All parts of the flower, leaves and stems are edible; although some might find the camphor scent too strong for use in the kitchen, the herb reportedly yields a tasty pesto with a "rich, mellow flavor" and can be used as a seasoning in soups and salads, particularly those featuring tomato, green beans, chicken, etc.
- What are the health benefits of basil leaves?
- Can you eat purple basil leaves?
- How do you prune African blue basil?
- Is purple basil poisonous?
What are the health benefits of basil leaves?
Essential oils in basil, including eugenol, linalool, and citronellol, can help to fight inflammation in the body. These anti-inflammatory properties can help to lower the risk of inflammatory conditions such as arthritis. heart disease, and bowel issues.
Can you eat purple basil leaves?
Purple Basil leaves have a beautiful, coppery glow and clove-like, slightly spicy flavour. Use them in salads, for pesto or preserved in oils and vinegars.
How do you prune African blue basil?
Pruning and Maintenance
Remove dead flowers and cut stems right above leaves. Cut back tall plants to help thin out thick bushes. At the end of the season, remove all dead foliage and clean up debris from around plants. Discard and do not compost diseased parts of the plant.
Is purple basil poisonous?
Basil flowers, like the rest of the plant, are considered to be non-toxic to domesticated animals such as dogs, cats and horses under normal circumstances. Basil flowers and leaves do contain plant compounds that can be harmful to their digestive systems when consumed in mass quantities, though.