility of use, which allows you to use vegetation in various areas of life.
2. Could grow outdoors, in greenhouses or at home.
3. Resistant to diseases with basic care.
4. Green tolerates neighborhood in the beds with other herbs and vegetables, so planting in the same greenhouse with other crops is allowed.

Despite the benefits of basil, you need to use it in moderation so as not to get poisoned. The plant contains mercury compounds, so it is contraindicated for pregnant women and young children.

How to dry at home?

You can dry fresh herbs in several ways, which differ from each other in technology and the time for obtaining the finished spice. Before choosing the appropriate method, you should be aware of the rules for collecting plants.

When to collect?

Basil is suitable for drying, collected at the very beginning of the flowering period. You can use the flowers of the plant or the leaves. It is allowed to dry any kind of basil, but it is important to consider that their tastes and aromas will differ from the classic type.

How to dry in the oven?

It is necessary to dry the plant in the oven at a temperature of 35 degrees. You can leave the greens in the oven with the petioles or separately. You can pull out the spice after 4-5 hours.

In the electric dryer

The fastest drying plant allows you to get the finished product within 5 minutes. It is enough to put the greens in the electric dryer for this time and turn on the heating power of 700 W. The dried leaves should be taken out very carefully, as they get very hot during processing.

Naturally

To dry greens without mechanical impact, you can hang small bunches with leaves down in a dark room with good ventilation and high temperature. Periodically shake the basil to dry evenly.

Storage

If you need to save dry basil, you can put it in earthenware or glassware. Subject to tightness, the spice will retain its flavor and aroma for 3-4 years.To extend the shelf life, it is recommended to place containers with herbs in a dark place and periodically check the spice for mold and insects.

Application

The rich chemical composition of the plant expands the possibilities of its use in everyday life. Basil is used in medicine, cosmetics, cooking and other industries.

For women

Cosmetic products using basil leaves are very popular among women. The preparations have antioxidant properties and improve skin condition. The infusion of the plant and the oil based on it help fight wrinkles, get rid of warts, and reduce hair breakage.

For PMS

Characteristics of the plant relieve women of pain before menstruation and have a positive effect on immunity. The leaves of the spice are a source of iron, which actively leaves the body with blood loss and cleanses it.

For cystitis

Decoction of greens for cystitis reduces pain from inflammation and reduces the number of unpleasant urination. To prepare the solution, it is enough to mix 1 tablespoon of basil leaves and 200 ml of water, cook over low heat for 7-10 minutes, strain and consume three times a day.

Slimming

When following a diet to lose weight, it is recommended to consume basil seeds. The spice acts as a natural absorbent and removes toxins, cholesterol, and toxins from the body.

For men

Modern medicine confirms that the benefits of the plant affect men's he alth. The inclusion of basil in the diet on an ongoing basis has a positive effect on potency and enhances sexual desire.

In folk medicine

Useful characteristics of dried basil are widely used in folk therapy. Healing decoctions, infusions and balms are prepared from the leaves. In practice, the plant helps to cure a number of diseases.

For dry cough

To combat dry cough, it is recommended to brew tea based on basil. By consuming the infusion after meals, it will be possible to increase tone, reduce pain from an upper respiratory tract infection and relieve irritation in the throat.

When weakening tooth enamel and gums

A number of components that make up the greens help strengthen tooth enamel and protect gums from ulcers. The plant kills germs in the mouth and eliminates tartar.

For kidney stones

Suffering from kidney stones, it is recommended to take the juice of the plant mixed with honey daily. Use for six months activates the excretion of stones and stabilizes the tone.

To strengthen vision

The presence of vitamin A in greens prevents visual impairment and partially eliminates myopia. The use of basil is especially useful for strengthening vision in childhood.

When stressed

Riboflavin and rutin in the composition of the plant restore the functioning of the nervous system. Thanks to this, a person is less exposed to stress and nervous breakdowns. Basil tea has a calming and relaxing effect on a person.

From heaviness in the stomach and problems with the gastrointestinal tract

If you experience pain in the stomach, it is recommended to brew 1.5 teaspoons in 250 ml of boiling water. The filtered infusion should be drunk 2 cups daily. A weekly course helps to cleanse the body and eliminate problems with the gastrointestinal tract.

For immunity

Medicinal plant with frequent use increases immunity. Useful components of basil strengthen the body and promote recovery after major operations. Regular consumption of greens gives strength and energy.

For rheumatism

Decoctions based on dried basil reduce muscle and joint pain. The plant has an antiseptic and irritating effect on painful areas. For arthritis and rheumatism, ointments and creams containing greens help.

Cooking

Fresh or dried basil leaves are especially valued in the culinary field. The aromatic and taste characteristics of the spice complement meat and fish dishes, salads and snacks. The plant gives dishes a spicy flavor that combines bitterness and astringency.

Magical Properties

According to many beliefs, basil has magical properties and attracts love, prosperity and good luck to the house. The plant maintains a peaceful environment, prevents conflict situations, protects the house from ill-wishers.

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